Assessing Gaddi dogs as a non-lethal predator deterrent in the north-western Himalayan transhumant pastoralism

Abstract

The Gaddi dog, traditionally employed as a Livestock Guard Dog by Gaddi nomads in Himachal Pradesh, India, plays a vital role in safeguarding livestock during seasonal migration. Managing approximately 70% of the state's sheep and goat population, the Gaddis face significant wildlife threats, including bears (Ursidae), snow leopards (Panthera uncia), and wolves (Canis lupus), resulting in considerable livestock losses. This study based on, data collected from 21 flocks (average sizes: 115 ± 91.90; range: 40–300 sheep and 95 ± 51.48: 20–200 goats) using structured questionnaires, assesses the behavioral traits and effectiveness of Gaddi dogs compared to non-Gaddi breeds. Analytical methods included frequency count, percentages, Likert scale, Garrett’s ranking, and Mann-Whitney U test to evaluate and compare the performance of both dog types. Findings revealed that approximately one-third of shepherds reported an increase in wildlife attacks over the past decade, with average losses of 7.31 ± 5.53 (range: 2–26) due to predation and 4.74 ± 6.40 (range: 1–30) for non-predation. Gaddi dogs demonstrated superior effectiveness in reducing livestock losses, with 23.81% of respondents reporting no losses when employing Gaddi dogs. Statistical analyses indicated Gaddi dogs outperformed non-Gaddi dogs in key behavioral attributes, including attentiveness, trustworthiness, protectiveness, and longevity, with notable differences in mean scores (p<0.05). Despite their effectiveness in reducing predation and livestock rustling, certain challenges persist, incuding high rearing costs and undesirable behaviors such as chasing vehicles and wildlife. Nevertheless, Gaddi dogs emerged as the most effective non-lethal strategy for livestock protection, contributing to reduced human-wildlife conflict and supporting conservation efforts.