Some dogs carry the reputation of being gentle giants, and anyone who has met one knows how easily they can brighten a room. Their size might look intimidating at first glance, yet behind that big frame is often a soft and affectionate nature.
Unfortunately, not everyone realizes that many large breeds are among the most tender companions.
From my own experience, the feistiest moments have come from tiny Chihuahuas, while massive breeds like Newfoundlands or Great Pyrenees tend to lean toward calm sweetness. Every dog is different, of course, but the pattern shows up often. The bigger they are, the kinder they seem to be.
Mya is a perfect example.
She is a seven year old Great Pyrenees who reflects the gentle spirit of her breed. Originally raised to protect livestock, these dogs still carry strong guardian instincts today.
Living in Sharpsburg, Georgia, far from any farm, Mya directs that loving protection toward everyone she meets. She even tries to bring new animal friends home on occasion, though her mom, Rachel, does not always appreciate those surprises.
A Dog With A Soft Spot
Everything waz going so gud. I findz new frens. I luv shelly frens. Mommy sayz they called turtles. I call dem shelly frens. They so sweet!
Just when I wantz to show shelly fren my home, mommy come.
Mommy sayz no to shelly frens.
Dat make me a sad doggo.
Why I no keep shelly frens, mom?
This time, Mya had hoped she could slip another turtle past her mom’s watchful eye. But her plan fell apart the moment Rachel caught her standing at the door with a turtle held delicately in her mouth.
It was not Mya’s first attempt.
The very first time Rachel saw her with a turtle, she panicked. She worried about the turtle’s safety and rushed to intervene. But Mya made it clear she had no intention of hurting the animal. She carried it with surprising care, and every turtle she later discovered remained unharmed.
Yes, every turtle. Because Mya never stopped at one.
Whenever she found another shelly friend wandering in the yard, she would gently pick it up and head toward the house. If Rachel had not stepped in each time, their Georgia home might have ended up full of turtles.
On this particular day, Mya once again tried to show off her newest discovery. But Rachel was already expecting mischief. She caught Mya at the doorway, hoping this time her mom would finally say yes.
After a moment of quiet pleading and a few gentle prompts, Mya slowly set the turtle down. The small creature was safe and completely unharmed. Mya, however, looked heartbroken, her expression full of disappointment.
This shelly friend had to stay outdoors.
No one knows exactly where the turtle wandered off to, but it likely returned to its natural environment.
Mya’s sweet habit brings plenty of laughs, but it also highlights an important message. Wild animals should never be carried around by pets. Even the gentlest dog can unintentionally cause harm through stress or injury.
If your pup behaves like Mya, be ready to guide them away. Wild creatures belong outdoors, exploring nature on their own terms.