Mountain Guardian Dogs in Val d’Isère Understanding for a more harmonious co-existence

When crossing the mountain pastures of Val d’Isère, it isn’t unusual to come across these large white dogs that look so cuddly… But make no mistake about it, the “Patou”, or Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is first and foremost a livestock guardian dog. Its mission is to protect herds from predators, particularly wolves, which have well and truly made their comeback to the mountains.

🐾 What is a "patou"?

The “patou”, or Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is a protection dog bred specifically to live among a herd from a very early age. It is generally associated with sheep and goats, but in certain cases may also live with herds of cattle. Its main role is to protect the farm animals from predators (wolves, lynx, stray dogs, etc.), both day and night, whether on remote mountain pastures or near the villages. In certain sensitive areas, several dogs are present for greater safety, particularly from packs of wolves. Although it is neither aggressive nor dangerous by nature, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has a very strong protection instinct. It reacts instinctively to anything it perceives as an intrusion or a threat to the herd. The word “patou” is often used for all livestock guardian dogs, but it is in fact a specific breed, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. In France, a number of other breeds are also used as guardian dogs, in particular the Abruzzese Sheepdog, the Kangal Shepherd Dog and the Transmontano Mastiff.

Where are the mountain guardian dogs in Val d’Isère?

In Val d’Isère, mountain guardian dogs are used mainly to protect herds of sheep, but also cattle, especially at some of the resort’s iconic sites: the Bellevarde sector, the Arcelle area and around the Dôme. These are regular summer grazing zones, and the guardian dogs ensure the herds are not disturbed by intruders or predators. 👉 Before you go out walking, remember to check the interactive “Patou Map”! This shows you the current location of herds that are protected by dogs, so you can adjust your route accordingly and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Adopt the right behaviour in the presence of livestock guardian dogs

Meeting a Patou can be intimidating.

Follow this simple code of conduct for a peaceful coexistence:

Stay calm and keep your distance from the herd.
Walk around the animals, leaving ample space, even if they’re blocking the path.
Keep your dog on a lead, even if it is used to the mountains.
Do not touch the guardian dog, even if it seems friendly.
Do not run, as the dog might see this as a threat.
If you are cycling, get off your bike and walk with it.

How to behave with your dog in the presence of a mountain guardian dog

Always keep your dog on a lead, otherwise the livestock guardian dog may see it as a predator and take defensive action.

👉 If the mountain dog still approaches, it is advisable to let your dog go, so that the two dogs can assess one another naturally, to avoid the situation deteriorating.

🚫 Whatever happens, do not pull on the lead or pick up your dog, as this could be interpreted by the guardian dog as a threat or challenge.

Why is it so important in Val d’Isère? Pastoralism is a cornerstone of the local culture

Every summer, the mountain pastures are grazed by herds that are watched over by herdspeople and protected by guardian dogs. So these dogs are essential allies in maintaining the balance between wildlife, livestock farming and tourism activities.

To take things further: understanding pastoralism

Pastoralism isn’t just about grazing animals. It is an ancestral way of life and a means of landscape management and maintenance of a remarkable biodiversity. But it is also an endangered activity that deserves to be supported.

Video: What is pastoralism?

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