The Dogo Argentino is known – not only for his impressive appearance – but also his fierce hunting instincts and devoted nature towards his family. The breed was created in the early 1900’s by two brothers who set out to create “the ultimate big game hound” for the rugged Argentinian countryside. Using the (now extinct) Fighting Dog of Cordoba, they added at least 9 other breeds ranging from several other molosser breeds, to the Pointer, to the Irish Wolfhound.

Because the Dogo is an endurance hound, he possesses both physical as well as mental capabilities of tracking and hunting wild boar throughout the day. While he can sprint fast if needed, he can sustain a slower gallop for longer periods of time. For potential owners, this means they must be able to give this dog the vast exercise that he needs – a tough task for many! He also must be given a job to do in order to exercise his mind as well. A versatile breed – one doesn’t necessarily need to hunt boar with their Dogo. Tracking, schutzhund, obedience, and search and rescue are popular outlets for Dogos around the world. In Argentina he has been used in both military and police work, as well as a guide dog for the blind!

Some might be surprised to know that this powerhouse of a dog also possesses a distinctly sensitive nature and will show almost human-like concern towards his owners, especially children. The Dogo Argentino wants most to be near his family at all times and prefers to lay where he can see (if not even touch) them at all times. He is friendly towards new people however if need be, he will defend that family to the death if the situation arises. He should never be needlessly aggressive, however, and most have very steady and almost humble temperaments.

Dogos are a slow-maturing breed, particularly the males. It may take up to 3 years before they are fully mature. While not hyperactive, young Dogos are very curious and inquisitive – sometimes getting into things they shouldn’t. Early obedience and supervision is necessary to curb any possible destruction that could arise from these traits! Other than this, the breed is fairly laid-back and enjoys happily laying on the couch in his free time (provided he has been given enough exercise).

Dogo Argentinos are always solid white in color (although may have a small black patch on the head), and white dogs are known to frequently have sensitive skin. Care must be taken with the shampoo that is chosen, however other than that the grooming is simple. Their sensitive skin also makes more prone to sunburn. One more trait often seen with all white dogs… about 10% of Dogos are born deaf. A potential buyer should be prepared to obtain their dog from a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs and can provide proof that the puppy has normal hearing.

Very intelligent, the Dogo takes quite well to training, including housebreaking. Many members of the breed find obedience exciting – both in the task itself as well as pleasing their owners! One caveat though, they can be exceptionally distracted by interesting smells – a throwback to their hunting genes. It is up to the owner or trainer to make sure to keep the training positive without letting the dog take over and decide to follow a scent instead – there must be a balance of being firm yet fun. Too much firmness could result in extra stubbornness from the dog but too much “fun” could result in the dog completely blowing you off! It goes without saying that such a large, strong breed must have obedience training from puppy-hood.

The Dogo Argentino was built to be tough and agile. He needed to withstand not only getting scratched up in the field, but potentially getting majorly wounded by the boar or puma that he hunted. He was also built to be a silent hunter – not warning his prey that he was near. When it comes to protecting his family, many Dogos use both of these traits. He will naturally protect anything that he thinks is his, which also includes the person’s house, belongings and car. It is of utmost importance that he be raised with rules, boundaries, and obedience training so that these natural traits don’t get out of hand.

Photo By Zeballos

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a versatile working breed, capable of being a fantastic companion for the right owner. These large, big-boned workhorses have a lot of strength and were originally designed as all-around farm dogs. As such, they do best when living with owners who will give them a job (or several jobs) to keep them mentally and physically fit. Swissies are a confident breed that are both strong and agile. Their sheer size and intimidating appearance means that even the smallest owner will feel safe when walking with them late at night. Despite their large frame and serious nature, however, they are gentle and polite even with children.

Swissies are often enthusiastic and happy. They love to be around people and to meet new friends, and many don’t realize their large size makes them difficult lap dogs. This means that young dogs might be a bit too much to handle for frail or elderly owners… at least until they are trained. They should also be socialized as young puppies in order to grow into their unshakeable temperaments, although many require less socialization than other breeds. When trained and socialized, these dogs are usually unfazed by new situations. Additionally, most get along great with other dogs as well as other pets (although same-sex aggression is something to watch out for).

