When it comes to adopting a new dog, every dog owner will look for something different in their dog. Because of this, there are many breeds to consider. Some people also look for protective dog breeds that can protect them and their property, but is the Great Pyrenees one of those breeds?
Yes, Great Pyrenees dogs are naturally protective, which is part of their instinct. Because these dogs were bred to guard, it is part of their instinct to want to protect their loved ones and their land and territory from potential strangers and threats.
However, there is much more to know about Great Pyrenees dogs and their protective instinct, so be sure to read until the end to avoid missing anything!
Are the Great Pyrenees Protective?
The Great Pyrenees (also referred to as Pyrs) dog breed was initially bred to work independently of its owner and guarded the livestock. They are instinctively protective dogs. Most families today enjoy having the Great Pyrenees as a family member, bringing along his heritage of being protective.
At What Age Do Great Pyrenees Start Guarding?
As previously mentioned, guarding is something the Great Pyrenees possess naturally. Most Pyrs will begin guarding and protecting at around six months of age.
Granted, your little dog may not be the best at guarding as a pup because they lack physical and mental maturity. Usually, around 2 to 3 years of age, they are equipped to be effective guardians.
Will the Great Pyrenees Protect Humans?
The short answer is yes. The Great Pyrenees make an excellent guard dog for a family. They guard and protect every animal (including humans) that they adopt into their flock and are fiercely loyal to that flock.
His natural instinct to protect results in your Pyrs feeling responsible for you and the entire family.
Are They Dangerous Around Children?
As with any breed of dog, small children need supervision to protect themselves and their dog. A Great Pyrenees dog is gentle and affectionate with children. Since it is a large breed that can weigh around one hundred pounds, it can accidentally harm a small child due to its large size.
Also, a very young child may not have the proper skills yet for interacting with your Pyrs and may pull on their ears or tails.
Pyrs are also known for having patience which is a quality that pairs very well with children.
Can I let my children play with my Great Pyrenees?
Again, until your child is mature enough to know how to behave with your Great Pyrenees, it is best to supervise them. However, let your Pyrs and your children interact with each other as much as possible.
This will enable your dog to become accustomed to your child’s habits and mannerisms and will also build your child’s confidence around your dog.
The Great Pyrenees possess a laid-back energy without becoming overly excited and playing rough with your children.
This personality trait pairs perfectly with children and does not scare your child or overwhelm them.
How are the Great Pyrenees with Strangers and Visitors?
Pyrs are not aggressive dogs by nature, especially when socialized and managed correctly. They are typically a kind and gentle dog breed. Often your Great Pyrenees will look to you and the family for cues on how they should view any strangers or visitors.
If you appear anxious and exhibit changes in your breathing pattern, your Pyrs will take notice.
It will take some training on your part with your Pyrs to show that not all people that come to the door are someone there to inflict harm.
Training with command words is helpful in this regard, as you can state a word command to let your dog know that the visitor is not a threat.
Although they may not be completely comfortable in the presence of a stranger, they do not automatically turn to aggression as soon as someone walks through the door.
Are the Great Pyrenees a Good Guard Dog?
Yes, the Great Pyrenees loves to guard, protect, and demonstrate immense loyalty. They do not have to be trained to be guardians, as this is instinctive in their nature. The Pyrs is a territorial guard dog and will work to keep his domain free from danger.
Do the Great Pyrenees like People and Other Animals?
The Great Pyrenees love people and make an excellent addition to the family. They display affection for children and form a deep connection with those within the home (or their flock). Many Pyrs love to be close to their owners to show their affection or to give themselves relief when anxious.
If other animals already live in the home, there usually is not an issue of bringing in a Pyrs. Your Great Pyrenees will consider these other pets as part of the family and will embrace them as another addition to their flock.
However, the reverse can be a little more challenging if you introduce a new family pet to the existing family, which includes your Great Pyrenees. Keep in mind that any aggression often stems from their guarding instinct.
A gradual introduction of a new animal, whether a dog or a cat, needs to be done calmly and slowly. Keeping a barrier between them at first and then gradually progressing to more one-on-one time as their tolerance and acceptance grows.
Should I get two Dogs if One is Protective of his Home and Space?
If you are looking to have 2 Great Pyrenees, you will be happy to know that most Pyrs tend to enjoy the company and companionship of other Pyrs. However, they also tend to have a good relationship with other dog breeds.
A lot will depend on the personality of your Pyrenees and how you introduce them to the other dog. Some have noted that if you decide to own multiple Pyrenees dogs, one of each sex is more inclined to get along.
How does Great Pyrenees Protect its Territory?
Being instinctively protective, Great Pyrenees will patrol the boundaries of their territory, checking for any potential danger. It is good to have definite boundaries, such as a perimeter fence.
You don’t want to be leaving it to your dog to determine the boundaries himself.
Although the Great Pyrenees is not quick to attack or show aggression, they are quick to impose their size and voice if required. Again, socialization is essential to keep them from barking or snapping at every unexpected human they encounter.
Can you Trust this breed with Children?
Yes, Great Pyrenees are a gentle and affectionate breed towards children and greatly tolerate a child’s exciting nature. Your Pyrs will grow into a large dog so supervising your small children is necessary.
A young toddler may not intentionally do something that could antagonize your dog. Likewise, your Great Pyrenees body mass could knock over a small child unintentionally.
Will the Great Pyrenees bite?
Owners of the breed know that playtime can turn into a habit of biting and needs to be stopped immediately. This highlights the need for your puppy to have proper training and socialization.
Although the Great Pyrenees breed is relaxed and calm, they rarely bite. Biting only happens if they are severely provoked and threatened.
Are Great Pyrenees Dogs Aggressive?
The Great Pyrenees is not usually an aggressive breed but rather a caring and affectionate dog. The aggression that any Pyrs may exhibit can be a combination of genetics, training, and socialization.
Furthermore, the puppy’s family history can also give clues about the type of temperament your puppy has. Keep in mind, however, that this breed can be aggressive at times. The following scenarios demonstrate when the Great Pyrenees might be a little feisty towards others:
You might also like – The Ultimate Great Pyrenees Guide – All Questions Answered!
What kind of Things Should I look out for Before Buying a Great Pyrenees?
Inquire about parental behavioral traits when buying the Great Pyrenees from a breeder to check for genetic aggression.
Check the breeder’s reputation and whether socialization and training have already begun. These are both crucial in the Great Pyrenees’ early development.
