1
Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
2
Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
Abstract
Traditional animal husbandry in various regions of Iran is based on the interaction between humans, livestock, and the environment, and the indigenous knowledge of shepherds plays a significant role in the sustainability of these systems. Among these, the sheepdog, as a key element of flock management, holds special importance in protecting livestock, reducing conflict with wild predators, and ensuring the continuity of shepherds' livelihoods. This research, with the aim of explaining the roles, keeping methods, and beliefs associated with sheepdogs, was conducted using a qualitative approach within the framework of ethnography in Ramian County. The data for this research were collected through semi-structured interviews with Galeshi people, shepherds, and local experts, field observation, and recording of indigenous narratives. The results indicate that the sheepdog is considered more than just a protective tool; it is part of the indigenous knowledge system and the functional structure of traditional animal husbandry. The multiple functions of the dog in protecting livestock, transferring training knowledge, and shaping the cultural identity of shepherds demonstrate its role in the sustainability of the Galeshi livelihood. Nevertheless, social and economic changes are transforming the traditional position of the sheepdog.
samiei,M , forouzeh,M and Barani,H . (2026). The Role of Herding Dogs in the Traditional Pastoral System (Case Study: Ramian County, Golestan Province). (e21581). Indigenous Knowledge of Iran, (), e21581 doi: 10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
MLA
samiei,M , , forouzeh,M , and Barani,H . "The Role of Herding Dogs in the Traditional Pastoral System (Case Study: Ramian County, Golestan Province)" .e21581 , Indigenous Knowledge of Iran, , , 2026, e21581. doi: 10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
HARVARD
samiei M, forouzeh M, Barani H. (2026). 'The Role of Herding Dogs in the Traditional Pastoral System (Case Study: Ramian County, Golestan Province)', Indigenous Knowledge of Iran, (), e21581. doi: 10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
CHICAGO
M samiei, M forouzeh and H Barani, "The Role of Herding Dogs in the Traditional Pastoral System (Case Study: Ramian County, Golestan Province)," Indigenous Knowledge of Iran, (2026): e21581, doi: 10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
VANCOUVER
samiei M, forouzeh M, Barani H. The Role of Herding Dogs in the Traditional Pastoral System (Case Study: Ramian County, Golestan Province). Indigenous Knowledge of Iran. 2026;():e21581 (In Persian). doi: 10.22054/qjik.2026.91983.1494