The Greater Swiss is usually active in short bursts throughout the day. He is not a lazy dog, nor is he on-the-go constantly, provided he gets the required exercise. This means he is adaptable to many different living situations (although he doesn’t tend to thrive in apartments). Usually, the more active the family – the more active the dog because he always wants to be in the middle of the action, if at all possible. Younger dogs have more energy – and will mature slowly both physically and mentally. So while a puppy will take about a year and a half to grow to his full height, it will take even longer before his brain “slows down”. Owners should be cautious about giving a puppy too much forced exercise, however, as doing so can be physically taxing to his joints.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are territorial and make great watchdogs. They will bark to alert when people come on the property. They will also bark when they notice anything out-of-place, which means they can be a loud breed in certain homes. They are not guard dogs, however. It takes a lot for a Swissy to actually bite someone, and they will do their best to keep a bite as a last resort. Most owners rely on their dogs intimidating presence to be a deterrent to intruders, rather than counting on them to actually defend them from a robbery.

Swissies were bred to work with people and therefore expect to have structure and rules placed upon them. It is a good idea to obedience train every breed, but Swissies tend to take extra-well to being trained as they have strong work ethics. Many of them are submissive in nature and love to be given instruction, although others have more of a dominant personality. It depends on the dog. In homes where the owner does not take on a leadership role, Swissies tend to become stressed. They will take on the role themselves, although most don’t want to. Work with them from the time they are puppies to satiate this need, as well as to curtail potential issues such as leash-pulling. The versatile nature of this breed means that they thrive when working in many different events such as obedience, agility, herding, draft work, conformation, rally, tracking, backpacking and weight pulling. The list goes on and on… 

Some Greater Swiss have high prey drives while others have less. The high-drive dogs are often more apt to chase smaller animals, and so should be taught from an early age that this is not allowed. This may also translate to chasing small children – therefore training and supervision is highly recommended for families that have toddlers. A strong fence is a requirement of many Swissy breeders because the instinct to chase small animals can be so high. Dogs with a higher prey drive are usually dogs that also have high herding drives – those particular individuals do much better when allowed to fulfill this need. Whether herding, pulling carts or working in another manner, it is important to remember that Swissies are working dogs first and foremost. They are not decorations and must be given jobs to fulfill.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have short, easy-to-care-for coats although it is worth noting that these dogs do shed year-round. Their tricolor double coats have a couple of heavy shedding seasons (often in the spring and fall) with a low, constant shed in all other times of the year. Keeping the dog brushed out will help somewhat. As with all other breeds, keep the nails trimmed, teeth cleaned, and check the ears regularly to make sure they’re clean as well. Luckily, the Swissy’s coat doesn’t hold on to dirt for very long and therefore doesn’t have too strong of a doggy odor.

Swissies don’t tend to handle heat very well and should be monitored closely when outside on hot days. This means that they should never spend too long outside in hot Texas summers, nor should they be exercised in the middle of the day when the temperature is too warm. If you feel like you need to be inside with your air conditioning… so should your Swissy! These dogs do much better when living inside with the family anyway – they don’t do well when kept kenneled or out in the yard all day.

The Greater Swiss is generally a healthy breed but there are a few health problems that are seem occasionally, such as hip dysplasia and other orthopedic ailments, epilepsy and bloat. Make sure to buy from a reputable breeder who health tests the parents, rather than buying from a pet store or backyard breeder. This won’t eliminate your chances of getting a puppy with a health defect, but it will lessen the chances. Bloat, in particular, is a condition that many large, deep-chested breeds are prone to.

Due to their working nature and high need for activity and a job, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are not a good choice for those who have never before owned a dog. They can be pushy and even bossy with individuals who don’t know what they’re doing. They must be worked regularly, and their sometimes sensitive nature means they must be treated fairly. They always want to be in the middle of the action – regardless of whether or not they’re in the way. Finally, they can be agonizingly slow to housebreak. For experienced owners who put the time in, however, the Swissy is a dependable and loyal companion.

The Great Dane is the national breed of Germany and holds a proud heritage as a boar-hunting dog. Rarely used for this original purpose nowadays, today they serve as both guard dogs and companions. Despite their giant size, this friendly breed is incredibly loving and gentle – making them excellent pets. Prospective owners should be prepared to socialize them extensively as puppies, and lay down firm household rules, if they expect them to reach their full potential. Well-socialized Danes are friendly and love to meet new people, although will retain a protective instinct when the situation calls for it.

Although they have been used as estate guards, Danes should never be expected to live completely outside. These are social animals that need plenty of indoor time with the family. When they are outside for play and potty time they should be kept in a secure fenced yard. Danes do best in homes that have enough room for them to stretch their legs, both inside and outside. This giant breed may also need a bigger-than-average car to ride around in. It can be difficult to fit a Dane into a compact car for vet trips! Upgrading the car is only one of the expenses of owning a giant dog – they eat more and generally cost more to maintain than smaller breeds.

