Watch a Man’s Dog Turn Into the World’s Best Bodyguard and Protect Him From a Grizzly Bear

Written by Chris Madden
Updated: October 19, 2023
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In the thrilling video below, a man is out for a leisurely walk with his dog. They unexpectedly cross paths with a wild grizzly bear. The tension rises as the dog instantly positions itself protectively between its owner and the imposing bear. It bravely barks to fend off the potential threat.

Check Out the Video Below!

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Puppy defends💪 owner from wild grizzly bear🐻 #puppy #grizzlybear

♬ original sound – Smile Stories

Despite the dog’s aggressive stance, the bear remains unfazed. Undeterred by the bear’s lack of intimidation, the courageous dog remains steadfast. It shows great dedication to defending its beloved owner and holds its ground. It continues to bark fiercely at the imposing predator.

The intensity of the moment escalates as the bear dares to inch closer. It challenges the dog’s resolute stand. However, the undaunted dog refuses to back down. His protective instincts take precedence over any fear.

The bear, perhaps realizing the dog’s unwavering determination, eventually decides to retreat. It gives in to the dog’s courageous defense. In a moment of quick thinking, the man calls back his valiant companion just in time. They both safely disappear from the frame, leaving viewers in awe of the remarkable bond between man and dog.

How Did This Brave Dog Scare Off a Huge Grizzly?

In the incredible clip, we witnessed the bravery of a dog facing off against a grizzly bear. The dog successfully bluffed the much larger predator into retreating. This display of courage in the animal kingdom is not entirely uncommon. Certain animals, including dogs, use bluffing tactics to ward off potential threats.

Brave dogs, and many other other animals when cornered into a situation where they must face a threat head on, often resort to bluffing as a defense mechanism. They fully understand that confronting larger predators could lead to severe injuries or even death. The fear of getting hurt acts as a powerful deterrent, prompting potential threats to back down and retreat.

However, for humans, bluffing is generally not an advisable tactic when facing dangerous wild animals. Humans lack the physical capabilities to defend against creatures like grizzly bears adequately. Attempting to bluff could be perceived as a sign of weakness, further agitating the animal and escalating the danger.

In such encounters, it is crucial for humans to follow safety protocols. They can make themselves appear larger, back away slowly, and avoid direct eye contact. Respect for the wild animal’s space and behavior is paramount. It ensures a safe retreat for both parties involved.

Yellowstone grizzly bears can be at their most dangerous when they first emerge from hibernation.

A grizzly bear is a dangerous creature that should be treated with respect and extreme caution.

©Paul Knowles/Shutterstock.com

Great Pyrenees: A Loyal Friend and Fierce Defender

Introducing the Great Pyrenees, the dog featured in the heart-gripping video above. It’s a breed renowned for its exceptional protectiveness and fascinating history as a working dog. Originating from the Pyrenees Mountains in southwestern Europe, it is likely descended from guardian dogs in Asia Minor around 10,000 B.C. These majestic canines were purposefully bred to safeguard flocks of sheep from predators, such as wolves and bears. 

Portrait of a Great Pyrenees dog outdoors with colorful autumn leaves

The Great Pyrenees is a formidable defensive livestock guardian dog.

©Mary Swift/Shutterstock.com

Their gentle and affectionate demeanor towards loved ones harmoniously coexists with an unwavering dedication to defending their territory and those they hold dear. The Great Pyrenees’ history as working dogs plays a vital role. It shapes their protective nature, as guarding and protecting are ingrained in their genetic makeup. 

When faced with perceived danger, like the encounter with the wild grizzly bear in the video, the Great Pyrenees rapidly springs into action, fearlessly positioning itself between its owner and the threat. Its deep, resonating bark acts as a powerful deterrent. 

Through the ages, the Great Pyrenees has remained a treasured companion and a steadfast guardian. This makes them a popular choice for families seeking a devoted protector, an affectionate, loyal friend. The Great Pyrenees possesses impressive protective traits and a storied background, making it a remarkable breed with an enduring legacy.

Is it Normal for Great Pyrenees to Defend Against Bears?

The great Pyrenees was bred to protect its people and flocks from bears and wolves.

©iStock.com/creativex

We’ve learned of the bravery of the Great Pyrenees and of their willingness to defend their people and flocks from predators such as wolves and bears. But is it normal for this heroic canine to take on an animal as big as a bear? Yes, it is – and we have statistics to prove it!

The Great Pyrenees breed has declined in numbers over the years when wolves have been driven from areas where the dogs traditionally protected livestock from the predators. In more recent times – predators such as wolves and bears have been reintroduced to balance the ecology of region – in the United States with the reintroduction of wolves – and France with the reintroduction of European brown bears.

Great Pyrenees were given to farmers and ranchers to protect their livestock in both cases – and in France, the mighty breed succeeded against bears on a grand scale. Studies conducted in the mid-2000s found that livestock protected by Great Pyrenees across France reported 90% fewer stock losses due to bears than the shepherds who did not employ the dogs. The only drawback to this effort was that the dogs sometimes attacked hikers they believed to be intruders. As for bears – they were kept away from their flocks and allowed to flourish.

Dogs Bred to Protect Animals and Humans

Throughout history, humans have selectively bred certain dog breeds for specific tasks, resulting in remarkable adaptations and skills tailored to various jobs. The Great Pyrenees exemplifies protection and almost irrational courage. It was bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains, known for fearlessly confronting predators like grizzly bears due to its massive size, strength, and unwavering loyalty.

On the other hand, breeds like the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd showcase exceptional intelligence and herding instincts. They make unparalleled shepherding dogs, indispensable assets for farmers and ranchers with their mental adaptability and instinctive ability to control and guide livestock.

Waterfowl hunting breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever and Chesapeake Bay Retriever, are born water enthusiasts. They possess a unique affinity for swimming and retrieving game from water, thanks to their webbed feet, water-resistant coats, and innate desire to please their human partners.

Terrier breeds, including the Jack Russell Terrier and Rat Terrier, excel at rodent hunting. Their tenacity, agility, and sharp senses allow them to fearlessly pursue and capture vermin, displaying their keen hunting instincts.

Throughout history, dogs have proved to be incredible companions to humans. Their loyalty, intelligence, and adaptability have earned them a special place in our hearts and homes. Dogs continue to enrich our lives, exemplifying the powerful bond between humans and animals, whether as protectors, shepherds, hunters, or loving companions.

border collie

Border collies are remarkably intelligent dogs and bred to understand vocals and visual cues.

©Lobstrosity/Shutterstock.com

The photo featured at the top of this post is ©

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About the Author

Chris is a lifelong animal lover with a passion for writing and a natural tendency to explore the internet in pursuit of new wildlife and nature facts! He is completing his Bachelors in Political Science at Concordia University in the Spring of 2024 after a science-centric high school career. Aside from studying and writing for A-Z Animals, he has a budding music career and enjoy spending time outside year-round, from swimming to skiing!

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