Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Grand Korumak?
The Grand Korumak is a purpose-bred livestock guardian dog developed to combine reliable predator protection with emotional stability, boundary awareness, and strong stock-bonding instincts. The breed is being intentionally shaped through the Grand Korumak Association to produce dogs that remain close to their livestock, integrate well into farm life, and provide dependable guardian service.
What makes your Grand Korumaks different?
Our program focuses on raising Grand Korumaks inside functioning family homesteads.
We are intentionally developing dogs that can live in three vital roles at once:
• Serious livestock guardians
• Respectful farm dogs
• Safe, bonded family companions
This creates dogs that are emotionally sound, naturally protective, and deeply integrated into real farm and family life.
Are Grand Korumaks good with children?
Yes. While any dog can be dangerous, we intentionally select and raise for calm, steady temperaments. Our dogs are raised around children, livestock, visitors, and daily farm activity. They are expected to be respectful, patient, and trustworthy — while still maintaining strong guardian instincts. However, children must also be trained to respect this large animal.
What types of livestock do they work with?
Our dogs are raised and bonded around a wide variety of livestock, including:
Poultry
Goats
Sheep
Horses
Cattle
Pigs
This prepares them to adapt smoothly to diverse homestead and farm systems.
Are they aggressive?
No. Grand Korumaks are not bred for aggression. They are bred for discernment — the ability to remain calm, assess situations clearly, and respond appropriately only when necessary.
Do they roam?
Grand Korumaks are intentionally selected for strong “stay with their stock” instincts. Properly bonded dogs naturally remain close to their animals and property rather than roaming. We do, however, recommend solid fencing OR GPS fencings systems. We also encourage boundary training with young pups! We are more than happy to assist in this.
How are puppies raised?
Newborn puppies currently are started in our home - this is primarily due to lack of a true barn space that would be safe for sure fragile puppies. However, puppies are raised inside active homestead environments, exposed daily to livestock, children, routine chores, and normal household life. This creates emotionally stable dogs that transition smoothly into real-world farm settings. We begin to introduce puppies to the outside world & livestock after their first round of shots. And continue to transition them to full-time guardian life outdoors over the course of the following weeks!
Can Grand Korumaks live in the house?
Yes — when appropriate. Many of our dogs naturally move between home spaces and livestock areas. They are not kennel dogs. They are bred to integrate into daily life while maintaining strong guardian instincts.
What health testing do you perform?
We believe long-term guardian success begins with sound genetics and structural integrity.
All of our breeding dogs receive:
Embark DNA health screening to identify genetic risks and guide responsible breeding decisions
Hip evaluation through either PennHIP analysis or diagnostic hip X-rays reviewed by a qualified veterinarian
These screenings help ensure we are breeding dogs with the structural soundness and genetic stability needed for demanding, long-term working lives.
You may notice that we do not currently utilize OFA evaluations. OFA testing is designed primarily around established purebred registries. Because the Grand Korumak is a developing working breed with a diverse foundational gene pool, we rely on modern DNA screening and veterinarian-reviewed structural diagnostics that provide clearer, more relevant data for our program at this stage of development.
What kind of homes are you looking for?
We place puppies into homes that:
Have real livestock and property to guard
Are committed to long-term stewardship
Are willing to learn proper LGD management
Value temperament, stability, and ethical ownership
Do you offer support after placement?
ABSOLUTELY! We provide ongoing guidance, education, and support throughout your dog’s life. Our goal is long-term success — not just placement. Never hesitate to reach out. A successful pairing of family & guardian is our absolute top priority!
Are your dogs registered?
Yes. Our dogs are registered through the Grand Korumak Association and follow all breed health testing and ethical breeding standards.
Do you ship puppies?
We prefer personal pickup whenever possible so we can meet families, review management expectations, and ensure a good match. Transport options may be discussed case by case.
How do I apply for a puppy?
We use an application process to ensure each puppy is placed into a prepared, appropriate environment. This protects the dog, the livestock, and the success of both. Please reach out via our waitlist or e-mail to discuss if a Guardians of Basilea puppy would be right for you!
