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Very Good Dog On Coyote Patrol In Arizona Rescues 2-Year-Old Boy Lost Overnight In The Desert
Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
A 2-year-old boy who wandered off his family's property and got lost in the desert overnight was found by a very good boy, a Great Pyrenees-Anatolian Shepherd mixed-breed dog named Buford. This story touches my heart as I'm also the proud owner of a Great Pyrenees x Anatolian Shepherd pup that I rescued last year after she was abandoned at some railroad tracks in Georgia and later dropped off at a shelter.
These are great dogs that are natural protectors but also family dogs who are incredibly loving and gentle with children. I've had a horde of neighborhood kids over at the house treating my dog like it was a WWE Royal Rumble and she just went with it because she really loves kids.
It appears Buford is the same with natural protective instincts against predators (coyotes, wolves, rodents, etc) and when he spotted 2-year-old who had wandered 7 miles from his home and gotten lost overnight, Buford understood the assignment. He knew that patrolling the fences for coyotes could wait for another day because that child needed his help and Buford stayed by the child's side until he walked him back to safety.
The incident occurred over Monday night with a search party lasting 16 hours but it was Buford, a very good Great Pyrnees x Anatolian Shepherd, who saved the day:
Once the boy made it back to safety, he was given water and food which calmed him down. He then told his parents and authorities that he had made it through the night sleeping underneath a tree, according to a report from NPR. The child was mildly dehydrated due to going so long without water and had a few minor scrapes but nothing major considering just how dangerous it would be for a child to spend the night in the desert. In fact, there were 2 mountain lion sightings that night in the area according to the Yavapai County Sheriff's report.
I cannot sing the praises enough about this type of dog. While they might not be the traditionally smartest dogs around, their instincts are incredible. Both Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds are ancient breeds. They are natural guardians who instinctively know the difference between a threat and a friend.
Coyote? Bad. Neighbor's dog? New friend. Bear? Absolutely the f— NOT! That bear better run. Chickens and sheep? They must be protected at all costs.
Cass Anderson / BroBible
Cass Anderson / BroBible
For those wondering… Yes, they shed. And yes, they are big dogs. But 'Colorado Mountain Dogs' as they're starting to be called here in the United States (Great Pyrenees x Anatolian Shepherd mixes) are incredible family dogs, ranch dogs, working dogs, and all around companions.
8 Dogs That Were Born To Be Bodyguards
Certain breeds are built to guard. They bark at odd noises, stay aware, think fast, and protect without hesitation. Each one on this list has a track record of loyalty, strength, and instinct.
For anyone who wants a protector as much as a companion, these dogs bring both to the table.
RottweilerCredit: iStockphoto
People often assume the Rottweiler's size does all the work, but its real strength comes from its steady temperament and high awareness. This breed was developed to move cattle and guard property, and it still takes its job seriously. At home, it stays close to family, always ready to respond when something feels wrong.
Belgian MalinoisCredit: Facebook
There's a reason so many working professionals trust the Belgian Malinois. After all, it reacts fast, trains hard, and never takes a shift off. It stays fully engaged when serving in the field or protecting at home. This is a high-energy dog with serious drive, best matched with someone who can keep up.
Doberman PinscherCredit: iStockphoto
The Doberman doesn't waste time sizing things up. It reads the room in a second and responds with purpose. That's why it's a favorite for personal protection—attentive and focused. With the right training, it knows exactly when to wait it out and when to step forward.
German ShepherdCredit: iStockphoto
Only a few dogs have the intelligence, composure, and physical ability that a German Shepherd does. It's been trusted in roles ranging from rescue operations to family guardianship, and for good reason. This guardian picks up on subtle changes, holds the line when it counts, and never loses focus on its people.
Cane CorsoCredit: iStockphoto
In public, the Cane Corso might look relaxed—but it's watching everything. It was primarily bred to guard estates and livestock, and it takes security seriously. These dogs do not go looking for trouble but know how to handle it.
Giant SchnauzerCredit: iStockphoto
Don't let the scruffy appearance fool anyone—the Giant Schnauzer is alert, confident, and deeply driven. These furry pals stay close to the people they trust and quickly learn how to keep them safe. It thrives with purpose once it is trained.
AkitaCredit: iStockphoto
Trust doesn't come easy with the Akita. This dog is thoughtful, observant, and reserved with strangers. Around family, it shows a relaxed kind of friendliness—one based on closeness and responsibility. When something doesn't feel right, the Akita moves in a matter of seconds.
Anatolian ShepherdCredit: Facebook
While working alone in remote regions, this breed learned to think independently. The Anatolian Shepherd doesn't need constant cues and can immediately detect when something is out of place. Once it senses a threat, it takes swift, clear action guided by instinct and centuries of protective breeding.
American BulldogCredit: Facebook
The American Bulldog has a sturdy build and confident stance that gives off presence even before it reacts. It prefers structure and consistency and thrives when it knows what's expected. This breed keeps its circle small but deeply personal.
Rhodesian RidgebackCredit: iStockphoto
There's no drama with a Ridgeback. These dogs originally hunted lions in Africa and haven't lost their sense of calm control. They don't make noise unless they're serious. That measured, reliable nature makes the Rhodesian Ridgeback a trusted household guardian, mainly in homes that want a steady temperament alongside a polished instinct.
KuvaszCredit: iStockphoto
The Kuvasz stays grounded in every situation. It was bred to protect livestock without direct supervision, and it still prefers to take the lead when assessing threats. It doesn't rush to judgment, but once convinced something's wrong, it moves with total commitment.
Belgian TervurenCredit: iStockphoto
No detail escapes a Tervuren. This Belgian breed pays close attention to movement, tone, and unfamiliar energy. It is fast on its feet and sharp in its thinking. And the good news is that it thrives when given a job and responds best to patient, focused leadership.
Presa CanarioCredit: iStockphoto
The Presa Canario stays composed until someone crosses a boundary. It was originally bred for farm protection in the Canary Islands and brings that controlled intensity to home life. It bonds closely with its people and doesn't give many second chances to strangers.
Belgian LaekenoisCredit: Facebook
The Laekenois may be the least common of Belgium's shepherds, but its instincts are just as sharp. It prefers staying near loved ones and watching from close range. Early training and regular engagement can help shape these dogs into alert and adaptable companions.
Tibetan MastiffCredit: iStockphoto
No breed guards with more presence than the Tibetan Mastiff. This mountain dog works on its own terms and often sets boundaries without being told. It doesn't need praise or permission and just focuses on protecting.
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