In Italy and several European countries, public tenders are periodically published for the purchase of livestock guarding dogs, designed to support farmers, shepherds, and ranchers in preventing predation.
These tenders may include a partial or full contribution to the cost of the dog, thus encouraging the adoption of sustainable protection methods recognized by local authorities.

Why does this funding exist?

The growing need to protect livestock—sheep, goats, poultry, cattle, alpacas, and donkeys—in a non-invasive manner has led many regions and institutions to encourage the use of certified livestock guarding dogs.
Working dogs, in fact, represent an effective and wildlife-friendly solution, reducing attacks by wolves, foxes, birds of prey, stray dogs, and other predators.

Regional, national, and international tenders

The most common measures include:

• Regional tenders for farms, shepherds, and breeders
• National grants dedicated to preventing damage from wildlife
• European and cross-border funding, as part of agricultural and environmental programs
• Foreign co-financing projects, implemented in countries where pastoralism is strongly protected

Each tender has specific criteria, but almost all require the purchase of pedigreed livestock guarding dogs from recognized breeders and capable of issuing proper invoices.

Support from Pastore Transumante

Pastore Transumante, as a certified working dog breeder, supports breeders, farmers, and shepherds who wish to participate in tenders or apply for funding to purchase livestock guarding dogs.

In most cases, access to these grants requires proof of purchase of eligible breeds—such as the Maremma Sheepdog—registered in the studbook (with pedigree) and originating from selected working lines at authorized breeders. Pastore Transumante guarantees full compliance with these requirements, offering concrete support for accessing funding intended to improve coexistence with wildlife.

We offer a comprehensive service that includes:

• Support in collecting and preparing the necessary documentation
• Clear guidance on the requirements for tenders
• Guardian dogs with ENCI/FCI pedigrees, microchip, and European passport
• Invoicing valid for application submission and final reporting
• Personalized advice in choosing the puppy best suited to the farm's needs

Our goal is to accompany you every step of the way: from dog selection to the proper handling of the final documentation required by the funded project, ensuring a simple, transparent, and effective process.

A sustainable and recognized choice

Participating in a tender for the purchase of guardian dogs means:

• Naturally improving livestock safety
• Reducing the risk of predation
• Benefiting from official financial support
• Promoting harmonious and responsible land management

Certified guardian dogs are a fundamental tool for modern and sustainable livestock farming, capable of integrating with the surrounding environment.