Aggressive 1 1/2 year old great Pyrenees

2 days ago my 1 1/2 year old Pyrenees got aggressive with my 5 year old.

We have had him since he was 6 weeks old and have never had a problem.

We gave him a bone and my son was shoveling and got close to his bone. He went at him and thankfully just got the end of his glove. After that I took the bone away and told him bad.

My husband tried to get my son to go back up to him to pet him and he just growled. So I went and was petting and talking to him and tried again with my son to go back up to him but as soon as he went to pet him he growled and went at his face but never made contact because we had the dog on a leash at this point. So my question is what do I do now? I haven't let him by my children since, because I'm nervous he will bite them.

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Apr 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		serious
by: wendy

Wow. I would say that you have some serious Alpha dog problems. I don't own this breed but have been researching and understand that training early on is needed to prevent this type of behavior. I would hire a trainer to work with your son and dog.....or find a home w/out young children for your dog. This type of dominance is best prevented with early training so at this point it will take much more work.

From puppy on, you should have been training the dog to allow your child to take food in and out of the dog's mouth etc. Normal instinct can always kick in around a food-dominated dog, but I don't like the fact that he growled when the bone was gone and actually snapped and went at your child. That is dangerous when you're talking about an animal that probably weights 2-3x that of your child.
Apr 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Maybe not so much aggressive as misinterpreted communication.....
by: Tressie

I will let the Pyr experts weigh in on this. However, I can give you some insights for consideration. Guarding a prized possession like a bone is normal canine behaviour. Now some dogs are more possessive than others. And it would appear that trait is more strongly ingrained in certain breeds, such as many of the livestock guardian breeds, like the Pyr.

The best strategy is not to approach the dog and leave him alone to enjoy his bone. Reprimanding or punishment do not work and may make things worse, especially with sensitive Pyrs who do best with positive reinforcement methods.

Forcing the child to pet the dog is not good a good idea either. The dog will pick up on the child’s fear and anxiety and it’s never a good strategy to have a child approach a dog even under the best of circumstances. Rather the dog should be given the opportunity to do the approaching.

I am wondering as well whether you are familiar with the signs that indicate a dog is not pleased about something, nervous or fearful. You may find the information at this link helpful: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/canine-body-language

A warning growl should never be reprimanded since that eliminates an important step - the message the dog is communicating, i.e., "Stay back – leave me alone." The growl means that something more unpleasant will follow if the warning isn't heeded. Dogs who have been punished when they growl – move straight to a bite.

Just as children need to be taught how to be well-behaved around other people, they need to be taught to be well-behaved and respectful around animals. They need to learn what kinds of games are appropriate, how to touch the dog properly, how to interpret the dog's body language and when the dog is not to be disturbed.

Importantly, young children should never, ever be left alone with any dog, no matter how reliable the dog has been before. A responsible adult needs to be on the scene to prevent any aggressive behavior by the dog and to keep the child from putting him or herself in danger.

Here is another useful link to a wonderful overview by the late Dr. Sophia Yin on how to approach dogs: http://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/preventing-dog-bites-by-learning-to-greet-dogs-properly

In the interim, I encourage you to look for a behaviourist trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods to help you work with your dog. At 1 ½ your Pyr is still a juvenile, brimming with potential and is on a steep learning curve.

Apr 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Donna

First, you will need to work on resource guarding with your dog. This should have been done when he was a puppy and as he became older. Dr. Sophia Yin is a renowned vet behavourist. You can search around for resource guarding information.
http://drsophiayin.com/videos/entry/ben_guards_the_food_bowl

Your dog is now of the age that he is becoming his own dog. Never punish him for growling or he will go for the bite because no one is listening to his growl.

He is instinctly guarding his food/bone.

You need to train your child not to go near your dog when he is eating. Never tell the dog he is bad.

Don't force the child to go to the dog. The dog is obviously a little anxious at this point because he is being punished for growling.

However, it is important to work on resource guarding so that if your dog does pick up something he shouldn't have, you can take it away if need be.

I would highly recommend that you take a child and dog course on how to train your child to behave around dogs and how to work with your dog on resource guarding.

You don't want to set your dog up for failure.
Apr 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Donna

I almost forgot. There is also some great information on dogs and children on this website.

https://www.great-pyrenees-club-of-southern-ontario.com/bestdogsforchildren.html

I hope this helps.
Apr 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Donna

Thank you,Tressie. Exactly my approach, as well.

Here is a great article, as well, by Dr. Sophia Yin on the myth of dominance and alpha. When you start using this approach, a bite will happen.

http://drsophiayin.com/philosophy/dominance
Apr 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Alpha - NOT
by: Tressie

Unfortunately, the ‘dominance/alpha’ concept of dogs still has a firm grip on the imagination of many well-meaning individuals. No small part due to a popular reality show led by one, Cesar Milan. That view has long been discredited by canine behavioral science.

I strongly encourage Wendy to read the information on the link Donna provided. Since you have been actively researching, I will assume that you are open-minded enough to consider a different way of conceptualizing dogs. For example, we now know without a shred of doubt that dogs can read our emotional states from our facial expressions to the intonations in our voices. They are innately, highly socialized to humans and are not into dominating the human race.

