Pyrenean mountain dogs (a.k.a. Great Pyrenees) are a highly alert and courageous breed. In their historic role of livestock guardian, they were known to defend their flocks to the death against predator attacks. As companion and guard dogs, they extend the same level of protection to their families. I've been lucky enough to meet (and pet) a Pyrenean, and they're just as beautiful in the flesh as they appear in photographs.
I'm haunted by the fact that this Pyrenean ran back into the burning house. What made him do that? I don't buy the "panic" theory at all; perhaps he went in to retrieve some treasured possession or aid some other living creature that he considered to be under his protection. Sounds crazy, but that's one of the more interesting suggestions made in the comments below the story. Apparently, with their acute senses, Pyreneans will be aware of other resident animals, such as rodents, and may consider them part of his "flock". Either way, Jeter is a hero.
