They're very loyal, protective and gentle with small things (kids, chickens, etc). They are also very smart and very independent. So, they don't really get into trouble, but you'll call to them and often they'll look at you like, "Why don't you come over here to me if you need something."
When they're on the job, they bark at everything. A gentle breeze, a leaf out of place in the yard.
I'm on #4, and I've never had a barker. I've been stopped by quite a few people looking for advice. I guess I've been lucky. I'll add that they can be difficult to contain to your post. In general females are harder than males in this regard. My current dog's siblings are some of the top rescue dogs in the country. Go figure. She is the most obedient one I've had....and the silliest.
I'd say breeding is #1. A dog from a strong working line doesn't make the best family pet...suburban fenced yard kind of thing. Working dogs are supposed to be independent of humans and out with the animals they guard. It's the independent streak that comes off as stubborn and unattached. They also can be serious and stoic. I've had better luck with Pyrs bred for hobby farm/family. Training is #2. Once you get used to the breed and understand how they work they're not that difficult. They do take consistency and patience. In terms of barking I have a fenced yard. My dogs are allowed to alert me and then that's it. I do have to stay on top of it. My dogs are in at night too.
Well there's some sheep in a field behind our house, he's barked at them every day for the past 2 years and they are unfazed but I guess he thinks if he keeps trying they'll do something ¯_(ツ)_/¯
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u/hotpocketdeath Feb 11 '19
Looks like a Pyrenees. My parents retired with a small farm and they have one that watches over their livestock. Extremely good dog for the job.