On the contrary, it is humans who feel the need to dominate dogs and therefore, create the behavioral problems to begin with. Rather than learning how to read ‘dog’ and finding ways to communicate our wishes to our canine companions in language they can understand, we bully them into submitting to our will through the use of painful and cruel devices and methods like shock/prong collars, alpha rolls, etc. All designed to break their spirit and make them comply when in fact all it does is create mistrust of humans and resulting fear-based aggression.

If you want credible, current information about doggy psychology from one of the best-known veterinary canine behaviorists, the late Dr. Sophia Yin, follow the link Donna provided.

Another excellent resource to check out is another well-known veterinary behaviorist Dr. Ian Dunbar, who has a series of free YouTube videos on dog/puppy behavior/training: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLE69C623A53AFE753
Apr 05, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		alpha dog
by: Wendy

Yes I am familiar with what you're saying and am not a Cesar fan actually. What I DO not subscribe to are people putting their dogs at the same importance as their child.

At 1 1/2 yrs old I have a feeling early training didn't happen as it should have. I own and have owned several afghan hounds. Although sight hounds and not a LGD, they are independent thinkers and I presume have a lot of similar behavioral traits as pyrs.

The Afghan hound responds best to kindness, respect and understanding. We had a food dominance issue early on and addressed it with teaching the dog to trust and not punish the growl, but teach the dog it was not necessary.

The dog KNOWS who is boss but it is not because of a heavy hand or punishment, it is mutual respect.
Aug 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggressive
by: Vicki P. Nesom

I have been a Pyr owner, breeder and farmer who depended on my field dogs, since 1980. This would alarm me slightly, on two levels. First, a 1 & 1/2 year old male is not grown until 2 with everything locked in by 3. He was testing his boundaries and simultaneously correcting his young human (generally considered as a litter mate and more or less equal in the pecking order).

Being a believer in the Pack Leader Theory, I would have growled loudly at him, and probably shown my teeth, to let him know he is under my child and not allowed to correct him. I would also do a lot of explaining to my child as a well trained child would have immediately looked at the the dog and away, to show no threatening intentions. This probably would have diffused it all.

My second concern, if you did not breed this pup or are at least knowledgeable of the lines, is that signs on inbreeding (especially aggression) show up sometime between 1 and 2 years old. They will trend and only get worse, and not be open for Pack Leader correction....they challenge everybody. These dogs get put down if they show up at the Nesoms Ark. Pyrs are too strong to put up with aggression or bad judgement. Ever.
Aug 10, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

Never growl back at the dog. You'll most certainly be at risk of being bitten in the face.

You need to work towards a mutual respect and trust from the beginning. Without that, it's not a good start in life.

I would recommend you bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to show you how to manage your dog.

This work should have been well started by the breeder and the mother of the pups in the first crucial 8 weeks for the development of bite inhibition, being well-socialized and handled by many many different people.

The next 5 weeks are as crucial. You would have worked with the dog on this, too. The dog needs to be worked with continually. However, those first 13 weeks are critical to your dog becoming a good canine citizen.
Feb 08, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Justice to a noble breed
by: Anonymous

Consider a Great Pyrenees from outside the states. I did,they have been inbred to many times here, you will find they are much much more intelligent,gentle and responsive. here in America everyone of them I have seen except for the ones not from here all have some sort of mental disorder if you do find one that isn't then the bloodlines hasn't been in the states for very long I know this may upset a lot of breeders but so be it, I love this breed and most breeders are not doing right by them...
Nov 08, 2017
Rating
starstarstar 		Same problem here
by: Anonymous

What was the outcome since this post was dated 2015?I have a 3 year old pyr and a 5 year old son. No problems until recently with the dog coming at my son, food and bone. It took me a sec to understand why the dog was upset, my son was not intentionally aggravating the dog, but nonetheless our dog thought otherwise. I laid the law down with the dog both times, and out pyr seemed to understand. Most of the time the pyr is great with him, and even plays fetch. I'm wondering if getting him fixed would help calm the situation.
Nov 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

What do you mean the dog went at your son, food and bone?

The dog tried to take food from your son?

If you are having problems, it's best to bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to help you learn how to manage any aggressive behaviour.

Attempting to help someone online without seeing what is going on is impossible. There are different variables. A trainer needs to see it first hand.
Dec 30, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Glad to have found this page
by: Lesterline

We have 2 Pyrs, a 6 yr old female and a 2.5 year old male. The female has always been a crazy barker but I have implicit trust in her. The male came from working stock at 9 weeks old and was a complete wonder dog, getting his CGC at only 8 months. We just KNEW He was therapy dog material. At 11 months old he started attacking or "over guarding" our very gentle Golden retriever. We got our Pyr neutered at 13 months hoping this would help. It didn’t make a difference at all. I finally had to send my beautiful loving Golden next door to live w my son so he wouldn’t get his muzzle torn up anymore than it already was. It makes me so sad to think about how this gentle loving dog grew up to be unpredictable as he is now. We tried adaptil collars, redirecting, kennel time and working with a trainer. Please someone with experience tell me this will change as he ages or at least tell me how you have successfully countered this behavior. Upsets me that on fbk forums you really don’t get much support or hear anything like this. Makes you feel like there is only perfect Pyrs or really bad Pyrs. Where are the good ones with just a few minor quirks?!?
Jan 01, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Attacking other dog
by: Donna

There are all sorts of dogs of any breed with behaviourial issues of different levels. It's not the fault of the dog that they end up like they are.

