Temperament

In the section of the Great Pyrenees Standard titled; "Temperament" we find the following information.

"He possesses a keen intelligence and a kindly, while regal, expression. Character and temperament are of utmost importance. In nature, the Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle and affectionate. While territorial and protective of his flock or family when necessary, his general demeanor is one of quiet composure, both patient and tolerant. He is strong willed, independent and somewhat reserved, yet attentive, fearless and loyal to his charges, both human and animal.

Although the Great Pyrenees may appear reserved in the show ring, any sign of excessive shyness, nervousness, or aggression to humans is unacceptable and must be considered an extremely serious fault."

The consistent characteristics of the Great Pyrenees appear in the writings of those who spent lifetimes involved with the breed. They are: Self-confidence, Intelligence, Gentleness, Patience, and Courage. Edith K. Smith of Quibbletown Kennels wrote the following in her book; "How to Raise and Train a Great Pyrenees."

"Only after one has come to know the Great Pyrenees and his unique history does it become apparent that the breed's true and greatest value is not in beauty but in the admirable and unique character of the dog."

The Great Pyrenees has proven throughout the years that aggression is to be used only as a last resort and to do this he must be able to process information based upon the unique situations presented to him. He is trained most effectively with praise and positive reinforcement. Physical punishment should not be necessary when trained by an intelligent and caring human. In all writings of those who have maintained the breed, both in Europe and the United States, is a concurrence of opinion that these dogs are especially suited for children as they are both gentle and courageous. Mr. Harold T. Allen, a founding member of the GPCA, an AKC judge, and manager for both the Milanollo Kennel in England and Basquaerie Kennels in the United States, writes in an article titled, "The Pyrenean Dog - His Care and Feeding" the following:

".....After twenty-five years of experience with many breeds, I feel justified in saying that for intelligence, affection, companionship, courage and dependability, a Great Pyrenees properly bred and handled is the ideal dog for children, .....His courage is controlled and directed by a keen, discriminating intelligence. He is never afflicted with brain storms."

The Great Pyrenees have required a great deal of my time and energy over the years and when I contemplate why, the answer is always the same. It is the indomitable spirit of real strength, born of courage to be gentle, loving, patient, and courageous inherent in the Great Pyrenees that I have found to be a joy and a necessity as I go forward through life and its challenges.

It is the primary responsibility of those who contemplate forming new litters of Pyrenees puppies to maintain that to which so many have zealously guarded with their time and energy over the years. Namely, the noble character and temperament of the Great Pyrenees. No matter how beautiful, or how often the dog is able to win in the show ring, if it does not have the calm, gentle, self-confidence that sets this breed apart from the rest, it is not a Great Pyrenees.

Summerhill's Rising Son (rehomed at 2 yrs) with one of his pals, Admiral Big Bear