Great Danes get along very well with children, although the children must be need to be taught to be polite (as with all dogs). Because of their size, it is not unusual for a Dane to knock over a toddler accidentally while zooming around. Parents of small children must supervise all interactions to be sure that nobody gets hurt. Because of their patience, most Danes are still able to live with even young children provided that the parents keep a steady watch, and know that a young dog is still likely to knock the kid down every now and again.

Unfortunately, Danes are predisposed to a number of health conditions including bloat, which is the #1 killer of the breed. Bloat involves the stomach filling with gas and then twisting, cutting off the blood supply. Studies have shown that bloat seems to have a genetic component, although there are certain environmental factors that also often come into play – such as exercising the dog right before or after eating. Danes are also at risk of cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia, which means that puppies should only be acquired through reputable breeders that run health tests before breeding. Puppies bought from pet shops and backyard breeders are much more likely to have health issues. The average life expectancy of most Danes is 7-10 years.

Like most puppies, Great Danes can be destructive when they are young. The difference is… their size means that they can do a lot more damage to a house! It is not unheard of for an adolescent Dane to destroy couches, walls and doors while they were left alone unsupervised. For this reason, crate training is highly recommended, at least until they reach an age where they are less destructive.  In addition, obedience training is an absolute must. A dog this big with no training or manners can be a disaster or even a liability to live with. Luckily, most Danes are eager to please and love learning! Although they tend to have stubborn streaks, overall this breed is quite trainable as long as the owner is consistent and understands that Danes may take a little bit longer than the “standard obedience breeds”.

Danes are athletic dogs requiring daily exercise. Despite their mellow nature, this is an energetic breed although most will not exercise themselves, even if they have a large yard. This means the owner needs to commit to regular walks. The one exception to this rule is when it comes to puppies. A puppy’s joints are not formed completely until they grow older, and therefore they should not be given forced exercise until the growth plates have closed. Furthermore, Danes shouldn’t be taken jogging until they are at least two years old. Although adults should ideally be walked at least once, if not several times a day, the walks do not need to be strenuous.

The smooth coat of the Great Dane doesn’t shed very much and is easy to care for. Twice a year the dog will blow the coat, meaning that there is more shedding, but this is rarely a problem for the majority of people as long as they increase the brushing during this time. Baths only need to be given when needed, and take very little time. Danes also need their nails trimmed throughout the month so as to not scratch floors and people. All in all, they are very low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

Danes come in six recognizable colors – fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin (black patches on a white background) and mantle (black and white, marked like a Boston Terrier). Any other color is considered a disqualification. While mis-marks can show up in a litter, a prospective buyer should be wary of breeders intentionally breeding non-standard colors. Some colors, such as solid white, come with additional health problems so it’s best to buy only from responsible breeders who don’t breed strictly for “rare colors”.

Photo By Melissa

The Saint Bernard, in all his giant glory, is truly a stunning sight to behold! These gentle giants make loving companions for those who have the money, strength and living space to take care of one of these huge dogs. Remember before you buy that teddy-bear-like puppy that you will be buying a dog who may end up being the same size as you (males can reach 180 pounds)! A common reason for Saints to end up in rescue was the owner not realizing how big a commitment their size would actually be. Researching a breed before buying is so important.

Saints also shed… a lot. Although they come in two coat types, rough and smooth – both varieties of dog will leave hair clumps throughout the house. Between this and their propensity to drool, they do not make good matches for neat freaks! Although some breeders claim that their dogs are “dry-mouthed” and therefore not prone to slobber, this is rarely ever the case. The dogs might drool less, but they will still drool. When it comes to grooming – although both coats will need regular care, the smooth variety is a little easier to maintain. Interestingly enough, all Saint Bernards used to be short-haired but Monks from Switzerland used Newfoundlands to introduce new bloodlines and that gave us the longhaired dogs seen today!

Saint Bernards are not as active as many other breeds of dog and therefore do not eat as much food as one might think. Plan on feeding about the same amount as you might feed a large breed. Although younger dogs might eat more while they are still growing, it normally evens out as they get older. Saints can take up to 3 years to fully mature. Because of their fairly sedentary nature, the breed doesn’t require huge tracts of land to live on. They will be happy and well-exercised as long as they are provided with walks and enough space to stretch their legs at least once a day.

The Saint is usually excellent with children. Most are very gentle and patient – even playful – leading to many people referring to them as “nanny dogs”. Although this may sound great, it is never suggested to leave a dog unsupervised alone with small kids. Furthermore make sure the kids don’t take advantage of the dog’s good nature, as that’s just not fair for the dog. Bullying or teasing should never be allowed. 

