Southcitymom, I looked up information related to your dog too.... the Great Pyrenees sounds like it can also be a very "loyal, yet aggressive" dog, but it doesn't sound like he is as unpredictable as an Akita. From the linked site below:
"The AKC Standard describes the Great Pyrenees as "strong willed, independent, and somewhat reserved, yet attentive, fearless, and loyal to his charges -- both human and animal." ..... "The Great Pyrenees is patient with his own family's children, but some are overprotective when neighbors join in for rough-and-tumble play. Likewise, he may be protective of his own family's pets while aggressively driving off others."
From what I read, the Great Pyrenees is much more predictable and sociable than the Akita, but may also be very protective, so maybe it is wise to watch the dog around visiting children??? I love all dogs, and completely understand this "dominant" personality trait. My family has a beagle who is hysterically funny in her attempts to 'dominate us'. People who don't have pets may not understand any of this conversation. Dogs can have SO much personality, and really do become a part of the family. I think that is why an aggressive dog has to be a part of the family early on.
http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/greatpyrenees.html