The results of implementing livestock guardian dogs under the LIFE MedWolf Project, in more extensive management systems common in the Beira Interior region, were presented as an oral communication at the International Wolf Symposium, held in Minneapolis (USA) from 11 to 14 October, bringing together specialists from around the world. The presentation focused on the various methods and analyses used to evaluate the effectiveness of the dogs, including damage analysis using a before‑after design, a before‑after/control‑impact design, and comparison with neighbouring farms, as well as behavioural assessment of the dogs and satisfaction of the livestock farmers involved. The main reasons associated with lower dog effectiveness were also identified, such as less experienced producers and reduced supervision of dogs due to the absence of oversight of extensive livestock. To address the constraints found, a list of best practices was presented to optimise the use of livestock guardian dogs in these more extensive production systems.
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