"Bodyguards": breeds elite dogs that protect sheep and are the only barrier against pumas and wild dogs
Mario Medina from Jesús María breeds elite guard dogs that protect livestock from predators in Argentina.
In Argentina, as the threat of predation on livestock increases and there is a scarcity of protective dogs in the fields, breeder Mario Medina is leading a "silent revolution" by specializing in breeding working lines of the Maremma-Abruzzese Shepherd and the Great Pyrenees Mastiff. These breeds are recognized under the Argentine Sheep Law 25.422. With only one litter annually, of which 80% is sold before birth, he develops dogs that live with the herds 24/7, deterring attacks from foxes, pumas, feral dogs, and cattle rustlers.
Ten years ago, Medina realized that functional lines of protective dogs were lacking in Argentina, prompting him to import working genetics from abroad and professionalize his breeding practices. Today, he holds the only official registrations in the country for these breeds designated for livestock protection, carefully monitoring each dog's development and ensuring they are well-adapted to their protective roles.
The impact of Medina's breeding program is significant for local livestock producers, as it helps to safeguard their herds against increasing predation threats. His work not only enhances the security of sheep and goats but also contributes to stabilizing the livestock economy in Argentina at a time when the challenge of predatory wildlife is particularly acute.