All Dog Breeds >>Temprament of Great Pyrenees
This giant, gorgeous dog was bred to be a guard dog and has strong territorial instincts. And the Great Pyrenees defines his territory as "as far as his eye can see." He will run off if not contained by a fence or leash. These dogs were bred to think independently and to make decisions on their own, so if you are looking for an obedience champion who hangs on your every word, the Pyrenees probably isn't it.
But they are good watchdogs and will bark to raise the alarm of someone on their turf. They are protective, even possessive, of their family, property, and livestock. This dog will make protecting you his life goal. He will want to be with you as much as possible so that he can know where you are and what you are doing at all times. The sheer size of them is enough to deter evildoers, and they have a unique ability to tell friend from foe. They have a deep, booming bark. They are expert barkers.
They bark at things you will never even know exist, especially at night, when your neighbors are trying to sleep. Early obedience training is necessary, because you do not want to end up in a wrestling match with a giant Pyrenees. Yet, don't expect miracles. Pyrs don't usually excel at obedience training, and due to a combination of lethargy and stubbornness, they tend to take their sweet time obeying your commands.
They like to see what they can get away with. Great Pyrenees do well with children and seem to have a built-in sense of responsibility for watching over them. Of course, all children need to be taught how to behave around dogs. The Pyrenees are loving and affectionate with their families: gentle, patient, and calm. They get along well with other dogs and household pets. (They don't get along with same-sex dogs and can be aggressive with them.) They are remarkably sensitive and sympathetic to your emotions and will comfort you when you need it. In turn, they require affection, kindness and human companionship.
A bored or lonesome Pyr can be destructive. Pyrs should be exercised daily and they make great walking partners, as they tend to walk along beside you calmly instead of pulling you across town. The Great Pyranees is intelligent, dependable, confident, brave, devoted, sweet, stubborn, and really tall, so don't keep your steaks thawing on the counter.