Because the Saint Bernard will grow into a giant dog, obedience training must be a priority! It is much, much better to start while the dog is still a puppy rather than waiting until he might be able to overpower you. Luckily, unlike some molosser-type breeds, the Saint does not tend toward being dominant and instead takes very easily to training. Use his inquisitive nature to grab and hold his interest!

Many Saints make good watchdogs as they will bark to alert when people come near the house, but his jovial nature does not lend to him actually guarding the house. Very friendly with strangers, most are just excited to meet someone new – regardless of whether or not the person is a friend or a burglar. This said, if an owner is being outright threatened, some Saints will defend the person they love. All in all, they have stable temperaments but are usually enough of a size deterrent to keep most criminals away.

Saint Bernards, although developed in the cold region of Switzerland, are able to live in most climates as long as their needs are met. Keeping the coat brushed out to provide them insulation and air-flow to the skin, and making sure they always have access to shade and water, are two ways to keep them happy in warmer weather. It is also very important to never put them in a situation where they go from one temperature extreme into another – they need a bit of adjusting time. Keeping a Saint safe in hot temperatures as well as lowering a Saint’s risk for bloat (a condition wherein the stomach fills with gas) are the two major health goals an owner needs to be aware of with this breed. Although they are generally healthy otherwise, these two factors must be monitored. As with most giant breeds, be aware that the lifespan of a healthy Saint Bernard is 8-10.

The Kuvasz is a livestock guardian dog from Hungary. Like most LGDs, they require a specific type of owner who can provide them with the structure and care that they need. Unlike herding dogs, livestock guardians would work alone (without people) and watch the flock. They took this job seriously, and if not provided a flock will instead watch over the owner or family in the same way. This bold, fearless breed is sensitive to any change in their surroundings and will alert you to anything that seems “off” – even something as innocent as rearranged furniture!

The Kuvasz thrives when given plenty of room, such as living in a rural home with a big yard. The home should have a secure, 6 foot fence around the perimeter. Most do not make good apartment dogs because they are far to concerned with the constant barrage of people moving outside the building, and can become nuisance barkers with frustration issues. Neither do they make good pets for those who work all day. Remember, they need something to watch over and if they don’t have a flock, you are that flock! With no one at home, they can develop anxiety and become destructive.

These always-white dogs have a lot of coat to keep brushed out and free from knots – and yes, they do shed! Despite this, however, their coat tends to repel dirt and they don’t require frequent baths unless being shown. It’s no surprise with their thick coats that these dogs love cold weather. They can live in warmer climates although their coat might not grow as long or thick. In general, the Kuvasz is a hardy and healthy breed, often living from 10-12 years on average with some living longer. Hip dysplasia, thyroid disorder and an eye condition called PRA are the health conditions most often seen – so make sure the breeder does health tests.

Despite their independent nature (actually, because of it) they must be socialized from an early age and given obedience training throughout their lives. As they can be slow to mature and even stubborn, an owner must be patient with the process. They do best with lots of praise and treats combined with fair discipline. Because long training sessions can bore them, they do better with plenty of short, consistent sessions throughout the day. Although not often seen in the obedience ring, the Kuvasz can still compete and do well in obedience as well as agility, carting, and other sports!

The Kuvasz makes an excellent companion for children, provided that they are raised with kids. As with the rest of the family, they can be incredibly gentle and sweet to kids although not overly demonstrative. They may have a harder time accepting kids if they never met one in puppyhood. They may also have a harder time with unfamiliar children that come to the house (they tend to be wary of any strangers entering their property). Supervision is always recommended, as well as teaching the kids the proper way to interact with dogs. This breed also may have a hard time being friendly with strange dogs.

The Kuvasz is not the best breed for a first-time dog owner. They require someone experienced in handling dominant breeds. Although they are intensely loyal, they are also fiercely protective which can result in a dog becoming dangerous in the wrong hands. Furthermore, they do not have the easygoing, willing-to-please attitude that many new owners expect from a dog. They are very independent and strong-willed, making them more difficult to train than a sporting or herding breed. Finally, their giant size and incredible strength makes them more dog than many people are able to handle!

