Strengthening livestock protection in Austria

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By the end of May, a further 14 Livestock guarding dogs will be officially certified by the Austrian Bear Wolf Lynx Center. The dogs have successfully passed their test in accordance with the new certification guidelines developed as part of the European LIFEstockProtect project.

The certification confirms that each dog has demonstrated outstanding performance in the following areas:

• Effective and reliable protection against large predators such as wolves and bears
• Stable nature for secure integration into the herd and daily handling by the shepherds
• Close connection to the Livestock, so that the natural protective instinct takes effect independently, without human guidance
• Good health and physical fitness for year-round use in alpine and low-lying grazing areas

Following the first certifications in 2024, the number of certified Livestock guarding dogs in Austria has now risen to almost 30 animals that are ready for practical use livestock protection. This means that livestock owners have an increasing number of tested and reliable dogs at their disposal, which make a decisive contribution to safety on pastures.

Another important step forward: these certified dogs not only meet the practical requirements, but also the specifications of the 2nd Austrian Animal Husbandry Ordinance. This makes it clear that they no longer require a dog kennel and can be funded as a herd protection measure under the ÖPUL program. This makes it much easier to use these animals in pasture farming and provides additional support for the farms.

The growing number of certified Livestock guarding dogs shows the continuous progress we are achieving together with breeders, shepherds and experts in the regions. It is a clear sign that well-implemented herd protection measures have long since become a central element for the coexistence of grazing animals and wildlife.

Our special thanks go to everyone involved – from the dedicated dog handlers to the certification team at the Austrian Center – for their tireless efforts and their valuable contribution to safe pastures.

Stay tuned – we will soon be sharing impressions and results from the certification days.