Great Pyrenees question

[Roses]

We have free-ranging chickens. I lock them up at night. We were lucky for the first 9 months and didn't lose any, but I figured our luck would run out eventually, and it did. We live on 10 acres in Colorado with plenty of wildlife around. I had thought for a while on a dog. I was thinking a great pyrenees would be happy to be outside a lot, and could also be a family pet.

I adopted a 4 year old Great Pyrenees boy, and have a 2 week trial period. He used to live with goats. The thing is, he doesn't really like to be outside. He was severely matted so the shelter shaved him down to a quarter inch. Even when it is warm out though, he is only out for a few minutes before he wants to come in. Because he is missing his fur, I have to keep him inside for a while and can't train him to be outside. I don't really mind having him inside, but if I am going to have a mostly indoor dog, I think I'd rather have one that could be trained better(he isn't trained at all), sheds less, and maybe is smaller. I think I've decided to bring him back. He is very sweet, but he's not really serving his purpose. Maybe goats would be enough company for him outside, but chickens don't seem to do it for him. My question is, do great pyrenees usually like to stay outside on their own? Or is it just him? Should I just go for a mostly indoor dog and count on its presence to help with predators? I'd appreciate some feedback.

 

[gsim]

You can't tell what he will be until his coat comes back. You could do a doggie sweater for now since he is essentially naked . They are a breed accustomed to being outside 24-7. He just desires companionship and misses the goats. Another dog would be a good thing for him. Allow him time to become adjusted.

 

[cluckcluck42]

I'd give him a chance. Get him a little doggy sweater (or BIG in his case) and see if that helps. Just be strict about taking him outside. Is there anyway you could get him a goat? Free milk!!

 

[ruth]

Poor thing. He's probably just scared and confused. He's lost his original home and if he was used to living with his goat herd, he's lost his "friends", then depending on how long he was at the shelter or foster home, he's lost that too. Now he's in a new surrounding and being a bit clingy. Give him time.

As far as the coat, unless you live somewhere where it's freezing (or below) right now, he should be fine. I'm actually thinking of shaving my two GPs because those thick coats are just too much for them unless they get to live in snow and ice, which mine don't.

They make great livestock guard dogs and great pets but geeze the poor guy is so sad right now.

 

[brownlikewoah]

give it some time. Unless he has any underlying health conditions, his hair should grow about 1/2" - 1" a month I'd say. Maybe give him a kong toy with some treats in it when he is outside so he hangs out there more?

 

[rhodiegal]

Wow - I was jealous when I read your post because my Pyr abhors being inside. The second I let him in, he is at the door begging to get out - I think he gets too hot or something. Anyway, my Pyr stays out 24/7 with the chickens - I honestly don't know how people keep these giant bears in a house - though I know people do. The amount of hair that comes off of them is nothing but remarkable, plus they tend to drool a little and are hugely clutsy - knocking things over trying to fit around tables and such.

I wonder if your dog would grow to enjoy being outside after keeping him out for a while - maybe not even let him in at all b/c then he will grow used to the routine of staying in the house? I know you only have a two week trial period, but I would think it would just take some time for him to acclimate.

How is he with the chickens? I ask this b/c though they are instinctively protective of hooved animals, they tend to chase chickens 'playfully' and may have to be trained around poultry.

 

[Roses]

Thanks for all the responses. He is such a sweetie. I've thought before about getting a couple goats, but the thought of fencing put me off. I just read in this thread though, https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=187856 ,that goats can work with invisible fencing. I'll need to get invisible fencing for the dog anyways if I keep him, so I may get a couple of nigerian goats. He's got a fleece sweater on. I think you guys are right, its going to take more than 2 weeks to see how it goes. He is fine with the chickens and cats. He doesn't seem all that interested in the chickens, but doesn't mind when my daughter puts one on his back. He's very gentle. He's settled down the last couple of days. He is still inside most of the time, but he is happier. I tried letting him off the leash yesterday, and he bolted. That was a bit disconcerning. I'm still sitting on the decision.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

that goats can work with invisible fencing

Invisible fencing wont keep predators out.
If you dont put up a real fence, youre asking for trouble with the goats and the dog​

 

[Chook-A-Holic]

I personally don't have a LGD however several of my friends with sheep, chickens, and goats do. They do not allow anyone to play or interact with these animals. The dogs are part of the flock and treated as such. Seems to me it would be confusing for the dog to be guarding the flock one part of the day then brought into the house to play the other part. I feed the livestock for a farmer up the road when he goes on vacation and I have to lure the dogs into the barn and lock them in a stall until I'm finished feeding/caring for their flocks. Your dog will probably be fine once you get him a flock to bond to.

 

[pride&joy]

Quote:
Invisible fencing may not keep your GP from chasing head long after a pred (distraction). Training is a must before off leach work could be trusted if he spots a coyote or dog he will chase it down of until it’s far. On the bright side your supply off fresh eggs and milk will be kept safe and sound as in my opinion LGD’s are a very effective and environmentally sound way of predator control.