While not incredibly active indoors, they still tend to have more energy than other breeds of their size. After all, they were bred to patrol large outdoor areas throughout the day – a trait which required a lot of stamina. The Kuvasz definitely requires daily exercise to keep him healthy and happy. Walks are good although jogging and hiking are even better! The amount of time he will need to spend exercising is another good reason to socialize him early – he will probably meet many strangers when out in public and a well-socialized Kuvasz should be reserved but never aggressive or timid. Socialization will not curb his natural guarding ability, but it will prevent him from becoming a liability.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is unlike every other breed in terms of appearance and temperament. These ancient dogs were first used in Roman fighting games, and then were later employed to hunt wild boar and guard castles. The dogs needed a powerful stature in order to accomplish these tasks, which explains the breed’s massive frame. Today they make awe-inspiring home guardians who will protect their properties with courage and loyalty. Neos are not prone to wander – instead they tend to stay in their home turf and keep watch over their territory. Nevertheless, this isn’t a breed to keep outside all day and use as a “threat deterrent”. This owner-loving breed needs to spend time inside while being given training, structure and affection.

Like most guarding breeds, Neos are incredibly devoted and loyal to their families. Although they will bring down an enemy if needed, they should never behave aggressively toward their owners or anyone else who poses no threat. They should have steady temperaments, however they normally don’t like strangers coming into their personal space. This is not a dog who will appreciate being “surprise-hugged” by someone he doesn’t know. Keep in mind that the numerous loose wrinkles around the head gives him limited vision – any stranger coming up to say hello should do so from the front so the dog isn’t surprised. A normal reaction to a stranger is aloofness and slight wariness without being shy.

Neapolitan Mastiffs tend toward being dominant, which is fine as long as they don’t try to dominate any human members of the family. For a dog of this size, this could be a major problem! Some Neos are prone to jealousy issues (because they bond so strongly to their owners) and some are prone to being over-territorial. Obedience training is an absolute must with this breed, as well as socialization from an early age. Even if the dog never shows any dominant traits, a 150 pound dog can be stubborn and difficult to control if he has never been taught any manners or rules! Hence… obedience training. A common behavioral disorder often suffered by members of the breed is separation anxiety, although early training can help with this frustrating condition.

The Neo does not always get along well with other dogs, particularly dogs of the same sex. While they do best in single-dog households, some do ok with an opposite-sex friend but there are many factors to keep in mind. The age, temperament, and amount of previous socialization of each dog are particularly important. One may not know whether or not there will be a problem until the Neo reaches 2 or 3 years old. On the other hand, this giant breed can live easily with children, provided the child is slightly older and won’t get hurt if they are knocked over. Neos may be more wary of strange children coming over, just as they are wary of strange adults coming onto their territory. When children are involved, obedience training is even more important. Without rules or boundaries, the breed may become jealous having to share attention with a kid. Do not let this get out of control.

Neapolitan Mastiffs are prone to several health problems including heart disease, bloat, bone cancer, and chronic skin infections among others. While not every dog will inherit these disorders, a buyer is urged to do their research when looking for a puppy. Some Neos suffer from no health issues, while other only inherit a minor condition such as cherry eye. Either way, a prospective owner should have a health fund ready to go if any problems arise. This is in addition to the extra regular costs it will take to feed and take care of this giant breed. All Neos are prone to heat stroke. Care must be taken when they are outside on a hot day. Keep in mind, also, that the average lifespan for this molosser breed is only 7 years.

Some Neos are prone to chasing cats, bikes or even cars. This behavior can be dangerous and should be stopped right away. Consider if the dog needs more exercise and if this may be one of the contributing factors. Neapolitan Mastiffs should be walked once a day and/or given free running time in the yard. These dogs are not build for jogging, however, and should never be forced to run.

In general, Neapolitan Mastiffs are low-energy animals content to lay around and observe their world. When they fall asleep they often snore. Despite their often-lazy demeanor, they are very quick when they need to be! If they hear the sound of a person approaching they will be up and ready at a moment’s notice. As might be expected from such a massive dog, this can be a potential problem for furniture and breakable items in the dog’s way, particularly if the person lives in a small place. One other probable problem for owners who like a well-kept house… Neos drool quite a lot, and the slobber will end up everywhere! The breed also scatters food as they eat and drags mud across the floor on rainy days. Not the dog for a neat freak by any means!

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The Great Pyrenees is one of several Livestock Guardian Breeds specifically bred to watch over livestock. These giant, fluffy dogs are vastly appealing but potential owners should know that this is not a breed for just anyone! Their guarding instinct is hardwired into their brains, which – although makes them extremely loyal and protective – can also make them into a liability if not given strict management, training and socialization. Their guarding instinct combined with their very independent personality means that living with a Pyr can be very different from living with another breed of dog.

Because of their high territoriality, Pyrs will not naturally accept visitors into the house or onto the property. Instead, the owner must be present and introduce the dog to each new person first. This can be a problem in households where strangers often come and go. While most Great Pyrenees will not immediately “go for the kill” with an intruding stranger, they will put up a very loud and ferocious alarm and will escalate their defense efforts to match that of the intruder. The better socialized and trained the dog is, the more predictable he will be. A well-bred, well-trained Pyr has been said to be an excellent judge of character while a poorly-bred, unsocialized, untrained dog can be a liability. The breed has all the makings of a sensible guardian but these traits must be fostered.

