[CptJack]

LGD usually means protective, tendencies toward dog aggression, particularly same-sex aggression, they are independent and tend to have very little desire to please as a result of their background working without the intervention of humans. They also tend to dig, a lot. And yes, barking (especially at night), being resource guarders (food aggression is not unheard of before puppies are even weaned), and they roam.

The good? They're beautiful, sweet, majestic dogs with enormous hearts.

They're just very, very different.

 

[CptJack]

So what I expected and more!

It always makes me wonder about the Border Collie/Pyr crosses. Sure at best you get a more biddable dog that can herd as well as guard. But I don't know if I want a dog that weighs more than me with the urge to chase/nip heels!

On the other hand, do you think there are more beneficial crosses (LGDxLGD maybe) or this is a breed best left alone?

Heh. Thud's some kind of herding/LGD mix, we're pretty sure. He's been an interesting experience. 120lbs of herding and drive. Biddable! But huge, protective, mouthy forever (he gave it up more like 9-10 months than the 4 I'm used to), and high energy. He's made me cry more-

Honestly, Pyrs are one of the 'softer' LGD, over all. They can be managed and owned by most people with a securely fenced yard and no close neighbors, and they're usually pretty danged good with other HOUSEHOLD pets. They're just.... How can I describe this. They love you, and your household. They just think you're theirs/a bunch of funny looking sheep. There are some pretty serious challenges with that. Not on a base level where they run rapidly away from you, eat your furniture, and refuse to housebreak or are dumb. They just...

They're kinda like giant cats. With instincts that sometimes make them really, really bad decision makers (re: other dogs, strange people, parents disciplining children, whatever) and big mouths.