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To those of us who love and own Pyrenean Shepherds, they are wonderful dogs, but you will need to consider - Are they the right breed of dog for you? The answer to this question will vary from person to person. In considering any breed of dog it is good to think long and hard about what you want in a dog in general. Pondering this before you find a description of a breed, who you think you might be considering, is a good place to start, rather than finding a breed and deciding if its traits are right for you. Once you have decided what you would like in a dog, then it is time to consider the Pyr Shep. To consider the Pyr Shep we will look at his description from some phrases from the breed standard.
A lean, lively dog of minimal height and weight, and a sinewy build;...
Pyr Sheps have their own unique and complex personality, and are quite unlike any other dog. Don't be fooled by their cute faces. They are independent, and hard working little dogs, who are very intelliegent and are not for the faint of heart!
...with a great deal of energy ...
If you are looking for a sedate dog the Pyr Shep is not for you. Pyr Sheps are a very energetic breed of dog and do need lots of exercise.They come in a small package, but are tough little dogs with an incredible amount of energy, and who bring new meaning to the phrase "Energizer Bunny". Always on the move and active, they spend a lot of time looking for something fun to do to entertain both themselves and you.
... and an intelligent, cunning, mischievous attitude and expression;...
A Pyr Shep's intelligence makes him a dog who thinks about every situation, and makes him the versatile dog that he is - capable of herding livestock, navigating agility courses, doing tracking, and many other tasks. On the other hand this intelligence can often cause Pyr Sheps to learn bad habits as quickly as good ones. Being domineering with a Pyr Shep will not work - they will not be bossed around, but they do need lots of direction and input especially while growing up. Learning the way dogs think, and going to obedience classes so you can learn how to train a Pyr Shep is a must. Remember obedience classes are for people, not for dogs!
... always on alert, suspicious, ready for action.
Putting a Pyr Shep in a backyard, and ignoring it day after day is a bad idea. Their intelligence, and desire to do something will get them into trouble. Having a fenced yard of an acceptable height is also a necessary part of having a Pyr Shep. Because they are a herding breed, they are very visually stimulated, and can become chasers of things that perhaps they should not chase! Don't be surprised at how agile they are, and the heights they can clear with a single bound.
The Pyrenean Shepherd ... is a versatile herder to his very soul and has the intelligent initiative to adapt to all manner of changing circumstances in order to fulfill the human shepherd's every need with unequalable prowess.
A Pyr Shep's herding instincts must also be considered. These dogs have been used for herding sheep in rugged terrain for thousands of years. Picture in your mind in times past shepherds up in the Pyrenees Mountains in France with their flocks of sheep. This person needed a dog who could think on its own, and make decisions, as well as the ability to take directions. These dogs also needed the ability to work tirelessly when needed in difficult settings. They were extremely devoted to their master and not very open minded to anyone else. In our setting their herding instinct and personality also make them prone to "bossing around" other household pets much to the dismay of the other pets, and often taking on the role of "fun police". These traits are all deeply ingrained in Pyr Sheps and though can be modified somewhat by training, are inherent to who the dog is, and must be considered.
He has the tendency to become passionately attached to his owner to the complete exclusion of all others and is astonishingly sensitive to his owner's moods. As a companion, he is very active and enthusiastic and insists upon being involved in the day's activities whatever they may be. He is very affectionate with the members of his immediate family but is distrustful of strangers.
Pyr Sheps are extremely connected with their owners and love to be involved with your life. Some people love this in a dog and some people don't. If you are one of those people who don't like to be followed everywhere, you don't want a Pyr Shep!
The Pyr Shep's natural inclination is to feel no need to be involved with other people outside of its family. For the Pyr Shep there is not a lot of neutral ground... you are either part of a small exclusive group of "friends" or you are a "foe". This can also be true of other animals and situations. To prevent this from becoming a problem socialzation is crucial. They need to go places, and be exposed to different people, animals, and situations especially throughout their first year. Pyr Sheps are not an easy breed to grow up and do need much more socializing than the average dog does. If you are willing to make this investment, you will end up with a wonderful companion. Please be aware as well that there are unpleasant Pyr Shep temperaments as in any breed. Even if you are only looking for a pet, find a responsible breeder you can trust who does something with there dogs rather than just breed them.
SO IS THE PYR SHEP FOR YOU...
This is a question you will now have to decide for you and your family. Talk with a responsible breeder about any further questions you might have about the breed. Find someone who cares about the breed and is not out to just sell a dog. A conscientious breeder will be honest enough to tell you if they think that perhaps the Pyr Shep is not the best choice for you.
© 2005 Joni A. Johnson - Do not reprint or copy without permission.