The Great Pyrenees dog truly inspires an endless array of adjectives. To attempt to describe this dog in a simple sentence does not seem possible to those of us who love the breed. The innate intelligence, magnificent beauty, aristocratic presence, and self confidence which are characteristic of the breed draws one into the magic. Upon first meeting, a pyr is guaranteed to make a lasting impression on the viewer. Only after one has met a pyr and studied the breed’s unique history does it become apparent that the breed’s true and greatest value is not in its beauty, but in the admirable and unique character of the dog. It is said that a pyr’s eyes are the gateway to their soul. Monsieur Bernard Senac-Lagrange, a Frenchman who cared deeply about the breed and involved his life around pyrs, stated his view of a “pyrenean expression” thus: “As you look in these eyes, the immense moral value of the breed pierces your soul.”
The Great Pyrenees’ association with man dates back many centuries, and skeletal remains of pyrs have been dated to the Bronze Age. A working dog, the physical and mental characteristics of pyrs have remained virtually unchanged down through the centuries, and it is one of the few breeds with no known ancestor in existence. In addition to show and pet families, there has been a resurgence to utilize the dogs as livestock guardians. With the resurgence, a history steeped in the protection of livestock and people is renewed. Today the pyr is comfortable in the show ring, at the feet of its master, or guarading sheep and goats. In the 17th Century, pyrs became popular with the French nobility. Louis XIV made the breed the official French court dog. Both Queen Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria favored and owned pyrs. Today it takes very little imagination to look at your pyr and envision him patrolling the chateaux of France and fraternizing with the Lords and Ladies of the French Court. There is no doubt that he was the king of all he durveyed, and quite likely little impressed with his French royal masters. The pyr is equally at ease in either an atmosphere of supreme luxury, or on a peasant doorstep high in the mountains where life revolves around strenuous work, extreme weather and imadequate diet. In the Pyrenees, he is called a “mat dog” by the peasant farmers.
Despite our contagious enthusiasm about this wonderful breed, pyr fanciers worldwide recognize that a decision to be owned by a pyr should be considered carefully. Pyrs are NOT a dog for everybody; no dog breed is. A pyr should only be considered if you are able, and willing, to provide proper facilities, which include fencing, plenty of love, and sound training. To further investigate your interest in this wonderful breed, please read The Right Breed For You? If you have read it, and still believe that you would like to have a pyr, you will become one of the many people around the world who firmly believe that this is the most beautiful, regal, and intelligent dog in the world. But be forwarned: A very special bond develops between a pyr and its family . . . and a certain yearning begins to develop. Pyr owners refer to this yearning as the “potato chip factor” . . . betcha can’t own just one!
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