My name is XP Hank - Mountain Lakes, NJ!

Hank is a 20-month-old, purebred Great Pyrenees who has already lived more life than most dogs ever should. He weighs about 100 pounds, is neutered, fully vaccinated, and is as striking on the outside as he is loving on the inside.

Hank is affectionate, smart, playful, and athletic. He completed a five-month professional training program with his owner and has excellent obedience skills. That said, Hank is still very much a Great Pyrenees at heart. Like many livestock guardian breeds, he has strong instincts to roam, patrol, and protect. Even though he has off-leash training, he should not be off leash outside of a safely enclosed area—Pyrs are well known for following their instincts and “disappearing” when something catches their attention.

Before finding his current family, Hank was tied to a tree and abandoned as Hurricane Helene hit Asheville, NC. He survived, was rescued, taken to a shelter, and eventually transported north. His story touched the hearts of his adopters, who opened their home to him without hesitation.

Hank now lives with three other rescued Great Pyrenees. Unfortunately, despite careful management and training, he has developed tension with the two male dogs in the home. This behavior appears to be situational and home-based, as he happily walks alongside those same dogs on long outings and shows no issues outside the house. He has done beautifully with the female dog in the home and has never shown any concerning behavior toward people. With humans, adults and children, Hank is gentle, affectionate, and endlessly sweet.

After much thought, guidance, and heartbreak, his adopters have come to the painful realization that Hank would truly thrive as the only dog in the household. This decision is being made out of love—not convenience—and with Hank’s long-term happiness and safety at the center.

Hank would do best in a home where he can be the sole canine companion. A fenced yard would be ideal, as he has energy to burn and loves to run, though he is also excellent on a leash. He is fully house-trained, has wonderful manners, and is the kind of dog who leans in for hugs and makes you feel chosen.

This is not an easy goodbye for his family. Hank is deeply loved, and they are committed to finding him a home that will cherish him just as much—one where he can feel secure, understood, and truly at peace.

If you feel that Hank would be a good fit for your home and would like to set up a meeting, please fill out an adoption application at www.northstarpets.org and be sure to ask for XP Hank!