Dogs interaction with horses/goats

Question
I have a difficult situation.  We live on 140 acres with my mother-in-law at one end and we are on the other side.  Her husband died last year and I went out and found her a 10 yr old yellow lab neuter male.  He has become very close to her.  Now the rub, he likes to chase the cattle and our horses which she has tried to tell him know.  A couple of days ago my 2 yrs filly came home with puncture wounds on and around the ear.  They clearly look as if a large dog bit her. I am also worried that he might go after my goats while they are out (only when I am at home).  How can we break him of chasing the livestock?  I don't want to worry my 87yr old mother-in-law but something has to be done.

Thank you so much for taking the time to help.

Cheryl

Answer
This is most likely going to be a training situation. If you have someone available locally that trains, competes or teaches people about training herding dogs, that would be a great local resource for you to start with.

Most important thing to remember is that dogs like to chase things, cats, horses, cattle, sheep, goats, squirrels, pretty much anything that moves.

The most likely success you will have with this dog is to teach him what is and isn't acceptable behavior. This will likely include the dog being indoors or in a fenced area when you are not able to be out teaching him what is acceptable behavior for you and your animals.


Good Luck.
http://www.OutlawChinooks.com


Links:
http://dog-partnership.co.uk/livestock.htm
http://www.canineconcepts.co.uk/ccp51/cc/dog-behaviour/chasing-animals.shtml
http://www.workingaussiesource.com/stockdoglibrary/trainers_answers_cowdogs_arti...