Great Pyrenees-Meet Udderly Kidding's Animal Cast

By Linda Lovely

My new light-hearted Brie Hooker Mystery series is set on a goat farm, Udderly Kidding Dairy, in Upstate South Carolina. Naturally, the farm boasts lots of four-legged residents, who often play important roles in the plots.  So, every other Friday, I’ll be introducing readers to my animal cast. Today’s spotlight is on the Great Pyrenees dogs that guard Udderly’s 400 goats.

Kay Barrett and Coke

Udderly has five Great Pyrenees, just like Split Creek Farm, a real goat dairy located in the Upstate. While I’ve seen Split Creek’s guard dogs, I’m better acquainted with Coke, a relatively new addition to my friend Kay Barrett’s.household. A few months back, Kay went to an animal shelter to adopt a much smaller dog. However, she quickly fell under Coke’s spell. When we play tennis at Kay’s house, she sometimes lets Coke out to greet her tennis buddies at the end of our matches. Coke is a BIG delightful, friendly bundle of energy.

Appearance: Pyrenees are large—85 to 115 pounds when full grown—with luxurious white coats, chocolate eyes, and a plumed tail.

Work History:  Once France’s “royal” dog, he was bred to guard flocks in the Pyrenees mountains. His French nickname is Patou—shepherd. He’s a descendant of mastiff-type dogs. He isn’t a herder, he’s a protector. The Marquis de Lafayette brought the first Pyrs to America. At Udderly Kidding Dairy, these brave dogs protect the goats from coyotes—and poachers.

Traits: Gentle with children and all kinds of young animals. (Kay’s grandchildren adore Coke, who also puts up with a new kitten’s attentions.) A good hiking companion, but as an avid explorer or territory, he isn’t the best candidate for off-the-leash walks. .He’s great in cold weather, but sensitive to heat and he drools. The breed is naturally nocturnal.

Hope you’ll want to meet Udderly’s Pyrs when Henery Press releases BONES TO PICK, the first Brie Hooker Mystery in October.