The government will this year spend SFr830,000 ($724,195) on protecting flocks - slightly more than last year – with the bulk of the money invested in sheep dogs.

Over the past few years, the number of wolves in Switzerland has increased. In 2009, 11 were identified in 11 different cantons. This summer, there are expected to be 15 to 20 wolves in the country, according to the Federal Environment Office.

The Swiss Wolf Project, which was created in 2008 so as to facilitate the long-term survival of the wolf in the country, is to be continued.

Thomas Briner, from the hunting section of the Environment Office, said that only wolves, which have killed at least 25 sheep in a month and 35 in four months will be put down.

To prevent extensive damage, the government gives subsidies to sheep farmers, so that they can take measures to protect their flocks.

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