I’ll be honest from the start. Despite the challenges I’ve faced – which you’ll soon hear all about – I would adopt another one, or two of these dogs in a heartbeat! My husband and I fell in love with our Great Pyrenees and Lab mix, Bandit, from the moment we saw him at the shelter, and we couldn’t wait to take him home.
However, we were caught off guard as first-time dog owners, and we didn’t do much research before adopting him. We had to learn the hard way, and it took us almost a year to adjust to our new responsibilities as dog parents. But, now that we’ve overcome the obstacles, I’d like to impart some of my knowledge to those considering adopting a Great Pyrenees.
1. Cleaning up their diarrhea humbles you.
If you want to experience true humility, clean up your Great Pyrenees’ diarrhea. But let’s be real, any dog’s diarrhea will do the trick. I’ve had the pleasure of cleaning up my pup’s mess not once, not twice, but three times! And let me tell you, nothing will make you feel more humbled than scrubbing your bedroom floor on a Wednesday night after a long day at work. And when you’re done, you can’t help but wonder what life choices led you to this moment.
But wait, there’s more! My husband and I have also found ourselves hosing down our dog’s backside in the middle of the night. Why, you ask? Well, we like to see our lighter-colored couch without any “surprises” left behind. It’s just one of the joys of owning a Great Pyrenees.
On a more serious note, this breed is prone to gastrointestinal issues, and it’s essential to monitor their diet and health. Additionally, their long fur can trap fecal matter, leading to hygiene issues. So, while cleaning up after your pup may not be glamorous, it’s a necessary part of being a responsible pet owner.
2. An off-leash Pyrenees is a disa-pyr.
These dogs were bred to be livestock guardians, which means they have an innate desire to roam and protect. They can cover miles of territory before even realizing that you’re not with them anymore. Putting it mildly, it can be a bit nerve-wracking when your furry companion decides to go off on their own adventure.
Take my pup Bandit, for example. One evening, he caught sight of a deer and decided to run after it, breaking free from his leash in the process. My poor husband chased after him for miles, but to no avail. We were starting to lose hope when, out of nowhere, Bandit reappeared. My husband swears it was pure coincidence, but I like to think that Bandit has some sort of inner GPS that led him back to us.
Now, I’m not saying that all Great Pyrenees will pull a Houdini on you, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Invest in a reliable leash and harness to keep them close by, or even consider getting a GPS locator. We’ve even attached an Apple AirTag to Bandit’s collar for added peace of mind during our nighttime walks.
But don’t let their wandering ways scare you away from adopting a Great Pyrenees. These dogs are incredibly loyal and loving, and they make fantastic companions. Just be prepared for the occasional adventure.
3. They’re naturally gross.
From shedding to muddy paws to food pebbles scattered throughout the house, be prepared to become a full-time cleaner for your furry friend. If you’re someone who needs a spotless home at all times, then a Great Pyrenees is not the dog for you.
But fear not, there are ways to manage the mess. An aggressive cleaning schedule or a trusty robot vacuum can help keep things under control. And if you really want to be prepared, keep a stock of Lysol wipes, gloves, and strong carpet cleaner on hand. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re cleaning up diarrhea for the first time – and if you haven’t read Number 1 yet, you might want to brace yourself.
All in all, Great Pyrenees might be naturally gross, but they’re also naturally lovable. So, if you’re willing to put up with a little bit of mess, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal and affectionate companion that will steal your heart (and your couch).
4. They’re hilarious.
Have you ever seen a Great Pyrenees roll around on their back, flailing their legs in the air like they’re having an existential crisis? Or how about when they try to fit their whole head into a tiny treat bag, only to get stuck and walk around with it on their head like a hat? These dogs are a walking comedy show.
But beware, capturing their hilarious moments on camera can become an addiction. You start with a quick video of them chasing their tail and before you know it, you’ve filled up your phone’s storage and you’re frantically deleting old photos to make room for more. And let’s be honest, you’ll never really be able to delete those videos, they’re just too funny.
But don’t let their humor fool you, Great Pyrenees are also incredibly intelligent dogs. They’re quick learners and can pick up on tricks and commands faster than you may think. So, while you’re busy laughing at their silly antics, they might just be plotting their next clever move.
5. They’re not exactly lightweight…
Great Pyrenees may not be the best option for those who skip leg day. These dogs are powerful and robust, so much so that they could send you flying with just one jump (at 5’4”, I know this all too well). And don’t even think about running away from them, because they’ll catch up to you in no time.
It’s a good thing they’re also incredibly lovable, so it’s hard to stay mad at them for long. Just make sure you have a good grip on your possessions and your balance when you’re around them.
6. They get sick, too.
Your furry friend may not speak, but they sure can communicate when they’re not feeling well. Keep an eye out for subtle (or not so subtle) cues that your Great Pyrenees might be under the weather. For example, if they’re not their usual energetic self, if they’re not eating or drinking normally, or if they’re experiencing digestive issues, it might be time for a vet visit. And don’t forget about preventative care, like vaccinations and routine check-ups, to keep your pup healthy and happy. Trust me, it’s much easier to prevent a health issue than to treat one. Plus, who wants to deal with a sick dog AND cleaning up diarrhea for days on end?
7. They don’t listen that well…
Great Pyrenees have selective hearing. You may find yourself repeating their name like a broken record with no response or a side eye at best. It’s like they have their own agenda.
Chasing your pet can be a fun workout or a nightmare. One minute you’re enjoying a relaxing walk in the park, the next thing you know, you’re sprinting after your Great Pyrenees who decided to chase after a squirrel. The chase may leave you feeling exhausted and frustrated, but don’t worry, it’s all part of the adventure.
If you want your Great Pyrenees to come when called, the secret is simple: treats! Just like how humans are motivated by food, dogs love a good treat. Train your dog with positive reinforcement and reward them with their favorite treat. Before you know it, they’ll be running towards you at full speed every time you call their name.
8. You become a better person because of them.
Having a pet can be a transformative experience that makes you a better person. It’s not just about the extra time and effort that goes into caring for them, like picking up their poo or filling their food bowls. It’s about the profound joy they bring into your life, and the way they inspire you to be a more patient, loving, and responsible human being.
And let’s be real, the compliments you get when you’re walking your dog are just an added bonus. Who doesn’t love being told how cute their furry friend is? But beyond the external validation, having a pet can help you cultivate a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for all living things.
So, if you’re on the fence about adopting a pet, take this as a sign to go for it. They will bring so much love and growth to your life.
Conclusion
Owning a Great Pyrenees, or any pet for that matter, comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. From their lovable personalities to their natural tendencies, owning a pet can be a truly enriching experience. It’s important to understand the responsibilities that come with being a pet owner, such as regular veterinary care and daily maintenance, but the joy and companionship they provide make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or a seasoned pro, the bond between you and your furry friend will undoubtedly be a special one. So, if you’re considering adopting a pet, take the plunge and give a loving animal a forever home.
What has been your experience with pets? Have they brought you joy and made you a better person? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below!
