Guardian dogs, donkeys and llamas are among animals used for predator control in goatherds. Dogs are the most historical protectors of sheep and goats and are kept with the goatherd when very young. Unlike herding dogs, these low key, even-tempered dogs, patrol slowly around and among goats, keeping a close eye and nose on their herd. They are ready for interlopers.

Major guard dog breeds registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) are Anatolians (Akhbash, Karabash) originally from Turkey, Great Pyrenees originally from France, Komondor originally from Hungary, and Kuvasz probably dating back to Turkey and Tibet, but its modern origin is from Hungary. All these breeds of dogs are great flock animals and shepherds. 

In the U.S., guardian dogs are used to protect a variety of livestock, both on the open range of the West and the farms of the East. Different breeds are suited for different circumstances. Ranchers and farmers select them carefully to find the dog best suited for their needs. 

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