If the dog comes from an unethical breeder (pet store, backyard breeder, farmer) where they don't get the crucial socialization and handling by many many different people in the first 8 weeks of puppyhood followed by the same from their new people, issues will occur as they mature. They also need their littermates and mothers in that first 8 weeks to learn how to get along with other dogs. An unethical breeder also doesn't breed for sound temperament or health. Sometimes, they are breeding a mix of white dogs that are a combination of Pyr/Maremma/Akbash and or Kuvasz. This can lead to wires crossing and aggression inevitably occurs. It can be a combination of these things in their early lives that can set them up for failure.

It sounds like your dog is dog reactive. This does not usually improve, unfortunately. This is unfortunate since you have a female and they were together since he was a puppy.

When walking him on leash and he reacts to other dogs, this can be managed. You need to see the other dog before he does, cross the street and redirect him with treats as he pays attention to you. And, keep this up until the other dog passes.

It sounds like you have done everything right in bringing a positive-reinforcement trainer in. I wish I had better news for you. He'll need to be an only dog. There are many like that in rescue.
Jan 11, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		4 year old adopted Pry growling a strangers
by: Lynda

HELP. What do I need to do please !!! I am a strong Alpha but I’m at a loss because there’s no rhyme or reason that I can see on why he does this. I tell my friends not to approach him, let hi. Come to them. He will come up to the guest in a very friendly way, then sometimes he growls and other times he doesn’t. Someone please help me, he’s a very sweet boy and I want to help him.
Jan 12, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

I don't know what you mean by you being 'alpha'. You should be working with your dog as if in a dance and you are leading. You must never force a dog to do anything he doesn't want to do.

Growling is good. If you stop the growling, he goes for the bite. He isn't telling you he isn't comfortable with those people at whom he is growling. Listen to him.

That said, there isn't much that can be done with this behavior but do bring in a vet behaviourist and/or a positive-reinforcement trainer to assess your dog.

There are issues at play here right from poor genetics to lack of that crucial socialization/handling in his first 8 weeks of puppyhood by the breeder to have been continued by you, of course. You should also talk to the breeder. They can advise you.
Jan 22, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Agressivenpyr
by: Tina

I have a neutered pyr who will be 2 onnApril 1st. He is the most affectionate dog I have ever had and he is our family dog.

Two days ago he was chewing on a fresh marrow bone near the tv. My husband sat on the ottoman to put in a dvd, then he petted Samson’s head. Samson curled his lips ( my husband missed this sign!) And immediately the fog turned his head and bit my husbands thumb! And would not let go. Thankfully my husband was not seriously hurt, but this behavior is unacceptable.

What do I do? This is the second time he has protected a bone. The first one was last year when he found some deer bones in the field. He has never done this with any other marrow bones but they have all been previously frozen. Could that be the difference?
Samson has been through training and I still work with him. The only other thing that bothers me is that he will not come when called off leash outside.
Jan 23, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Donna

Reconsider feeding marrow bones to a dog. They are hard and will break his teeth.

Next, you need to work with your dog on this resource guarding. He's not aggressive but being protective of his bone. You need to work with him on this behaviour. I suspect you wouldn't want him to take your food.

He needs to learn that if you take something of value away, he'll get it back. You're no threat. This bone is of high value. You need to trade off with him something of higher value.

Bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to help you learn how to manage this.

Here is an article for information:

https://www.dogstardaily.com/training/guarding-valued-objects
Jan 23, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Off-leash
by: Donna

Do some research on the Pyr.

They were 'invented' by man to watch over livestock without human intervention (except to feed, groom and care for the dog). This means they are independent thinkers. They are not obedience dogs.

They must be walked on leash and have a fully-fenced secure yard in which to hang out.

They only do something you ask if it's in their best interest.

Work with your dog and only use positive-reinforcement training. Reward for good behaviour, redirect for unwanted behaviour.

Here is a place for good information on the Pyr.

https://www.great-pyrenees-club-of-southern-ontario.com/Great-Pyrenees.html
Jan 23, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Re: responses to my post
by: Tina

Thank you both so very much. I read completely the site info on Pyrs. It was so helpful. I did not choose this dog, my daughter with her kind heart bought him for me when my Hovawart died after 16 years. I have gone back and forth about keeping him.

We have 15 acres but live on a state highway, so I cannot ever let him off leash. He has gotten out a couple of times and oh boy! Is he happy! But, he crosses the road. So very dangerous.

Do you all think he would be better off in a home where people are around all the time? I have to work and my husband works so he is in his kennel when we are gone. I do have a wonderful dog walker, so he does get exercise even when I am not home.
I’m just torn.
Jan 24, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To keep or not to keep
by: Donna

This is the problem when people gift people with pets. It's never a good idea. But, you have him now and obviously love him.

You do have a dog walker so that's great. If you walk him when you get home and before you leave for work, that will be plenty for him.

Do try to fence some of your yard so he can run and play. They do need off-leash time. Try to get at least a 50x100 area fenced area of secure fencing (no invisible fencing or tie outs). Six feet should do it. Do not leave him out when you are not there, however.

