Those of us who run animal sanctuaries have long used Great Pyrenees as guardian dogs.

Here in the mountains of TN…bordered by a couple of huge state parks and national recreation areas…we have a pretty significant wild dog, coyote and even black bear population.

While the mature farm pigs are pretty immune from attack at 1200+ pounds, the potbellied pigs and smaller, younger farm pigs can often be considered for a posible meal by the dogs and coyotes…both of which hunt in packs.

The Great Pyrs are quite popular in this area as guardian dogs for sheep, goats, and other animals. They also work very well with the pigs who live in large, pristine areas of pastures and woods.

Unlike the Italian dogs, they don’t have to be imported from Europe. There are plenty available in the area from breeders or from Great Pyr rescue groups.

They are marvelous dogs and do a great job guarding the pigs. They are super protective of whatever animal they are raised with.

Unlike a “regular” dog which will run and bark in an attempt to intimidate and scare off an intruder, the Great Pyrs simply attack any threat they perceive. Most who use them, employ them in pairs.

Another popular “guardian animal” around here for smaller livestock is donkeys. They have a reputation for being fierce protectors of animals they live with.

Rich…..