On 20 August 2026, the LIFE Wild Wolf project organised a practical information exchange in Murjāņi, Latvia, where ten hunting dogs were equipped with protective vests and collars designed to reduce the risk and impact of wolf attacks.

The event brought together hunting dog owners, hunters, representatives of the Latvian State Forest Service, the Latvian Hunting Association, the Croatian Hunting Association, FACE and DOGTECH. Participants learned about wolf management in Latvia, the objectives of the LIFE Wild Wolf project, and the development and improvement of protective vests that have already been tested in Croatia and Italy.

The dogs fitted with the equipment included West Siberian Laikas, a Russo-European Laika, a Finnish Spitz, a Slovakian Hound and a Beagle. Several participating owners had previously experienced wolf attacks on their dogs, making their feedback particularly valuable.

Over the coming months, owners will test the equipment during real hunting activities and evaluate its effectiveness, durability, and impact on the dogs’ performance. Both positive and negative results will contribute to the development of guidance on hunting dog protection devices.

By combining practical field testing with hunters’ experience, the LIFE Wild Wolf project aims to identify effective, evidence-based solutions that support coexistence between wolves and people across Europe.