Mary Ann Feller

Silver Creek Farms, Silverton OR

Do not underestimate the ingenuity of a Pyr puppy in getting under, through or over barriers. If you use horizontal fencing (such as lamb panels) they should be covered with anti-climb fencing. Puppies learn to use the horizontal boards as steps. Digging under can be foiled by laying wire under the edges.

Correct any attempt to jump up on the side of the pen, as that can be a prelude to figuring out how to climb over. It is also undesirable behavior for the time when the pup is in the fenced pasture. Early intervention is preferable to letting a bad habit become established. A sharp "NO" and knocking the pup off balance is appropriate to teaching "4 on the floor". The same correction should be used for jumping on people. It is helpful to teach the puppy to "sit for praise"--to receive petting attention only when the puppy is sitting calmly.

Electric wire can be used with the determined pup or dog. Pyrs are greatly imp[impressed with electric fence, and a shock or 2 is generally all that is needed to convince them that "fence bites".

Dog ports can be a good way to provide an acceptable way for the dog to have access to patrol and check on stock in several pastures. Dog ports are cut-outs in the fences, with the cut-out portion being either hinged or snapped at the top to make a swinging door. They can be snapped closed at the bottom if for some reason you do not want the dog to enter a particular pasture.

Notify your neighbors, as well as local animal control officers, that you have a working dog. Some well-meaning people will assume any dog in the field is a problem. Also request adjacent neighbors not to pet, play with, or feed the puppy. We all know Pyr pups are irresistible but they do not need to be encouraged to visit the neighbors!

Puppies, like humans, may go through a difficult period known as the teens. It may come as early as 8 months and may last as late as 18 months. It is characterized by high energy and limit-testing. If you have laid the groundwork for "being in charge" with early basic obedience and discipline you will be on firm ground. Never allow an adolescent to get away with challenging you--respond quickly, firmly and forcefully. Trust that maturity will come--and with it some welcome calmness and purpose for the dog.

The joy of owning and loving one of these dogs must also be mentioned. A Pyr can bring peace of mind to the rancher who cares about the safety and well-being of his stock and,can be a valuable part of your predation control program. You will come to respect and love this vigilant and trustworthy companion.