Livestock Guarding Dogs – Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict

CCF’s Livestock Guarding Dog (LGD) Programme continues to grow from strength to strength, helping farmers protect their livestock and live peacefully alongside predators. The programme has become a nationwide success story in Namibia, with demand from farmers so high that the waiting list now extends two to three years.

As of 30 June 2025, CCF has placed 798 guarding dogs with farmers across Namibia and beyond – each one playing a vital role in preventing livestock losses and reducing human-wildlife conflict. Many farmers have reported dramatic drops in predation thanks to their dogs, and satisfaction with the programme remains extremely high.

To meet growing demand, several young breeding dogs reached maturity in 2024 and 2025, increasing CCF’s breeding capacity. Two new male breeding dogs from Germany, were also introduced to strengthen the bloodline.

The programme’s mixed-breed initiative, designed to shorten the waiting list and make guarding dogs accessible to more farmers, resumed in 2025 after a temporary pause due to a parvovirus outbreak. A new litter of five puppies joined the programme in June, and the team continues to partner with the SPCA to source suitable dogs and promote responsible animal management.

All puppies are raised at CCF with livestock to ensure they bond and learn protective behaviours before being placed on farms. Each placement includes farmer training, farm assessments, and regular follow-up visits to monitor health and success in the field.

The LGD team also maintains a robust preventative health programme, with every dog receiving monthly parasite control, vaccinations, and health checks.