From Whelping Box to Pasture: The Start of a Guardian's Journey
From Whelping Box to Pasture: The Start of a Guardian's Journey
Whelping season is one of the most exciting (and exhausting) times on our farm. It’s when our working Livestock Guardian Dogs bring new life into the world — and we begin raising the next generation of protectors for goats, chickens, and everything in between.
What is Whelping?
Whelping is the process of a mother dog (dam) giving birth. For Livestock Guardian Dogs like our Great Pyrenees, this moment is more than just cute puppies — it's the beginning of their lifelong bond with the animals they’ll protect.
Our Setup for a Calm and Safe Whelping
We prep a quiet, insulated whelping area away from the hustle of the barnyard but close enough that the dam can still hear and smell her herd. This balance is key — it reduces stress but keeps the bond strong.
Our whelping box includes:
- A raised bed with clean, soft bedding
- Infrared heating (in colder months)
- Dim lighting and minimal foot traffic
- 24/7 observation, especially near the due date
Puppy Care in the First Few Weeks
The first 2–3 weeks are all about nursing, warmth, and rest. We weigh pups daily, monitor suckling behavior, and ensure mom is hydrated and fed high-protein food.
At about 3 weeks, we begin introducing:
- Goat scent from worn collars or fresh bedding
- Background barn sounds (recorded or nearby)
- Gentle human handling for trust-building
When Do They Start "Working"?
By 5–6 weeks, we begin short, supervised visits to the goat pen or chicken coop. We introduce them to livestock in calm, scent-based ways — not play or chase.
By 10–12 weeks, they’re ready for longer supervised periods outdoors with their future herd.
Why It Matters
A well-whelped and properly raised LGD is calmer, more bonded, and more effective. It’s not just about instinct — it’s about experience from day one.
📸 Coming soon: a behind-the-scenes look at our current litter!
#GreatPyrenees #LGD #LivestockGuardian #Whelping #TheHudstead