People do not need to be around in the day. Dogs tend to sleep in the day (Pyrs are nocturnal by nature but get into the human routine with time)providing they do get enough exercise.

As long as you love him, look after him including exercise, grooming regularly and keeping his nails trimmed including the dew claws, and he's being fed and watered, and you couldn't really bear to part with him, there is no reason to let him go.

I hope this helps.
Jan 29, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggressive w/out food involved
by: Anonymous

My Pyrenees, Sonny, turned 2 in October. We got him as a puppy. He does have food aggression, we have taught our kids to just leave him alone while he is eating. However, 2 nights ago, I was helping my 8 year old daughter with something on the computer, Sonny was sitting next to us both and out of nowhere, he bit my daughter in the face (Lip/chin area). I too, am hesitant as what to do next. There was no food involved at all. My daughter wasn't even paying any attention to him... I feel like I have lost all trust in him. He is un-neutered, I have read on this post that neutering didn't change anything. Any advice, since there was NO food/bones involved.
Thanks in advance
Stepheni
Jan 29, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

This is very sad, Stepheni.

If you got him from a repubtable/ethical breeder, the contract will state that should anything like this happen, you need to return him.

There is nothing that can be done to reverse this behaviour. He now has a bite history and he is a danger to your family with this unpredictable behaviour. And, a danger to anyone else.

Please do not attempt to rehome him as this behaviour will only escalate wherever he would go. He may be abused for this and this would not be fair to him. This behaviour is not his fault but rather the breeding (poor genetics) and/or the lack of socialization and training by the breeder when he was a pup. This is crucial and must be done by many many different people. Without it, what is happening with your dog is what happens as they mature.

I'm so sorry you're going through this.

Please read this:

http://www.drjensdogblog.com/harsh-truths-and-difficult-choices-the-reality-of-behavioral-euthanasia/
Feb 10, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		aggression in Great Pyrenees
by: Anonymous

We have always had Great Pyrenees here on the farm as they are good for predator control and we have bear, wolves, etc. They have always been loveable big teddy bears until this last dog. We got him one year ago as a puppy. Around nine months old he started showing aggression when he was brushed. He would growl. Once he picked up a tool from my shop floor and walked outside. When I tried taking it away from him he attacked me very aggressively. He was scolded and backed away.99% of the time he is super friendly playing in the yard with us and our grandchildren, but then we have another bout of aggressive from him. The final straw was recently when my wife was brushing him and trying to remove burrs from his coat. He attacked her and had her pinned up against a wall. When I stepped in between them he went around me and attacked her again snapping toward her face. He was in our porch area when this happened so I ordered him outside. He stood his ground growling at both of us. I picked up a chair to keep between him and me and forced him outside. He went out but turned back and growled at us. My wife was crying and said she will never have anything ever to do with that dog again. We have since had him put down, as rehoming wasn't an option. It was a sad day for us as we loved him so much, but we couldn't trust him anymore, fearing that his next attack may be on one of our grandchildren.
Feb 11, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggressive of my bedroom
by: Anonymous

Our 2 yr old pyr started guarding my bedroom about 2 weeks ago. He will growl, bark, and even snap if anyone comes to close to the door. He never did this before. My husband and I are allowed in, no problem, but my kids are not. If my kids are in the room before he comes in, he guards them from others. It appears he is protecting the bed itself. Other than the normal bone issue, the dog is fine with kids everywhere else. My sister visited, and that actually seems to be when it started. All sorts of people were here at Christmas and we had no issues, including my sister. I woke up last night at 2 am with my 9 yr old son screaming bloody murder in the hall. He sleep walks. Dog woke him up and scared him at my door. I don't think anything happened, but we have to figure this out. I have 4 kids, 2 of which are 3 yr old twins. They come to my room at night. If I close my door, the dog seems to be way more aggressive. He will lunge at the door if someone tries to open it. If I close him out of the room, he lays in front of the door in the hall and guards. If I leave it open, the growling and barking wake me up. He doesn't lunge or move, just lays still as long as the door is open. I have even put lights down the hall so he can see who is approaching. Doesn't make a difference. We got him from a rescue when he was 9 months. He was taken from an abusive farm situation and bounced thru a pound and 2 shelters first. I do not know all the specifics. Is this the new him, or just a phase? While he has snapped at the kids in other situations, my kids try to pet him when he growls. It is to be expected. He has never broken skin, and he seems to pout and feel sorry for himself after he snaps at kids. He is kind of pitiful looking. I know he means no harm. I can train and work with the kids and the dog on normal stuff, like stay away is he has a bone, but I am stumped on the bedroom issue.
Feb 11, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

Don't underestimate him.

Rule number one for everyone. If he growls, leave him alone. He is trying to tell you to leave him alone. Without the growl, he'll go for the bite.

This is not a phase. This behaviour usually escalates.

There is a reason he was bounced around and I suspect this is why.

I would recommend you talk to a vet behaviourist and/or bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to assess him.

