Protect against human intruder?

by Nicole
(Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.)

Hello! I am the owner of an incredible 7-yr-old pyr rescue named Max who I absolutely ADORE. (I've been ruined for life...I don't think I can ever get another breed!) I've read stories of the pyr instinct that comes out when there is a threat, and I definitely do see that side of him from time to time. However, we live in the suburbs with a large yard, not the country. His temperament has always seemed to be 100% pyr, and I'm very confident he would guard against bears/coyotes/other threatening wild animals.

My question: Do you think that a pyr would recognize a human intruder as a threat and act?

For instance, if I or another family member (part of the "flock") were being physically attacked by another strange human, would he (or pyrs in general) act/fight to protect us? I know that generally pyrs are not supposed to be aggressive toward humans, but I also know they instinctively protect. Occasionally, I'll see him growl at a human who is a bit sketchy/strange, but he's generally friendly & tolerable with other people, like I believe pyrs are intended to be. (Sorry for the long question--trying to be comprehensive.)

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Jan 18, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		Guardian Dogs
by: Donna

Yes. Most definitely they would not allow uninvited/unknown people onto their property--in most cases.

Pyrs don't like to have to attack or kill. Their size and bark can be enough to ward off predators including uninvited humans.

If the uninvited human keeps approaching after the bark doesn't stop them, the dog will become very still and position themselves next to this human, and a very low growl can be heard. Generally, the person will back off and head back from whence they came.

Know that Pyrs are known to be aloof in many cases but that's because their energy goes towards watching and listening to what is going on around them.
Jan 18, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		Attack
by: Ck In va

I have had 3 rescues and like all dog's each is very different. Our 10 year old loves people except when in a vehicle or the house. My 3 year old only chances birds? But did bite me witch was my fault cus I took food from his mouth. My fault. What I mean is be very careful and pay close attention to there actions and how they respond to different situations. Always stay alert. Just never know what bad they have been through.
Jan 18, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		excellent question
by: Anonymous

This is an excellent question and not one you would want to have an answer to after the fact!
Our Pyr has shown us exactly how they react in a situation were he was surprised by the sudden appearance of someone looking in the door window. His posture is powerful. No one opens that door uninvited.
Once when he was asleep on the deck a neighbor quietly came to talk to my husband....our 'sleeping beauty' instantly jumped to his feet with a roar like a lion. Stood his ground. I stepped out quietly to put my hand on him and he turned his body sideways across me. Our dog knows our neighbor well and likes him too. But we are his #1 responsibility and there are no 'ifs', 'buts' or 'maybes' about it. Personally, I have complete confidence he would do whatever he had to, to protect us from harm. Not a question.
This who they are. The speed of the reaction is jaw dropping. But always, complete self control. They only do as much as is required to safeguard their flock. Amazing.
Feb 12, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Not Attackers. Guarders.
by: Anonymous

My young great pry bit someone who entered my home when I was gone. The dog didn't run at the intruder like a German Shepherd would. He, instead, blocked the person from going further than the kitchen. Once the intruder tried to pass that point, he got a crushed forearm and 12 stitches. The guy said if he would have left the house, the dog would have left him alone. A great example of a Pyrenees staying with what it guards and not being led away from what it is supposed to defend.5x the bite of a Pit is no joking matter.

{Pyrs will usually do everything they can to avoid biting.}

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