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---------- Joe; Now, I'm really confused, this is not an attempt to pick a fight, I am really confused. Almost everything she wrote about her Pyr ( although this dog did have a much more bleak start) sounds exactly like Zeus started. As you said, this was an escalating problem. His aggression started as fear and shyness, then escalated to aggression, do to my inadequate training. But yet you believe that her dog can overcome this, that she may have a chance. I agree that she does have a chance if she deals with the problem immediately and does this with professional help. Obedience training probably won't be enough, as Zeus went through puppy kindergarten and on up. So why is there a chance for her's and not mine? Is it because it's a female and not a male? I'm seriously and respectfully asking this question without malaise of any kind! Sariena In a message dated 5/23/01 12:21:16 PM Eastern Daylight Time, acustode@rational.com writes: Also, separate topic... since I am new to this list, can anyone summarize for me any successes which have been discussed with reducing the nighttime barking Pyrs are so famous for? Easy one first. None. Is that summary enough? <<Any thoughts about whether this is normal behavior or suggestions? You have a basically very nice girl that has a lot going for herself temperament wise and certainly has Pyrenean instincts. She is probably not so well bred as the shyness seems excessive and is hereditary. We have all seen it at times and it reliably goes from one generation to the next. Working breeders say they do not care, but this is one of their major mistakes and one the great lies many of them tell the public. Of everything you describe I would be concerned with the shyness as it can lead to violence if it overwhelms the dog. Your dog may get better as it matures and becomes more familiar with you, but the problem is there. Please do not breed her again (neuter her) and I hope all the puppies were neutered. For the interim I would keep her out of the room with guests. I would be careful when walking and meeting strangers. It is fairly common that Pyrs sometimes bark and sometimes not at strangers. Pyrs are historically legendary in their abilities to discern ill intent of strangers. With a shy fearful dog I think this trait may be a little skewed as surely 40% of the people you meet are not out to do harm (at least one would hope not). Don't put her in a situation where she has to be touched. You may see that she will make the overture herself when she is comfortable. If you really want her to be more friendly, try taking her to obedience or any other dog group activity. Sounds like give time and a little space she can work it out. I admire her spirit with the changes and the puppies. Did she let you assist in whelping and handle the newborn puppies without getting really upset? If she did I think that is very good and says something about not only the dog but you and your family. Thanks for sharing this with us. Joe |