Livestock Guardian Dogs, often called LGDs, are breeds developed to live with and protect livestock from predators. Unlike herding dogs, their job is not to move animals from place to place. Their instinct is to stay with the animals they guard, watch their surroundings, and respond when something threatens the flock or herd.
LGD breeds developed across Europe and Asia over many centuries and include Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherds, Kangals, Maremma Sheepdogs, and others. Their independence, size, confidence, and protective instincts make them excellent working dogs, but those same traits also mean they need owners who understand the special needs of guardian breeds.