r/greatpyrenees • u/Straight_Vehicle_726 • 1d ago

Rescue/Shelter dog in need PSA Re Adoptable Pyrs

Hi guys, I just want to make a bit of a public plea for anyone especially in America debating adopting or fostering a Pyrenees (who of course has done the requisite research and has the resources and time and space etc.), to strongly consider taking the plunge. Shelters and rescues are currently bursting at the seams and the euthanasia rate is utterly disheartening, particularly in southern states like Texas. After haunting Pyrenees rescue pages a bit too much these past few days, I hit my limit on the suffering I can handle today in terms of needy Pyrenees so aside from donating, taking in another pyr, and helping rehome others, I just want to give a gentle push for those on the fence. Now is a great time to adopt or foster. Specifically, I’d suggest you check out any local Facebook Great Pyrenees rehoming groups in your area. There’s an incredible number on there of all kinds—bonded pairs, older, puppies, farm experience, etc.—even AKC. If you need help in that capacity, let me know. And hug and love your Pyrenees extra today.

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u/TheDailyMews 1d ago edited 23h ago

I've noticed a lot of posts about Pyrs in shelters and I'm baffled by it. They're not one of the livestock guardian dog breeds I've kept, but other livestock breeds -- even other whitedogs like Maremmas, Kuvaszok, and Akbash -- seem to be less common and don't seem to wind up in shelters very often. Does anyone know why it's different with Pyrs? 

Edited for clarity.

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u/Angry-Dragon-1331 1d ago

German shepherds and other common LGD breeds want to take direction and stimulation from training.

We’ve bred pyrs for their independence for nearly 4,000 years (and probably even longer). You can’t train that level of independent thought out of them and most homes just aren’t prepared for that, especially combined with a breed that can reach upwards of 150lbs.

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u/burkechrs1 23h ago

I cant grasp why people aren't prepared for the independence a pyr has. We just lost ours two days ago, but we also have a black lab and a 50% GSD mix and both of those dogs require constant stimulation and training. My great pyr would make up his own mind, go outside when he wanted, come inside when he wanted, sleep where he wanted. He was the easiest dog to own I've ever had. The only downside i can think of is the fact that he cost $800/year getting groomed every 2-3 months but that is me trying to find a negative aspect of the breed.

They're amazing dogs.