NDSU, UMN Extension to host livestock guardian dogs webinar on April 23

As predator pressure remains a constant challenge for livestock producers, North Dakota State University Extension and University of Minnesota Extension sheep and goat specialists have announced an informative webinar to help protect animals. The webinar, titled “Livestock guardian dogs: Practical insights from the pasture,” will take place on April 23 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

“Livestock guard dogs play an important role in the safety and security of ewes and lambs,” says Travis Hoffman, NDSU and UMN Extension sheep specialist. “Participants will learn from a leading expert on how to use dogs in their operation.”

The webinar will feature guest speaker Janet McNally, owner of Tamarack Lamb & Wool. McNally brings over four decades of sheep-rearing experience, including twenty years of full-time management in a large predator environment near Hinckley, Minnesota.

McNally has utilized guardian dogs since 1982, and her expertise was put to the test after a pack of 23 wolves moved into her neighborhood. She has successfully managed a group of eight to 12 livestock guardian dogs, deterring wolves, bears, bobcats, coyotes and fishers from her flock.

The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required. For more information, visit ndsu.ag/guard-dogs-26.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – April 17, 2026

Source: Travis Hoffman, 701-231-2222, travis.w.hoffman@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu