Like other livestock in the Rocky Mountains, sheep need protection
from predators, such as coyotes and wolves. That's where
guardian dogs come in. Guardian dogs help ranchers protect their
flocks. But they are not the typical herding dogs, and they are not
native to the region. The breeds were imported from Europe, where
they have been guarding livestock for thousands of years. As
puppies, they are placed in fleece and learn to identify with the
small of sheep. It isn't long before they meet their first
sheep and mingle with the flock. With little training, the dogs
instinctively know that their job is to keep a lookout for danger,
and now and then do some baby-sitting. Cat Urbigkit's engaging
photo essay shows how guardian dogs and sheep form a bond that
lasts throughout the dogs' life.
