Re: [PyrNet-L] If Pyrs were easy to train...(Long)

[JGentzel@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/6/98 4:50:40 PM Eastern Standard Time, UTILITYK9@aol.com
writes:

<< This is not to say they can't be trained. >>

I really cannot add anything to the training as I have no interest or
experience.  Intellectually I am interested in how the breed reacts, but no
interest in pursuing it myself with our dogs.  

When you look at a Pyr from a historical view point it is not surprising that
they are more self directed and possibly difficult to train in the current
sense of the term. They have been successfully left with their charges for
periods of time without any doubt that they would remain with them and take
care of them.  These qualities evolved over a very long period of time and was
a natural functional selection via the Shepherds that bred the dogs.  This
competition training as we know it is really more an urban practice
(absolutely no criticism meant).  It is necessary for our urban dogs, but
foreign to them nonetheless. 

Historically the breed probably evolved from a common ancestor(s) to the other
Great White Guardians, who ended up being primarily Mountain dogs.  Possibly
this/these ancestor(s)  was also a common ancestor of many mastiffs.  The Pyr
might also have some sighthound ancestry or connection (they certainly did
leave the prey drive behind).  We are talking some 5,000 years ago.  So a lot
can and did happen.  With these variables the dog was able to work
independently and had the qualities of a completely overriding guardian
instinct.  They also had the ability to stand and fight when required, a
esxtremely hight threshold for pain, a focus on their job that is
unbelievable, and almost completely instinct driven.  They also have a sence
of love and duty that is unsurpassed.  

So here we come wanting to redirect this instinct that makes them always guard
and their MO for doing so is to know everything that is going on around them
at all times.  Ever thought your dog did not know what was happening to
suddenly see them spring into action.  They know whats happening around them
and are not easily distracted.  Anyway we want them to now focus only on what
this new activity is and suppress for a short time the  other very overriding
and ancient instincts.  They would do anything they could to please us, but
have those instincts that are so ingrained.  I don't see the training as
harmful to them, just foreign.  I am sure they enjoy the attention, but if you
expect them to stay down for the long stay when their natural instincts tell
them to get up and go to their master or their child, or even check out
something elsewhere, good luck.  

Joe