Do not put your family in danger. Do not give him away since this behaviour will only escalate anywhere else and you put him at risk of being abused.
Mar 21, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pyrenees mix
by: Amanda.M

I have an 18 month old pyr/husky mix. She is wonderful with us our kids and any other visiting adults and kids. We had an issue with the neighbors french bulldog, she mauled it! She has got ahold of this dog like 4 times. In her defense of that the bulldog was very yappy and would go onto our property and try and bite my 14 and 12 year old boys after getting off the school bus.We put her on a cord after the 1st mauling, she broke several cords to get to this dog. We didn't know the bulldog was trying to bite my boys until later when I saw it for myself. I got to where if my dog saw or heard the other dog bark she was ready to tear into it. The neighbors got rid of their dogs(they constantly get pets and get rid of them).Even after them getting rid of their dogs we have kept Rosa on a cord. A couple weeks ago my husband against my wishes let her off the cord, she was so happy and played and ran in our yard but didn't leave. The next morning she went to anot her neighbors house and killed their daschound. We are now going to court over this. My husband wants our dog gone or put down. I love her and want to keep her, looking for advice please help. She has not been spayed I'm not sure if it would make a difference and was looking into a trainer also.
Mar 22, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Killed another dog
by: Donna

First, never tie Pyrs up. You need a secure 6 ft fully-fenced yard. No invisible fencing either. Cords, as you know, break and doesn't allow a dog to watch over their full territory. Because of this, it can lead to aggression.

Unfortunately, you're between a rock and a hard place by the sounds of it. What happens in court will determine what happens to your dog.

If you are lucky in court, you will need to bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to show you how to manage your dog. You will, I suspect, need to muzzle him anytime he is outside.

And, get your yard well-fenced.

The chances of him killing another dog are inevitable.
Jun 05, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		HELPP
by: Anonymous

My family brought a great pyr from a local shelter who was owned by another family and was a stray for a while. She is SO gentle with people and our whole family. We took her out for a walk for the first time and she was very calm when meeting other small children and people. Then she started getting extremely riled up (jumping and pulling on the leash) and barking at a dog across the street. She is 90 pounds and is really hard to hold down but we were able to hold her back. As this was happening a kid on a bicycle was biking towards us and she turned her attention towards him. When he drove by she lunged at the kid (going in to bite him) and we barely were able to hold her back. Thankfully she only tore the back of his shirt and he wasn't hurt. We don't know if we should give her up or try to fix this.

(Previously she has barked at dogs but just wanted to play. It was whining, barking, and wagging his tail.)
Jun 06, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

You need to bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer and/or a vet behaviourist to assess your dog to determine if this issue can be remedied. A positive-reinforcement trainer will show you how to manage your dog. NEVER use force on a dog.

From what you are saying, it seems like your dog has not been exposed to much activity and he is absolutely stressed out. Make sure you have allowed your dog to become accustomed to you in your home for at least three weeks.

Then, simply take the dog out on your front walk and let him look around and treat him as people,bikes etc. go by so he associates good things with this activity. Do this for a few days or until he seems okay with the activity. Then, walk a half block doing the same thing with treats. Don't let him go over the edge. Treat him when you see any stimulation approaching.

If your dog allows invited guests into your home with no issues, this is a great start.

Again, get a positive-reinforcement trainer in to help you get started.
Jun 20, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Behaviors
by: Barn Mom

3 month little white puppy needing a home! Kami grew up bring walked daily by the neighbor kids, went to day care 5 days a week. 13 months she started showing unpredictable behaviors. Dropping her off at day care she would go crazy barking n growling at other people n dogs being dropped off. I would make it a point to wait till cost was clear. Staff at day care said Kami was good during play time. Owner suggest I get Kami help after behavior started to get worse.At 16 months car hit her n left. Broke 2 bones in 1 leg n road rash the other 1 leg had surgery, plates n screws life time other leg stiches. Round clock care for 12 ish weeks. During her care she attached me, twice, not wanting the cone put back on her neck! She was crazy scarry! Kami's 19 months recovered from her injuries, will attack if you take something away from her that she's not suppose to have like napkins/toilet paper. I will never trust her alone with a child! I use a shock colar to help keep her under control on walks,Kami’s now just seeing n knowing I have the remote in my had obeys n is good. It's my security plus she won't pull me. Kami is a wounderful house dog, loves the fan. One big couch potato! Follows me from room. At times when I leave her alone in the house she panics running from room to room barking! I do cage her to keep her safe! She LOVES rides in my jeep & will stay with me running errons all day/night long! I love her to death n she's great with my little 5 lb yorkie Nemo! She's smart n totally house broke! She let's you know when she needs something even rings her bells on the door!My conclusion is! Know your pet & be a responsible pet owner! & yes Kami's a barker from butterflies to blades of grass she'll bark till you reassure her & one amazing this with a great pyrenees they love cuddle time!
Jun 21, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Shock Collars
by: Donna

Never use shock collars. Those will lead to further aggression or reactivity in a dog. They associate whenever you give a shock with pain to whatever you are shocking him for. It only stresses them.

Bring in a positive-reinforcement trainer to show you how to properly manage your dog. It takes a little longer but in the long run, it creates a better bond between you and the dog.

