Mini guard donkey

[KSZR]

Would a mini donkey work as a sheep guard?  He is male and intact.  Thanks for any help.

[EmsoffLambs]

I would not use an intact jack. They are known to be aggressive with sheep. Not would I use a mini donkey if you have any real predator threats. They are at risk themselves of being attacked by buying dogs or predators.  A standard size female or gelding donkey can be relatively effective,  but for serious predator threats, livestock guardian dogs are most effective.

[KSZR]

Thanks Crystal.  Our main threat is dogs.  Haven't had a problem for several years but you never know.  A guard dog would be great but when the ewes are out on pasture or in more than one location a dog seems more complicated.

[EmsoffLambs]

I was just reading on another forum of Jack donkeys killing baby lambs. Probably a half dozen different people who have had this occur. I used a female standard donkey with success for many years, so I will confirm that they are less complicated than dogs. Dogs do require more forethought and flexibility.  However, their effectiveness cannot be compared. They way we looked at it, is our sheep are very valuable.  The death of a single lamb would cost us hundreds of dollars. Or more. A pack of coyotes,  stray dogs or a single mountain lion can kill a dozen sheep in a night. I hear so many say, "We never had problems with predators before." And then they have an attack and are devastated, financially and emotionally.