I was told several times by several different people that Great Pyrenees were the best dog breed for a homestead. And I’m so glad we listened! Pyrs have so many wonderful qualities, but here are our top 5:
ONE
These dogs are unfailingly loyal. I have never had a dog so excited to see me that she cries, snuggles, and collapses in a heap of submission just at my presence. It says so much that they feel so strongly for me (and everyone in our household). Because these dogs stay outside, you would think that they’d become a little wild, but that is far from how they are. They want to be with us, but to do their job. So they stay close to the house and love when we’re with them.
TWO
They will diligently protect their family and environment. And this feels like an understatement. We initially go these dogs to protect our livestock, especially the chickens and ducks. But the aforementioned loyalty character trait means protection is reserved for us as well. They do not take this task lightly. When told to “guard the door,” they will immediately go to the front door and stay there. If we are outside with them, they keep track of where everyone is and make sure they’re safe.
The time of day when they are the busiest is in the middle of the night. Their instinct is to protect, so you can be sure they are fending off predators who are after our birds.
THREE
Great Pyrenees were bred to work, and they work hard! If you see them napping during the day, it’s because they’re storing up their energy for the night shift. It’s unbelievable how much they do at night. Bobcats, racoons, and even panthers have been seen picking off chickens and goats in our area but our girls do not let anything get past them. But sleeping on the job during the day does not stop them from jumping up at the slightest threat to chase it off. They’re pretty amazing!
FOUR
They are extremely intelligent and learn quickly. One thing we taught them as puppies was to “work.” We walked them around our property to check the perimeter a few times each day, giving the command “work” as we went. For these training walks, no play was allowed. When they got off track, they were reminded to “work.” Now perimeter checks are natural for them. They do them out of routine and know when something is off.
“Guard the door” is another command they know well. If one of us is leaving the property and we want the dogs to stay near the house, we tell them to guard the door. They go right where they’re supposed to and stand guard like fluffy, white centuries.
FIVE
Pyrs are surprisingly patient dogs, and aren’t easily bothered. Unless, of course, they sense something that might be a threat to that which they are loyal, an dthen that loyal, protective, hardworking, intelligent dog is ready to take care of business!