Please copy and paste this URL into your browser:

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/the-pet-professional-guild-formally-denounces-shock-collars-and-it-is-right-to-do-it
Aug 11, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Heartbroken
by: Bill Walters

I adopted a male 1 year old Pyr April 1 2018. He is smart, stubborn and loving, 99% of the time. He has shown signs of aggression more than once. First week, he was chewing on the leg raise handle on my recliner. I gently said "no no" and slowly stepped between him and the handle. He show ed teeth, growled very aggressively and I thought my life was over. He calmed down.

While laying on the kitchen floor or our couch, on more than one occasion, when my wife petted him or placed pillows on the couch, he growled and showed teeth. While lying in front of the grill, he growled and lunged at my wife.

My 22 year old approached him after he growled at my wife from the couch. He seemed fine, but a few minutes later, he approached my son to be petted, snapped at him and growled and became aggressive and will not back down to being said "no no".

He had a kong with a treat in ti and my Golden entered the room and he went at her. Had her by the throat and I had to hit him in the head with a small plastic grocery basket to startle him off her (I never hit my dogs).

I phoned the person I rescued him from and he confirmed the same behavior from 4 months old, when he got hime from someone to date. He mentioned when he told the dog to get down from the counter, the dog bit him more than once. She recommended a shock collar but I do not want to do that. Will cause more issues. She then felt I should put him down.

One thing we've noticed and after mentioning to the previous owner, she confirmed, his eyes seem "wild" when he is in this mood. I even think his eyes are a different color, normally Brown, but a more reddish hue?

I talked to behaviorist today. She said "put him down". My heart is broken. Is there any chance through medicine or training to reverse this behavior? Any suggestions welcome. Thanks
Aug 12, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

I'm sorry your going through this. If you adopted him from a reputable rescue, they would never have adopted him out to you. They would have done the right thing since he is not safe.

It's unfortunate the person from whom you acquired this dog did not tell you of the bite history. This dog has a history and he keeps getting passed around because of it. He's lucky to have landed with you in that you will not physically abuse him.

Yes. Any aggression towards the dog will only make things worse. Never use shock collars or any kind of punishment.

The behaviourist is right. It's your decision, of course. This behaviour cannot be safely rectified. He originates from a backyard breeder/farmer or puppy mill where they don't get the crucial socialization and handling in their first 8 weeks of life to be continued by their new people. There is also a genetic component.

He is dangerous and it's no fault of his own. Do not pass him on, though. He may end up in abusive danger for his behaviour.

Here is a blog written by a vet for your information, Bill:

http://www.drjensdogblog.com/harsh-truths-and-difficult-choices-the-reality-of-behavioral-euthanasia/
Sep 19, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 year old starts showing aggressive behavior
by: Anonymous

I came upon this site this evening as I also have a Great Pyr that I got at 9 weeks,he is now 3. He is and has been a wonderful dog until very recently when he doesn't want anyone else to touch him but my husband or me. Recently when he see my husband approaching he runs to his food and gobbles it up. He has never been food motivated and will lay by while the blue Jay's eat out of his dish. Tonight my husband approached him while he was eating and he growled and showed his teeth. Now I am concerned that he could hurt our grandkids. He is outside all of the time and we live on a farm where he has lots of room to run around. The older he gets the better he is at listening. He likes other dogs. Our daughter brings her dog here sometimes and although I never feed them together Sam is ner aggressive with the other dog over treats or anything like that.
Dec 31, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggressive Pyr, health and breeding
by: Anonymous

I’m very interested to read this thread and have some experience to add. My husband and I live with my young son on a 40 acre hobby farm with several acres of fenced area for our dogs to enjoy (5 foot fencing and we’ve never had a dog get loose). We’ve had several breeds of dogs over the years, often rescues, but after months of research we decided to purchase a Pyr. I sought a reputable breeder through the kennel club and waited about 6 months for the litter to arrive. We were absolutely in love with our beautiful male. He was a bundle of affection and took to training well.

At around 1.5 years old our ‘gentle giant’ started showing aggression. He had been through training with my son and I, had been neutered, had never been physically beaten and had been socialized with many friends and other dogs. We also own a 10 year old rescue dog and many small animals. The first time he attacked me I was trying to collect a chicken he had killed in the yard. He jumped up and bit my arm, slightly breaking skin and leaving a large bruise and would not back down. This came out of nowhere. I was not trying to take the chicken from him, he merely saw me collecting it. We decided to adjust our behaviour (positive reinforcement and confirming our position in the pack by making him wait to follow me coming in the house, sitting and waiting for food, etc.) and give the relationship more time. Anytime I needed him to release something I would present him with something better and this seemed to solve all agggression. However, a month or so later he bit my husbands hand when he was trying to get him off our bed (where he was not invited to be). Then soon after one evening I was sitting on our living room floor beside him and he snapped unexpectedly at my face and terrified me. We were prepared to make a tough decision. We took him to our vet and discovered that he was experiencing kidney problems which he died from weeks later even after extensive vet care. It was very distressing as we loved this dog, trained him, respected reasonable boundaries, and had specific personality expectations based on our readings about the breed. We now think he may have been in pain and hidden it for a long time, however, there was clearly a behavioural issue as well. It seems that this kidney issue was genetic, although we did not have a necropsy done. The tests our vet did for poison had negative results. We expected that he would be challenging at times due to his independence and not a dog for beginner owners but not this aggression.