Also because of their territorial nature, the Great Pyrenees isn’t always super friendly towards other dogs. Most males will not tolerate living with another male (especially if neither is neutered), and some females have problems living with other females. Opposite-sex pairings can yield much better results, and the age, size and temperaments of the dogs (as well as the skills of the owner) has a lot to do with compatibility.

The Great Pyrenees can be an excellent family dog and can be very patient and gentle with children, although supervision is highly advised (like with most breeds). Not surprisingly, they can become very protective of young kids and may even try to intervene when the parent disciplines the child. For obvious reasons, the adults of the household must stay on top of this behavior and not allow it to happen. Obedience and structure will help the dog from becoming pack leader of the entire household.

Although intelligent, the Great Pyrenees can be exceptionally willful. Some people compare training a Pyr to trying to train a cat – it can be done, but it will take a different approach. Just like a cat, these animals think for themselves rather than naturally obeying a command blindly. This is not the typical “off-leash ready” breed, nor is it the breed for those who want to get high scores in obedience competitions. It CAN be done, but it will take much more time and dedication. Keep in mind that Pyrs often learn quickly but become bored easily – too much repetition is a common cause of bad obedience.

The Pyr is generally very healthy and long-lived for a dog of its size (often reaching 10-12 years of age). Psychologically, they need to live in an environment without constant chaos. They do much better with structure and routine, and may start to become “unhinged” if the household cannot meet these demands. They can also become destructive and hard to handle if they are left outside with no attention ever given to them. Being able to meet the mental needs of these dogs is an important consideration, if one is considering owning a Pyr.

Pyrs are not only giant in size, but also extremely strong. An owner should be physically strong enough themselves to handle the dog. Yes, obedience training is definitely necessary (which will curtail pulling and make the dog easier to control), but even a trained Pyr is not a great match for someone who is very frail. Seeing as these dogs need a good long walk every day, the owner should be physically able to provide this. An owner must also not mind a barking dog, as this breed naturally uses his voice frequently, especially at night.

Great Pyrenees are very affectionate with those that they know, and are trustworthy gentle giants with their own families. Not particularly active, they enjoy lounging about the house and yard but prefer to be able to keep one eye on their owner whenever possible. Although they are mostly sedentary, this is not a breed for an apartment. These giant dogs must have room to roam. Without an escape-proof fence they are prone to wandering away, so make sure the fence is tall and dig-proof (digging is in their blood). While they are able to live outdoors, this isn’t always necessary as most make very good house dogs – their calm nature means they aren’t apt to knock over furniture or break things, and their self-cleaning (dirt retracting) coat makes them somewhat tidy.

As might be expected from his profuse coat, the Great Pyrenees does shed! Regular brushing twice a week will help with this issue but will not completely eliminate the fluffy clouds of white hair that will undoubtably collect in the house (or on your clothes). Be advised that they should never be clipped down, as their coat protects them from both hot and cold weather! Keeping on top of nail trimming is another necessary chore that must be kept up with, and Pyrs have extra toes on their hind feet which means extra nails. Some members of the breed drool when excited or hot so keeping a drool rag ready on hot days may be a good idea.

One might wonder why anyone might want a breed that requires so much extra time and work, but fanciers of the Great Pyrenees have much praise for the loyalty and devotion of these beautiful dogs. It has been said that a Pyr can “look inside your soul” and read your emotions like no other breed. There is a very sensitive and intuitive nature inside these courageous dogs, and for those that are up for the challenge, the relationship with the dog can be very rewarding.

The Anatolian Shepherd Dog is a breed that is still used today for his original purpose – guarding livestock, both is his homeland of Turkey as well as around the world. This huge dog is a deterrent to predators… and he will back up his heavy bark with powerful teeth if need be. Because most predators will leave livestock alone if they see a giant dog sitting guard, the predators themselves are being protected as well (otherwise, they would be shot by humans). Anatolians are a big part of the Cheetah Conservation Project in Africa – an undertaking that serves to protect the big cats from being hunted by farmers.

Although these loyal guardians can become very bonded to people, it takes a special type of person to own this breed. They must be treated fairly, yet firmly. Rules must be put into place from the very start and enforced throughout the dog’s life. This often-dominant and habitually possessive breed will quickly take charge if rules are lacking, and some dogs can even become dangerous in the wrong hands. This is a serious dog that puts the protection of his master in the highest regard – and he will take it upon himself to decide who is friend and who is foe. For obvious reasons, proper socialization and lifelong training are an absolute necessity! Anatolians require formal introductions to house guests before allowing them in the house.

