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Congrats Aksmama! Pyrs are fantastic dogs, and I can even say that after mine have killed some of my chickens so you know they must be really special. I got mine at 3 months, they came from a working farm with all kinds of birds but as soon as they were away from the adult guardians they saw big, fluffy, chicken chew toys. They are now 1 year old and finally seem to be settling down a bit. But I realistically think it will be another year before they can work with my birds. They don't kill them anymore but given the chance they will hold them down and pull the feathers off of them. Your puppy will require an unreal amount of patience and I have a concern since you say your husband hates dogs. That a pretty strong comment and these dogs are hypersensitive. If your dog feels animosity from your husband there could very well be trouble. I have had german shephards, cocker spaniels, jack russells, beagles, chihuahuas, spitz - all kinds of dogs - in my life (and I love them all). But these are the smartest, most free thinking, stubborn, obstinate dogs I've ever worked with....ever! Sometimes I think I may not be smart enough to own them. Now keep in mind that I had my german shepherds and jack russells BEFORE I had chickens. These dogs now guard my chickens and share a yard with them. I never put a hand on the dogs, I believe in talking to them and using the fact that they love and respect me to get them to cooperate. That doesn't always work with the pyrs as they don't always CARE about what I think, imagine that! LOL They are really great at what they do though. And I would strongly recommend that if leaving your puppy with an adult working pyr is an option, you should go that route. I left mine with their parents just as long as I could. I tried to find another farm that would work with me, or loan me an adult dog, but that's hard to find. As for obedience training, the most important thing to teach while they're young (in my opinion) is "down" (they are jumpers), and walking on a leash and loading into a vehicle. After these dogs are grown, it's almost impossible to pick them up and put them in the car if they don't want you too. Unfortunately, both of my girls get carsick before we even get out of the driveway. They do not travel well and it makes vet visits a real chore. Don't expect an obedient dog, that seems to be the biggest disappointment with first time pyr owners. But you must remember that you don't want to train the "guardian" out of the dog. They must be free thinking to protect their charges and keep themselves safe. There are some fantastic stories about these wonderful dogs on the web. There's also some great pyrenees groups you could join and get great advice. Best of luck!! You are entering a new world, have fun. : )
Now to the S.C. chicken people - I have a request, do any of you raise Barnevelder chickens? I would love to find some fertile eggs, chicks or even an adult pair. Thanks!
