The Great Pyrenees

Sentas Family Farm was established in November 2014.  We are a small family farm.  We purchased our first goats and our first two Livestock Guardian dogs, Casper and Pearl, from Anne Petersen.  She is a well respected breeder of these amazing dogs.

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and large breed known for its noble appearance and unwavering dedication to its family. 

Originating from the Pyrenees Mountains, they were originally bread as livestock guardian dogs, but this gentle guardian breed protects sheep, goats, livestock, chickens, ducks, people, children, property and home.

They are fiercely loyal, especially with children. While they can be reserved around strangers, they are not typically aggressive without reason. Their independent nature and strong protective instincts make early socialization and training essential to ensure they become well-mannered and well-adjusted companions.

In the picture to the left, Bolt experienced his first goat birth.  He was amazingly calm and nurturing to the goat kids and even helped to clean them once they were born.  He has attended all the goat births since.  He somehow knows when our mama goats are in labor and sits outside their stall until they deliver.  He is a valued member of our team.

We live in an area that is heavily populated with coyotes, fox, fisher cats and now black bears have started to arrive.  This past summer (2023),  a black bear started showing up on our farm.  This same bear was killing livestock in the area, including four goats across town.  On Halloween day, he became more threatening and was in our back field observing our goats.  Our young Pyre, Bolt, kept the bear from entering our fenced in areas.  His barking and posture was the deterrent.  

Having lost our Casper the previous November and Pearl, now in her later years and an indoor pet, meant that Bolt was out there alone.  However, he did his job but the bear was determined and was frequenting our farm.  

It was then that we decided to add Bosch, a nine month old Pyre puppy to the team.  He and Bolt are now in charge of protecting our animals.  

Fortunately, the bear was taken down by a hunter but there are still others in the area.  We almost never see coyotes near our fence lines and, if we do, the dogs chase them away.  We have not lost any chickens or ducks to predators in over a year.  We have never lost a goat.

Together, they make a great team.

It was Anne that encouraged us to add another dog and, as usual, she was correct.

If you have questions about the breed, you are welcome to give us a call.  Or, speak with Anne Petersen directly at 508-397-3487.  Please text her as she may not be able to answer in the moment, but, she will get back to you promptly.  Our family highly recommends Anne.  Best of luck on your Great Pyrenees journey!

Bruce and Terry Sentas