Given these things, these molossers can be very laid-back and calm – some even making great therapy dogs! The more experienced the owner and the more time put into the dog, the better the outcome. An experienced owner always keeps in mind that Anatolians are confident but ever-alert to danger. In addition to providing a stable household and plenty of balanced affection, a good owner will never put their dog into a situation that might cause the dog to react. Furthermore, a good owner will not train aggression into an Anatolian, knowing that his protective instincts are natural and need no special training for them to emerge. “Guard dog training” will create a dog that is unsafe to everyone – owner’s family included!

The Anatolian requires a high fence for his yard and he should never be walked off-leash in public. Because of his very high guarding instincts and suspicion of strangers, a roaming Anatolian can be a recipe for disaster and it is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the dog is always kept safe and secure. Running loose in the neighborhood, his powerful build and impressive size can make him a frightening sight for many people! Bigger males are close to 150 pounds of solid muscle, and even a small female is still 27 inches tall at the withers and 80 pounds, which is a very large dog! Fences should be six feet tall and very secure since some of these dogs are Houdinis.

The Anatolian can come in any color pattern, and he can also come in either a short or a long coat. Just because most of these Turkish molossers are short-haired, and fawn-colored with a black mask, doesn’t mean that there isn’t a rainbow of colors in the breed! The coat tends to stay fairly clean and doesn’t have too strong of a doggy odor, although it will require regular brushing – especially during heavy shedding seasons which occur twice a year. Speaking of appearance… it is important to note that these dogs are very slow to mature and may remain “gawky” for several years. They aren’t considered fully grown until around 3-4 years. This means that about a third of their life is spent growing up (typical lifespan is about 12-13).

Most Anatolians are affectionate and trustworthy around the family’s children because they consider each child to be part of the pack, and therefore, something to protect. This is the same basic way that it works for livestock. A young livestock guardian puppy is raised with the sheep so that he come to define each animal as a pack member. While the Anatolian will treat the family’s children as one of his own, he will not tolerate strange children, nor will he tolerate children who misbehave. This is not a dog to bring to a child’s birthday party! Furthermore, supervision is always required whenever the dog is around any kid. With other dogs, the Anatolian tends to want to dominate. Most of the time, two males cannot live together. Adding in other animals when the dog is an adult can take extra time and lots of supervision – Anatolians are much more likely to accept new family members while they are still puppies.

Anatolians were bred to make decisions for themselves and are therefore very intelligent. They are easy to housebreak and learn most things fairly quickly. This said, some have a stubborn streak that practically rivals their own giant size! Because they are so independent, they don’t always understand the point of obedience training. This is unfortunate, since Anatolians MUST be taught obedience, but a good trainer can help make it fun for the dog. Obedience training is one of the ways that an owner can establish himself as “top dog”, and if done right, will be a positive experience for both dog and human.

The Anatolian is a quiet dog most of the time but will sound an alarm if he sees (or hears) someone coming closer to the property. This can include people that he sees through the window, a wandering cat, or an unexpected sound. For this reason, there is a wide variation of noise with this breed, depending on living situations. People who live in crowded or busy neighborhoods will probably have a much noisier dog that those that live out in the countryside. The older the Anatolian gets, the more he will learn what sights and sounds are “normal”, and which are actual threats.

Unlike many breeds, an Anatolian can be kept outside as long as he is provided with shelter from the elements. Many actually prefer being outside, where they can survey their territory without the visual confines of walls. One caveat though – this breed should never be left out on a chain while outside! Not only is this practice dangerous to the dog, but it will make him extra defensive and can psychologically damage him. Not to mention the fact that a chained dog isn’t a deterrent to a criminal anyway! Some Anatolians get nervous if they aren’t near “their people”, however, and these dogs may be better as mostly-indoor dogs.

Photo By Tibilou

The Komondor is known for his distinctive long, corded coat and his unsurpassed livestock guardian abilities. This is not a herding dog, but instead a dog that specialized in watching over flocks in his native Hungary. To do this job meant that he had to be fearless and brave – often facing off against wolves and other predators. Protecting is in his blood, and even today’s Komondor needs something (or someone) to protect. Not every owner needs to have a flock of sheep, but a child or even a cat can fill this need. This trait is so ingrained that prospective owners are urged to visit an adult Komondor at the owner’s house before they buy. This way they can see for themselves just how protective the breed is, and decide whether it is the right breed for them!

