Throughout my decades in rescue, I’ve seen a great deal of people interested in the Great Pyrenees breed. Some simply want a pet, while others need a livestock guardians dog (aka: “working dog” or “LGD”).  This is expected, as they are, indeed, livestock guardians who are known for their incredible, innate abilities to protect. Meanwhile, they’re also stunning, gentle and kind pets who are adored by many families across the globe. Having such a diverse disposition that remains steadfast in every aspect, it’s no wonder they’re sought after with such desire. However, what’s almost always overlooked is that while there is a solid standard in personality, there’s also a variance in the dogs due to excessive, unnecessary and irrational breeding (as well as previous ownership). What needs to be recognized and fully understood is the dog’s history, current status, and the individual dog itself.

Let me be frank: You cannot selfishly expect a Great Pyrenees to flawlessly fall into the category of pet or working dog, just as you can’t expect a Retriever to know how to instantly become an assistance canine despite the fact that they excel in it. To fully grasp this concept, lets look at a brief overview of the Great Pyrenees.

The Great Pyrenees breed was (in a nutshell) bred to protect the flocks in the Pyrenees Mountains. To be clear, THEY ARE NOT HERDING DOGS. They are guardians – huge difference. Herding dogs are Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Corgis, Collies, etc, and they actually herd the flocks to and fro. Great Pyrenees PROTECT against predators by warning of their presence, or if absolutely necessary, battling them. Most often fights are not necessary due to the demanding appearance, fierce bark and attitude of the dog – in fact, this is preferred, for any fight with a predator is dangerous for one or the other animal. Generally, however, the predator will note the guardian and move along.

A flock’s life depends heavily on the guardians, and the dogs take their work very seriously. They know they are the only thing between life and death. They understand that the flocks aren’t able to defend themselves, and they are fine tuned in the fact that the predators are cunning and untrustworthy. As a result, they will do whatever necessary to prevent demise. Not to mention, they don’t like something being arrogant enough to think they’re going to steal or kill from something for which they feel responsible.

They’re not good at their jobs…they’re phenomenal. Whether a family or a flock, they are fearless and will fight to the death, be it the predator or their own. Let me STRESS, however, that those that work in the field cannot do everything themselves. It’s IMPERATIVE to know that dogs who are expected to be a livestock guardian NEED ALLIES to help them…OTHER livestock guardians. I don’t care how big and bad a dog (or human is), no individual can handle it all. When there are multiple animals attacking, regardless of size, strength, experience, inner fight…several coyotes, wolves, etc at once can’t be dominated by one dog. So ALWAYS have at least 2, preferably at least 3 LGDs to help in case of an attack. It’s needless and selfish to think that just one dog should bear the weight of it all.

As a pet they are equally as protective, despite what may seem apparent. Regardless of how docile, silly, “seemingly dumb” a dog may be, they have the instinct and desire to protect, and they will intervene if necessary. This doesn’t mean that as a pet you have to worry about the breed attacking at random or unnecessarily. That’s one reason I looked at the breed for a pet many years ago. They are incredibly intelligent, despite what their independent, stubborn ways may wrongfully suggest. Their keen ability to determine right from wrong, determine when to act and when to hold back, and determine when to be kind and when to act as a guardian is astonishing. Many have been astounded by their sweet, innocent little dork’s ability to turn into Cerberus.

So all of that says what? They are guardians. They’re fierce protectors and that will never subside. Dispositions vary, sure, but it’s in the heart and the mind, and it’s strong. However, they are also gentle, kind, compassionate, and superior pets that deserve respect and love, and ones that will devote their lives to you.

DESPITE:  RESEARCH and fully understand what this breed, and any guardian breed, is all about so that you can feel comfortable and knowledgeable about their idiosyncrasies (ex: gender aggression, barking, roaming, etc).

For the soundest placement into your home and family, adopt from a Great Pyrenees rescue. They will offer you the best match or even referrals if they don’t have a dog that suits your needs. For a list of GP rescues by state, click here:  Great Pyrenees Rescues by state