Frequently Asked Questions
I Want to go Pyr “shopping”
We invite you to look at the list of Pyrs available for adoption. Read the biographies. Study the photos. But do not get your heart set on a photo. The “look” of a dog is not the key to a successful placement and a happy bond with you and your new Pyr. Just because a Pyr looks exactly like the one you had as a child, does not mean it is the “best fit” for your family’s lifestyle. A dog might be the “look you want”, but if it has separation anxiety and your family is at work/school 8+ hours daily, you might be better off with a couch potato dog that enjoys napping in your absence! The rescue program coordinator will assist in trying to match the right dog to the right family. Sometimes, you have a specific characteristic in mind (like the dog must be female). If a suitable dog is not on the website currently, be patient! Rescue gets calls about new dogs ALL the time. The right one will come along. And hey, while you wait-how about fostering to get to know the breed? (see foster focus)
How much does it cost to adopt a Pyr?
$360.50 for Pyrenees Puppies under 1 year (plus fees)
$309.00 for Pyrenees 1+ years old (plus fees)
Is the dog housebroken?
Your prospective dog is most likely currently in a foster home. This means that the foster family has been working on housebreaking. It may not be 100%, but training is underway. Be patient, and expect your new dog to make a mistake during the first few days. It may not know how to let you know it needs to go out. Ask the foster family if they have been using a signal or command.
Does the dog like children?
Most Pyrs LOVE children. However, not all the foster families have children, so sometimes we are not positive that our rescues have been exposed to children of all ages. Bring the kids with you to look at the dog, and make sure the children have a healthy respect for the animal as well. Remember, a wagging Pyr tail can be a dangerous “weapon” to little ones who weigh less than the dog.
Why is the adoption fee so high compared to other shelters?
Shelters deal with mass quantities of dogs, so they have arrangements with veterinarians that allow them to get services performed for less money than a rescue organization will pay. Adoption fees are charged to attempt to “recover” the medical expenses put into a dog. Dogs are altered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea treated, and heartworm tested prior to placement. Some require much more expensive care like surgeries. The adoption fee is the only way (other than donations) that the rescue has money to get the medical work done on the dogs. Rescue doesn’t “make” money. We are happy to have a couple hundred dollars available for vet work when we need it. Be assured that your adoption fee goes right into the cost of getting the next rescue ready.
How much does a Great Pyrenees eat?
It depends on the age, activity level, and current state of health. Emaciated dogs can consume 12-16 cups of kibble daily. However, healthy, older, sedentary dogs may only eat 3 cups! Pyrs are not a high energy breed, so they will not “eat you out of house and home”.
What is the history of my dog?
Often, we do not know much. Some Pyrs are surrendered from previous owners (and we know their past and have medical & AKC records). Others are pulled from shelters and we have no history whatsoever. Often, the age of your dog is an estimate, based on a veterinary assessment of the dog’s teeth and overall physical condition. So, just pick a birthday and celebrate, and count from this day forward!
Do I need a fenced yard?
It is highly recommended. You may think you are okay walking the dog outside on a leash to potty 6 times a day, but it will rain, and be cold, and are you going to be dedicated? It is never permitted to allow your adopted Pyr to roam free without supervision. It is not permitted to chain them without supervision either. Fences protect other disease carrying critters from getting to your dog. If you want a Pyr you should consider a fence. Based on the circumstances, adopters without fences may still be considered.
What does a Pyr normally weigh?
It ranges anywhere from 80-150 pounds! Females tend to be smaller. Many rescues come in VERY thin and weigh under 80 pounds.
Can I get a puppy so my kids can “grow up with it”?
Pyr puppies are sometimes available in rescue. Knowing they are purebred Pyrs is rarely certain, however. Although we do get puppies, most often our dogs are adults. The reason for this is that the puppies are SO incredibly cute, that no one wants to part with them. It is only after the dog has grown, chewed stuff up, been neglected, never trained, gotten bigger than “expected” and is now a “possession” rather than a beloved pet, that they get dumped onto rescue. Puppies require training, love, patience, housebreaking, they like to chew, & they get into everything! Make sure your family is equipped to handle that before you get that cute bundle of fuzz. An older dog can bond with your family just as much, and can be easier to work with, especially if some good habits are already developed. A Pyr often makes a good babysitter! If you must have a puppy, please use a reputable breeder that supports rescue.
Are there really that many Pyrs needing rescue in Texas?
Yes. Simply yes. We get calls to assist 6-7 dogs daily in the summer months. You may not see them often when walking in the parks and such, but they are around. And many are not being well cared for. Our dogs often come in with ear infections and major skin issues from lack of proper care. If you don’t decide to foster or adopt or volunteer, maybe you can just donate (see how to help page). It is a tax deduction for you, and it could be a lifesaving medicine for a neglected Pyr!