This is a relatively calm and quiet breed as long as there are no intruders onto the property (although some bark more than others – there is a range from very quiet to quite loud). Either way, he should have a steady, even temperament. If someone comes near though… he will erupt into a series of warnings. If his warnings are not taken seriously he will act! Komondorok (the plural of Komondor) have been known to break through windows if they think that their charge needs protecting. Strangers must be introduced to the dog by the owners before entering the house. This way the dog knows that the person is “ok”, and will allow them into “his pack”. Most will continue to remember that person throughout their life, and may even consider that person worthy of protecting as well! This breed is excellent at being able to tell if someone has bad intentions, however – if the dog doesn’t seem to accept someone, there might be a reason why…

There are countless stories detailing Komondorok that warned of danger (such as fires), fought off attackers, and protected their masters. All of these tales speak of the great devotion that the breed has toward their owners. This loyalty is not matched by many other breeds, which is also what makes them ironically difficult and even dangerous if not raised correctly. These dogs live and breathe protection. They follow their charges from room to room, even leaning against the person if they feel the need to be closer. They will make decisions about how best to protect that person – often intelligently but not always socially acceptable.

This is a serious guard dog meant only for serious owners who understand how protective they are! The fact that the Komondor is also large and powerful means that they can do a lot of damage. Obedience training from a young age, as well as continuous rules and structure, are paramount. Komondorok were bred to be independent and to think for themselves. They are cunningly intelligent, but may take advantage of owners who don’t stay consistent with the rules. Although they can take very well to training, it’s best if that training is started early on, before they get to their “testing phase”. They should never be allowed to get away with pushy behavior, as it can potentially escalate into aggressive actions (the breed is not shy about biting). This breed also needs extensive socialization when they are puppies. A Kom that has skipped the socialization stage is more prone to behave aggressively.

Despite being a giant dog, the Komondor is surprisingly athletic and light on his feet. This is not an oaf-ish creature, despite how he may look. He is loving and friendly to everyone in the family, including children (with whom he is exceptionally gentle). Puppies are silly and carefree, but gradually grow into serious and “responsible” adults as they age – although this breed does take a while to mature. Most take about three years to reach adulthood. The middle “teenage” stage is the most difficult to live with, dogs will be more destructive and will test their dominance limits. Lovers of these dogs insist that the wait is worth it, however. A well-bred, well socialized Kom at maturity has a loyalty and sense of responsibility that is unmatched in the dog world.

The Komondor who is bought to be used as a livestock guarding dog should be introduced to “his charges” while he is still young, although always under supervision. It can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years before the dog will start to guard the flock – before he figures it out, he will probably try to chase or play with the animals instead! Some people buy a Komondor and keep it outside 24/7. Unlike most breeds, the Kom can be fulfilled living in this way, although might also become even more suspicious of strangers. Older, retired working dogs have been able to be successfully integrated into the household with little trouble, however. On the other hand, dogs that live primarily indoors and guard family rather than flock, do not like to be outside if they cannot see their charges. They can get very anxious if they can’t do their job.

Despite their size, many Komondorok do not need a lot of food to keep them happy and at an ideal weight. In fact, the serving guidelines on dog food bags are often too high for what this breed needs. Keep in mind, also, that adult Koms are very inactive and do not require a lot of exercise. The combination of these two factors can mean that weight gain is a concern. Owners need to monitor the dog’s weight to make sure he stays healthy. On the plus side, this means that the breed can live in an apartment with only a little bit of added exercise, or in a property with a yard with barely any exercise.

The distinctive coat of the Komondor is functional to the working dog. Always white in color, the dog was bred to “blend in” with the sheep, while also making him easier to be seen by the farmer at night. The long cords served at regulating temperature and protected the dog from wolf or coyote attacks. However impressive, the coat does take quite a bit of work to form its shape and stay clean. The cords need to be helped along while the dog is young, separating them from other cords and fixing them into the final shape. As far as staying clean – it is said that it is easier to keep the dog clean in the first place then to wash the dog after he has already gotten dirty! A wet Komondor can be smelly and even get mildew, so ensuring the dog stays dry is important. Owners should have large dog dryers on hand for when the dog gets soaked. It is safe to say that working Koms who live outside all of the time look (and smell) very different from most Koms kept as pets and show dogs!

The Komondor doesn’t always play nice with other dogs, especially if he feels like they are entering his territory. His sense of property is very strong and he usually knows where the boundaries are – where he belongs and other dogs do not! And while he gets along very well with children in his own family, a child that climbs over the fence and onto his property is considered an intruder and he will act accordingly…

Photo By Nikki68