Last Updated on October 20, 2023 by Fumipets
Unusual Visit: Flock of Sheep Arrives at Woman’s Home with a Great Pyrenees Guardian
Imagine walking out of your home only to find a surprise flock of animals in your driveway. That’s precisely what TikTok user @emberforbessmith experienced in a recent video that has left the internet buzzing with over 7.7 million views.
In the video, @emberforbessmith captures the bewildering scene as she stands outside her house, appearing utterly perplexed. She then pans the camera to unveil a peculiar gathering of sheep in her driveway, intriguingly accompanied by a dog that appears to be a Great Pyrenees.
Sheepish Surprise
The caption humorously reads, “What does one do with 100 missing goats?” But upon closer inspection, the flock is revealed to be sheep, not goats. In a later comment, the OP reassured everyone that the sheep were “home safe and sound.”
The Guardian of the Flock
While the sight of this unexpected gathering might be disconcerting for most, there was no need for concern. The presence of the Great Pyrenees, a majestic and formidable breed, provided more than just a touch of reassurance.
The Great Pyrenees, as per the American Kennel Club (AKC), was bred to be a guardian of livestock by shepherds in the Pyrenees mountain range in Europe around 3,000 B.C. Notably, this breed’s lineage can be traced back to white mountain dogs originating in Asia Minor approximately 11,000 years ago.
A Guardian’s Instinct
The AKC describes the Great Pyrenees as more than a mere guard dog; they are guardians. These noble canines not only protect the members of the flock but also care for and nurture them. Their instinct is to be kind and patient with all vulnerable animals, which makes them invaluable protectors of livestock.
In addition to their livestock guarding abilities, Great Pyrenees played a crucial role in saving the St. Bernard breed from near extinction. Pyrenean blood was introduced in 1870 to revive the St. Bernard breed after its numbers were severely depleted due to avalanches and distemper in Switzerland.
Fearless Guardians
Great Pyrenees exhibit fierce protective instincts when it comes to their charges, defending them against threats from both animals and humans. They are known to confront predators or potential dangers to the sheep they guard, displaying aggression through rushing, growling, barking, and intimidation, especially towards wolves, coyotes, or other dogs.
However, when raised with adult sheep, Great Pyrenees adopt a submissive demeanor, earning the trust of the sheep and living alongside them as protectors. They are known for their gentle disposition and compatibility with children and smaller animals like cats, ducks, and chickens, ensuring a harmonious coexistence on farms.
A Warm Reception on TikTok
TikTok users were enchanted by the video, leaving comments that ranged from humorous to heartwarming. Many viewers appreciated the unexpected visit and the dogs’ protective presence.
One user humorously wrote, “They heard you weren’t sleeping well, so they’ve come to help!” Others were curious about the fate of the sheep and the responsibilities of the homeowner, while some shared their heartwarming experiences with similar situations.
The charming encounter reminds us that life’s surprises can bring both joy and amusement. It also highlights the unique bond between Great Pyrenees and the animals they protect.
Source: Newsweek