I’m concerned about how many stories I have read and people I have spoken to now who have had bad experiences of Pyrs killing other dogs, attacking friends and having to make heartbreaking decisions. We are experienced dog owners that lead our pack with mutual respect and adapt as needed. We purchased our dog from a kennel club approved breeder (who has told us they will replace our dog). We sought professional training which we continued until our dog died. I’m wondering if there are more genetic issues then people realize. We were considering another Pyr and had at first assumed that we had unfortunate luck with his health problems that impacted his personality. Is this something the kennel clubs should be following more closely? Are these just anomalies in an otherwise impressive breed? For us, using a reputable breeder, experience and professional training were not enough to avoid heart break.
Jan 02, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggression
by: Donna

Aggression can also be genetic so even from a recognized kennel club breeder, it can happen. And, yes, health issues can also bring on aggression as they react to the pain.

However, this can happen with any breed of dog, not just the Pyr. I recently came across a website for rescue Vizslas and they posted that they had to euthanize a Vizsla because of many unprovoked bites and attempted biting. I know they do their due diligence in vetting to check for health issues.

I have spoken with someone who finally had to euthanize her Golden Retriever who became increasingly aggressive as he matured. A Beagle came into another rescue organization who bit unprovoked. There are many other breeds out there who have this issue. The 'Pit Bull' has been demonized as the dangerous dog but any breed can be dangerous. I know of a Pointer mix who won't let guests into the house nor does he want to be touched by strangers outside of the house. He will also attack other dogs.

Dog reactivity can be because they were not exposed to other pups/dogs or they may have been attacked by other dogs growing up. It's not known for certain, however.

The Pyr is not aggressive by nature but it certainly helps to come from a reputable breeder to have the best start possible. Some of the dogs people want to surrender inevitably come from farmers and backyard breeders where they aren't getting the socialization and handling by many many different people in puppyhood. We can't take those dogs because they do have a bite history and they are no longer safe.

The human race is not so great, either. We have humans who abuse others unprovoked but no one can say definitively why they do. But, the majority of us are good people. I think the majority of dogs are good dogs with the right breeding and upbringing.
Mar 25, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aggressive
by: Anonymous

I am a Pyrenees owner and have researched their behavior. They are defensive and have never been known to bite a human. Dogs like all other animals sense fear and it makes them defensive don't try to get your son to pet, instead give the dog treats or something to show he's not a threat. Give the bone back to the dog, she blames him for it being taken, let him give it back. But I seriously doubt the dog will bite they bark a lot and my two boys play like their gonna kill each other but they never bleed.
Jun 10, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Be Calm Consistent and Firm
by: Tiffany K.

My GP is almost perfect. Guess what? 2 years ago he was completely feral. I had to wear a backpack and haul food into the deep woods to feed and water him- twice a day. A monster had dumped him in the woods with a broken leg.

I wrote every GP Rescue for help- no one would help me. As everything in life, I had to do it myself. I could not touch him for several months after I captured him and had him completely vetted and neutered. Any sudden movement would result in a wild thrashing manic panic attack.

He is now sleeping peacefully at my feet, with my pack of three other dogs, 2 very large and a little fella. He is completely house broken, has no food aggression and shows no aggression when my Doberman mix acts like a goof ball and wants to be first in everything.

I believe I have special insight on how to help with GP.

1. They do not especially care about obedience. This is not a Lab. This is a dog of independent intelligence and strong
will because he was bred to operate without looking to us for guidance when they guard livestock. My Lab and Doberman mix live to please. If I say come, they are running to me. My little poodle mix is the same. GP? That's funny! He will completely ignore me. That's okay. Its a LONG process. Remember- they do not think like other dogs.

2. I do think you have to establish a pecking order but not with any type of dominance holds. Its laughable- they are freakishly strong. I do this with patience. When it is time to eat breakfast or his dinner- I ask Snowball to come and tap his bowl. It takes a few minutes, he is sort of working it out. Does this benefit me? If he takes longer than 3 minutes, the food goes back in the fridge and he is ignored. COMPLETELY. I may try again in an hour. He comes quicker then. I ask him to make eye contact before I put the bowl in front of him. If he refuses- food back in the fridge. No drama.

3. While learning the leash, Snowball had a fun trick of blocking and stopping. Just moving in front of you. I bought three prong leash, and my yellow lab, my doberman/Great Dane mix and I could not move him! They are that strong. I unleashed my other dogs so they could go play, and he just stood there. He laid down. Why? Because he did not want to walk on the leash. Tough! I got a book and we stayed in one place for 30 minutes. He moved.

4. Now, when he blocks, I push right back him. Its hard but he gets it. He sort of likes it now. Remember, no anger. No frustration. Just intentional touch. Never yell. I find the less talking, the better. Remember, they have generally no idea what you mean. But touch is universal.

5. I do believe their wonderful guarding instincts are a treasure. But, somehow if aggression has bubbled up, they are sensing a threat. If that's in your own family- unpack why. (pun intended) What is happening when you are not around?. Snowball was a complete wild thing, and he is a laid back Marshmallow. However, if he hears an intruder outside the fence, he runs to the threat. Ready to rumble. I like this. Its their job!

