Well, it seems that Dixie still views the lambs as being potential playmates. We've discovered her chasing them and even mouthing their back ends. Of course since the ewes are so skittish they run right away, which makes the lambs run, which encourages Dixie. None of them will turn around and tell her off - if they would, she would back off. When she tries to engage the alpacas, if they are not in the mood to play they either spit at her or kick at her and she backs right off.
But the lambs run. So we've had to go back to tying her up when we are not with her. She stays under the lean-to and since the hay feeder is under there also, the rest of the animals hang out there.
When we are working around the barn or the pasture she is free to run and we can correct her if she gets too physical with the sheep. Otherwise she has to hang out quietly and let them come to her.
We are anxious not to rush the training so that she doesn't develop bad habits. But she is a loveable, awesome dog, who is going to be a great part of the barn!
But the lambs run. So we've had to go back to tying her up when we are not with her. She stays under the lean-to and since the hay feeder is under there also, the rest of the animals hang out there.
When we are working around the barn or the pasture she is free to run and we can correct her if she gets too physical with the sheep. Otherwise she has to hang out quietly and let them come to her.
We are anxious not to rush the training so that she doesn't develop bad habits. But she is a loveable, awesome dog, who is going to be a great part of the barn!
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