Answers (1) |
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Do LOTS of research. I adopted my rescue dog Pyrenees when she was 14 months old. So, she was still technically a puppy, but in an adult body. Everything I've read about "dogs" in general doesn't really apply to Pyrs. They are soooo breed-specific. So many people think they were bred to be herding dogs. This is not true. They were bred to GUARD sheep, not herd them. Once you understand this, a lot of their temperment makes more sense. I'd advise you to have a fence in your yard that he can NOT see through. This is because they tend to think everything as far as their eye can see is their property to guard. This causes problems in that it's stressful for both you and the dog if they are barking at things several blocks away :) They do tend to be barkers and a visual block can really help this problem. They are VERY independant, stubborn and tough to train outside. Inside, they are angels. It's not that they don't understand commands (they are very smart) they just have a hard time realizing who's boss. They are extra prone to heat stroke so be careful in the summer months. DO NOT clip or shave their coat. Their double coat protects them from the heat as well as the cold. They aren't big water fans (though I'm sure there are always exceptions), so don't force them or expect them to swim. I'd recommend walking/leashing tips, but since you already walk your soon-to-be guy, then I assume you know how he is! They are very fearless dogs which means that they can run into traffic without being scared of "fighting" with the cars. I wouldn't recommend them as off-leash dogs as they tend to roam because of their instinct to guard vast areas. They are VERY friendly, non-aggressive and don't START fights , but if another dog is testy or picks a fight with a Pyr, be careful. The Pyr has a tendency to go full-force and he WILL win! They were bred to fight to the death if they were forced to. But again, they are NOT aggressors. Only when they are protecting you, your family, or themselves. They are actually super sweet in demeanor. Transition-wise, after you adopt him, I'd advise you to set hierchy standars pretty quickly. I know it's temoting to just love them and cuddle them and treat them as youwould an adopted kid, but they need to know who's boss. The longer you wait, the tougher it gets. Their skin and tummies are sensitive, so buy a good quality food, to avoid problems later (like hotspots, soft stool, etc.). Brush them (they love it!) often, but no need to bathe (their coats repel dirt naturally) unless they get filthy for some reason. Remember, they're not fans of water so bathing is... erm... let's say... "difficult" hahaha. This is a crazy-long answer, and very all-over-the-place, so I'm sorry for that. These are the best tips I can think of right now off the top of my head. Pyrs are AWESOME dogs when in proper care. I wouldn't trade mine for the world and would not hesitate to get another one in the future. They LOVE their owners and are GREAT with kids and even cats. SUper lovey and cuddly, but demanding! So just be sure to get a book on the breed or do a lot of fishing online. Good luck and congrats on your new addition to the family! |
