![]() There are occasions when spiked collars are not always advisable, especially when new or younger dogs are introduced to the pack. Some shepherds also apply them to dogs that have passed their peak age and fitness, giving them extra protection and time to deal with a predator confrontation. The more dominant dogs within the pack that most frequently head out to confront approaching predators are good candidates for a spiked collar because they are most at risk of injury and death. These collars will also give LGD's more confidence when a confrontation with wolves becomes unavoidable. The use of spiked collars often depends on the local predator burden, for example in areas where meadow grazing falls within the territory of an established wolf pack. The spiked collar only slows the wolf down, giving more time for the other dogs or shepherd to support it. The wolf will simply change it's approach, for example attacking the chest or abdomen. Attacking the neck and throat is the quickest and easiest way for a wolf to dispatch a dog, but just because there's a spiked collar present does not deter the wolf. But will wearing such a collar negate the advantage the wolf has over the dog? The simple answer is no. Shepherds may apply a spiked collar if facing these kinds of attacks on a regular basis. The wolves know they can can handle LGD's better if they split them up, so added danger arises when dogs find themselves isolated in the melee. It's a life and death power struggle that involves intelligence and bravery. A cohesive and experienced pack of LGD's will be aware of such tactics and leave some dogs behind to counter this threat, while others chase away the single wolf. This gives the rest of the wolf pack the opportunity to enter the flock or herd. ![]() Initially a single wolf may approach the sheepfold drawing the dogs away from the livestock. Wolves can sow confusion amongst the dogs with multifaceted attacks. However, deterring a wolf pack is something entirely different, more dangerous and more complicated to repel. When a pack of LGD's are faced with a lone wolf scouting new territory, looking for a quick and easy meal, deterring a single individual is more easily managed because the dog's strength is in their numbers. They also crop ears because they get torn, infected and painful in hierarchy fights between LGD's in the same pack or with rival dogs from other packs. This also explains why so many shepherds crop their dog's ears, to prevent them being used as levers in this way. One wolf grabs a dog by it's ear, pulling it back whilst simultaneously turning the head to expose the throat for a second wolf to attack. I have heard several shepherds describe a specific technique used by wolves working in pairs to kill LGD's. The dog is most vulnerable around the neck and throat and this vulnerability is taken advantage of by the wolf which has a superior bite force, enabled by powerful muscles around it's jaw and neck. It is well understood that in a one on one confrontation a dog in most circumstances is no match for a wolf.
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