The Pyreneean Mountain Dog
The Ever-loyal Guardians of the High Pastures
Some handy advice for mountain walkers who may encounter flocks of sheep and their canine guardians whilst exploring the high pastures this summer.
Since the brown bear was re-introduced to the Pyrenees there has been a revival of the traditional method of protecting grazing flocks in the remote mountain pastures . The arrival of the bears from Slovenia has provoked some anger within the sheep farming communities. The well- meaning actions of conservationists have not always been as much appreciated by the farmers as the general public, who have by and large welcomed the return of these ancient beasts of the mountains. There have been demonstrations amid fears that the bears would decimated the flocks, but these have been largely groundless. Given that the entire population of imported bears only numbers about 20 the chances of serious numbers of sheep being attacked are very slim. And the upside to this is that the Pyreneean Mountain dog is making a comeback in it's traditional role as the guardian of isolated mountain flocks.
These giant dogs have been bred for centuries in the Pyrenees, where they are usually referred to by their local name of 'Le Pastou', taken from 'pastre' the old French word for a shepherd.Born in the 'bergerie' or sheepfold the puppies quickly establish a strong bond with their future charges. Consequently as the pups mature their natural instinct is to protect the sheep from intruders. As soon as the dog scents danger he places himself between the flock and the unwelcome trespasser, and barks a warning. If this first warning isn't heeded the dog may attack
Of course, it isn't just the sudden appearance of a bear, or other natural predator such as a wolf, or even more rarely a mountian lynx that can alert these wily dogs.
Walkers, mountain bikers and Sunday ramblers with dogs running off the leash can unwittingly upset naturally jittery sheep, thus creating a panic situation within the flock. The 'pastou' is instantly alert to this interruption.
If you are walking in the foothills of the mountains and come across a flock of sheep being guarded by dogs here are a few tips to make your encounter more friendly:
If you see a flock in the near distance, try to make a wide detour round them if this is possible. It will be much appreciated by the shepherds.Try to leave 150-200 metres between you and the flock.
If you come face to face with a pastou don't be tempted to 'pet' him. Yes, he looks adorable but he's not your average fireside pooch. A quiet, passive approach is by far the best. Don't try to stare him out,or make any threatening gestures,. If you feel there is a tricky situation developing just turn slowly and walk away. And if by some amazing stroke of misfortune you happen to meet one of our newly installed bears, don't attempt to run away. They can reach speeds of 40 miles hour (over flat terrain) The relevant advice is to lie down and play dead!
Don't approach the sheep, and above all don't attempt to feed or touch the lambs. They are the sheepdogs responsibility and he'll protect them from what he sees as an attack.
Above all keep your dogs on the leash. Sounds obvious, doesn't it ? But its surprising how many people ignore this advice.
The summer pastures of the Pyrenees are a ramblers paradise, and the presence of these beautiful white dogs is part of the whole scene, together with their flocks, the soaring birds of prey , the riot of wild flora, and the breath-taking scenery. There's room for everyone here if we respect the natural rights of the inhabitants. So as long as you equip yourself with the right gear, get as much information and advice as you can from the local tourist offices (that's what they're there for after all) and watch out for the faithful 'pastou' you'll have a wonderful time.