6. I find a calm, quiet stress free environment does wonders. I also put up a canvas blocking screen on my fenced two acres. He can't see all the threats. GP are guard dogs. If they have to live in a state of high alert, that aggression can become automatic.

Snowball is 156 pounds and I trust him 100%. I find that they respond to fairness. Feed in an order, keep the drama to 0 and provide them with affection and hugs after simple commands. After they do obey, they love lavish attention and praise.

They are not a dog for everyone. I did not want another dog, but could not bear to see him suffer. I made enemies in my neighborhood when people threatened to kill him and I threatened them right back. It was awful.

But he is so wonderful, so loving, so gentle- it was worth it. He is a prince. He is so gentle that he does not move in the morning until he hears me roll over. He then peeks in the bedroom if he has moved in the hall. I get up and he is so happy to see me that he just dances.

Remember- this was a dog less than 2 years ago, I could not get within 100 yards of- and I fed him!

Don't give up on them. Whatever has gone wrong can be fixed. It takes buckets of patience.
Jul 14, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Mora

I am sobing reading these stories and thinking in the future of my two Pyrs. I have a 1.5 yo Male pyr and 1yo female pyr. We have a farm and we bought them to take care of our livestock. I also have a 10yo Wirehaired Pointing Griffon and 2yo Aussie. My WPG was/is kind of my "therapy dog" while I was passing trhu a though depression time years ago. Im really attached to her.

Pyrs were good till few days ago, Kala (female Pyr) has always showed teeth (defending or guarding food) but whenever I said "Kalaaaa Noooo", she will calm down and back out in reverse kind of dragging herself away from the situation. Recently she is showing teeth and adding the growl towards my WPG. Problems is that WPG doesnt back off she acts dominant and while she doesnt growls or show teeth, she takes a stand and is firm on her desicion of not getting intimidated by Kala.

Yesterday it went bad, because Ma'awi (male pyr), for the very first time showed teeth growl and barked at me defending Kala from my WPG while I tried to control the situation between my two girls. I freaked out and showed my sandals in sign that I will hit him if he doesnt back off and change his attitude towards me, and said to him "stop". He kept grownling and barking in a sumised positions close to the ground. I know that was a mistake of mine, but I never feared to be bite by any animal like I did then.

After that I snap out of the shock and decided to sit down with both of them and said that I love them. He rolled over and give me his belly to scratch and kala hugged me (thing she do). I spent time petting them and WPG approached and cross them and they tangled together in top of me. I said good girl and good boy and pet them.

My problem is I have 3 kids at home one of them a 2yo. While they never being aggresive towards any of my kids they were with me. I am troubled as to what to do in this case. I have never have an aggresive dog before and that is something I cant have at home.

What can I do differently? it seems to me that kala and WPG are fighting over food and my attention and the ma'awi is defending Kala. I want to work trhu this situation before even thinking to get ride of them or put them down like some people are writing here.
Jul 14, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resource Guarding
by: Donna

Is the growling always over food? This is resource guarding which can be worked with in some cases. Never stop your dogs from growling. They are telling you they don't like what you are doing. You need to respect that and find a way to work with your dogs.

Dogs don't talk. Without the growl they just go for the bite to stop your behaviour.

Get in a positive-reinforcement trainer to help you with this.

Never threaten your dogs. There needs to be a partnership where you show the way. There needs to be trust and a mutual respect.

Check out this link. Copy and paste it into your URL:

https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2018/12/10/food-aggression-in-dogs.aspx

You can also join this Free Dog Training Workshop by Susan Garrett and her team.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/freedogtrainingworkshop/?epa=SEARCH_BOX
Jul 14, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Growling
by: Anonymous

Kala has always growl about food, just recently she she began to do it to Teddy (WPG) while I am around. However, Ma'awi has never show any aggresion, growling or barking towards no one or me. I forgot to mention that Kala is also in heat (she wears a big diaper).

Our vet told us to wait till 2yo old or third heat to breed them. Now I am not sure I should breed them if they both are this way. Could this be just because of that?

I will let them growl and do some positive reinforcement. I understand my behavior was driven by fear and that was a big mistake of mine. I need to control myself if I want this to work and react in a positive way. I guess I was just shocked that Ma'awi did that when he is the most cool and collected dog I have.

He respects commands, Never go inside the house unless I told him. He is stubborn but always act like a puppy and he can be pushy asking for love and pet time. He will walk with me and will suddenly rolled over so I scratch his belly while upside down and sticking his tongue out :P. He literally surprised me yesterday.

Thank you sooo much for your reply and link, I requested to join the group and will read into the other link.
Jul 14, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		breeding
by: anon

Please don't breed your dogs. get them spayed/neutered.

The National Pyr Rescue is full of dogs people no longer want. If you want another dog, please adopt.

https://www.nationalpyr.org/adoptable-dogs
Jul 14, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stop Breeding!
by: Tiffany K

You cannot manage the GP(s) you have- and you are contemplating breeding?

Are you cruel or obtuse?

People like you are why I have to charge thousands of dollars of vet bills on my credit cards for dogs no one wanted- including a GP.

I don’t know where you are obtaining your vet information but the wait to neuter and spay argument after breeding is obsolete and ridiculous.

Millions of dogs in America are killed every year because of breeding.

Why would you contribute to this heartbreaking atrocity?

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