Patting the gigantic fluffy canine basking in the sunlight, do you often wonder how easy or difficult it would be to train him? Well, that’s a question many prospective pet parents mull over when considering bringing home the regal, spirited, and hardy breed, the Great Pyrenees, whose imposing demeanor and size is a sight to behold!
Before we dive into specifics, it’s worth pointing out a rather fascinating fact! Did you know that the Great Pyrenees was originally used by shepherds in the steep, snowy Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain to protect their flocks from predators? These dogs were literally left alone with the sheep, miles from the nearest humans. This means they had to learn to think for themselves and make important decisions without any human input. Cool, isn’t it?
Now, this tells us that the breed is independent, and while that’s a commendable trait, it also comes with a unique set of challenges when you try to train them, especially for first-time dog owners.
Tothe untrained eye, a Great Pyrenees might seem stubborn. But stand in their paws for a moment. During centuries in the wilderness, these dogs have been hardwired to trust their instincts. They simply won’t comply if they can’t see a logical reason (in doggy world understanding, of course!) to follow a command. But don’t let it dishearten you. Any insurmountable tasks could be achieved with an understanding of the breed, persistence, and a bag full of their favorite treats!
Start Young and Keep Them Social: It’s easier to set habits young when they’re still malleable, and the same principle applies to our furry friends. Socializing your Great Pyrenees at a young age will help them differentiate friend from foe and act as an important step in proper training.
Persistence is Key: Familiarize your pet with a routine. A structured regimen of activities such as feeding, resting, and exercising will make life easier for you and your four-legged friend.
Positive Reinforcement Works Wonders: While their instinct might make them seem disobedient, Great Pyrenees respond incredibly well to positive reinforcement. Rather than reprimanding them for not following directions, reward them with treats, praises, and petting when they correctly follow your command.
Patience and Consistency: When training your Great Pyrenees, your two best friends will be patience and consistency. Repeating commands will reinforce the commands in their minds.
Train in Shorter Sessions: As thinkers, Great Pyrenees may get bored with long training sessions. Short bursts of training spread throughout the day may yield better results.
Last but certainly not least, remember that mutual respect and understanding go a long way. The majestic Great Pyrenees isn’t your usual lapdog. They’ve guarded flocks in harsh conditions, often pitted against predators, solely relying on their acumen. Respecting those instincts and building on them could turn your pet into not just an obedient companion, but a trustworthy and reliable partner.
But similar to ourselves, each dog is unique and so, ‘one size fits all’ does not apply here. Some Great Pyrenees may require more time and patience than others. Keep your approach flexible and adjust it to your dog’s individual personality and learning speed.
So, is a Great Pyrenees easy to train? The answer may not be a straightforward yes or no. It’s a task that requires dedication, patience, and a whole lot of love. But successfully training your Great Pyrenees will establish a bond like no other. One that’s based on mutual respect, understanding and bonded by love. Remember, at the end of the day, the love and loyalty these magnificent beasts would shower on you is worth all the effort you put into training them. Happy Training!
