Guarding ducks

We rescued a Great Pyrenees 2 years ago and he has been a wonderful addition family. We extended the fence in our yard to cover about an acre, but that wasn't enough for Baxter. He dug holes underneath and all my little dogs got out as well. We fenced in an area around our barn where he spends part of the day, I take him on walks and hikes a few times a week, but that doesn't seem to be enough to satisfy him.

My husband and I were thinking of adding a few ducks to our family to give Baxter something to do. Will he instinctively know to guard them or will he walk away or even worse kill them?
I wake each day wondering what I can do to make him happy. Thank you, I look forward to you reply.

Anne

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Mar 31, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Donna
by: Guarding Ducks

That is the Pyr. Man bred them to wander with their herds/flocks and be independent thinkers. Give then 1 acres they'll take ten. That's the way it is. He'll be fine. It's instinct to wander. You just need to contain him.

But, having a job is always nice for these natural guardians. Does he have the temperament for work do you think?

You would need to train him with ducks. They flutter and move around differently from sheep etc. But, all Pyrs need to be trained to different livestock.

He can't be alone with them until he shows he has taken a liking to them. When working in the yard, keep him leashed to you and if he goes to try anything, check him and 'ah ah'.

When you aren't there, keep him in a pen where he is close to the ducks just to get used to them. He knows how to do the guarding part it's just whether he'll take to ducks.

There is no guarantee it will work but you never know and won't know until you try.
Nov 24, 2017
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starstarstarstar 		Room to roam
by: Anonymous

I have 1,500 acers for mine and she likes the space, based on my 16 years of ownership of this breed, they will stake out an area of THEIR choosing and will defend it beyond your expectations. As far as being protective of other livestock (especially domesticated ones) introduce them and interact with them in a group setting and you will have no problems. Some will dig holes as a way to cool off, not much you can do about it because.....they are seeking a way to cool their core temp.In my opinion you have one of the absolute best breads of dogs you will ever own,but each has their own distinct personality but the will give you unconditional love if you will do the same

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