Saturday, August 8, 2009

The Greatest Great Pyrenees


I can, in all honest, say that Lulu is the GREATEST Great Pyrenees I have ever known. Primarily, because she is the only one I have ever known. But, after researching the breed - I have discovered many fascinating qualities of the breed I wish to share.

  • The Great Pyrenees has single dewclaws on the front legs and double dewclaws on the hind legs. The long, feathered, plumed tail curves upward slightly at the tip and reaches at least to the hocks.
  • The Great Pyrenees is a capable and imposing guardian, devoted to its family, and somewhat wary of strangers - human or canine. They are often used to guard livestock. This trait shone daily in Lulu - she watches over our flock of animals, calmly, and quietly. Cautiously aware of all that is going on.
  • When not provoked, it is calm, well- mannered, and somewhat serious. Courageous, very loyal and obedient. Gentle and affectionate with those he loves. Lulu is extremely well behaved, loving and appears already devoted to us. And that's after only a weeks worth of love! Imagine how she will be in a few years!
  • Devoted to family even if self-sacrifice is required. It is very gentle with its family and children. It does best with children when it is raised with them from puppyhood. It has an independent nature, and may try to dominate a less secure or meek owner. Has been as gentle as a lamb when friends brought their somewhat difficult children. The patience she showed far out weighted my patience with these children.
  • Owners need to be firm, but calm, confident and consistent with the dog. Setting rules the dog must follow and sticking to them. A serious worker, but very independent. Be patient when training the Great Pyrenees, as it may be slightly difficult. She has tested her boundaries and understands what is acceptable and what is not. One simple 'uh-huh' firmly said is all it takes.
And - the best reason I have to say she is the GREATEST Great Pyrenees? Simply because she was a rescue from Animal control - She needed me - as much as I needed her. There is no doubt in my mind it was meant to be.

She has her appointment to be spayed on the 19th. Even if this was not a requirement of adoption through animal control, in my opinion it would be necessary. There are way too many puppies, kittens, cats and dogs being discarded. I urge anyone reading - if you are interested in getting a new forever friend - please check with your local animal control first. Even if you desire a particular breed. Petfinder.com can search shelter near your zip code by breed, size - whatever you are looking for can be found.

Save a life. Adopt. Spay and Neuter. I am proof positive that the greatest pets - are rescued.

2 comments:

  1. Could Pyrenees also be called Andorran?

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  2. Same geography - but not exactly politically correct - well - not as far as the dog breed is concerned.

    ReplyDelete