The Great Pyrenees comes from the Pyrenean Mountains. Although Great Pyrenees dogs have a reputation of being calm, gentle and patient dogs, they are very independant, with a mind of their own, and often seem quite stubborn. Pyrs are loyal, territorial and protective and make excellent guard dogs. They have a weather-resistant double coat. Their color is all white or with badger, gray or tan markings.
The Great Pyrenees is a large, strong dog of majestic beauty, incredible intelligence, unique character and rich past.
He is undoubtedly one of the most ancient guardian breeds of dogs. The origins of these powerful and beautiful livestock guardians are in the that separates France and Spain. Only dogs with superb scent ability, sure foot and great endurance could survive on the steep slopes of the Pyrenean Mountains. Their legendary courage enabled them to protect the shepherd's family and the flocks of sheep and goats from wolves, bears and intruders. In the Middle Ages Great Pyrenees were used as guard and sentry dogs.
The breed survived several devastating periods in its history and was salvaged by French and American dedicated fanciers in 1920's and 1930's. Today the Great Pyrenees is still used as a watchdog and companion and for pack and guide work on mountain trails. Some Great Pyrenees can be overly territorial and may bark a lot.
Great Pyrenees Breed Outline
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FCI Official Name: | Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées (Pyrenean Mountain Dog) |
| AKC Name: | Great Pyrenees |
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Other Names: | Pyrenean Mountain Dog (UK), Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées (France), Pyrenean Sheepdog, Pyr |
| Country of Origin: | France |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer type dogs, Molossoids and mountain dogs and Swiss mountain dogs; Molossoids, mountain type (without working trial) |
| Utilization: | Pastoral guardian in the mountains |
| AKC Classification: | Working Group |
| Personality: | Intelligent, calm, independent, self-confident and protective. |
| Size Category: | Giant |
| Height: | 27-32 inches at shoulders |
| Colors: |
White or white with markings of gray, badger, reddish brown, or varying shades of tan. Markings of varying size may appear on the ears, head (including a full face mask), tail, and as a few body spots. |
| Average Litter Size: | 9 |
| Life Span: | 9-15 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
Their thick, dense coat requires frequent brushing to remove dead hair. This should be done at least once a day to prevent matting. |
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Social skills: | Pyrs usually get along with other household animals if raised with them. They can be aggressive toward other dogs. |
| Suitability for Children: | Very good with children of their family, but do not leave younger children alone with a Great Pyrenees. Pyrs are naturally mistrustful of strangers. |
| Exercise Needs: | Great Pyrenees are calm indoors and not hyper at all. But they need daily exercise for at least 90 minutes to keep them in good shape. |
| Train Ability: | Great Pyrenees are extremely intelligent but can be stubborn and dominant. They need to be handled in a firm and consistent manner from the early puppyhood. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, deafness, entropion (eye problems) |