great pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and gentle giant, originally bred to guard livestock in the snowy Pyrenees Mountains. Known for their thick white coat, large-and-in-charge size and calm demeanor, they make loyal companions, thriving in homes with space to roam.

Temperament

Smart, Serene, Confident

Weight

Male: 100 pounds and up

Female: 85 pounds and up

Height

Male: 27 to 32 inches

Female: 25 to 29 inches

Life Expectancy

10 to 12 years

Maintenance Level

Low maintenanceHigh maintenance

Friendliness

More reservedSocial butterfly

Coat Color

White

Picture this: There’s a snowstorm outside. A roaring fire within. And your large, fluffy canine companion rests close by, warming your feet. Sounds nice, right? The Great Pyrenees breed was born to sit watchfully, waiting for predators to pounce. While there may be little danger lurking between your couch and TV, this massive Pyrenean mountain dog still makes for a devoted, confident companion. Independent of mind yet gentle in soul, the Great Pyrenees dog is a beautiful, majestic creature with a fabulous coat to boot.

Great Pyrenees Characteristics

Remember: Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care

Personality

Adaptability

Social Life

Exercise Needs

Couch PotatoStar Athlete

Health Issues

Few Known Health IssuesMany Known Health Issues

Grooming Needs

Minimal GroomingExtensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal TrainingRequires a Lot of Training

Shedding Level

Sheds a LittleSheds a Lot

Great Pyrenees Appearance

The Great Pyrenees’ appearance stops people in their tracks with their bright white coats and large muscular frame. A Great Pyrenees dog has a rounded head, intelligent brown eyes that hold a quiet gaze, profuse fur that drapes along the body, and a feathery tail.

Ears:

A Great Pyrenees' ears are small to medium in size, V-shaped and rounded at the tips.

Eyes:

Great Pyrenees' eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped and dark brown.

Nose:

The Great Pyrenees breed's nose is black and rounded in shape.

Coat Length:

As mountain dogs, Pyrs sport a thick double coat with long, flat outer coat and a dense, wooly undercoat. More abundant fur grows around the neck and shoulders in males to form a ruff or mane.

Coat Color:

Great Pyrenees colors are either all white or white with some markings in reddish brown, badger (markings that fade as they age), tan or gray.

Tail:

The Great Pyrenees tail has longer hair than the rest of their body and forms a plume.

Great Pyrenees Temperament

The Great Pyrenees’ temperament exudes patience and affection. They’re generally friendly and well-suited to family life. Letting your Great Pyrenees play with kids is more than acceptable as long as the children aren’t too rough and rowdy. And as a former livestock guardian, Pyrs have close contact with various farm animals in their blood, which means they typically get along well with other dogs and even cats in the home.Even though the Great Pyrenees is known to be a gentle pet, their history is rooted in serving as guard dogs. Because this dog was bred as a flock guardian, the breed can be strong-willed, so early socialization and training are essential.Their characteristics also include a high level of competency thanks to their years of service as guard dogs atop snowy mountains. Neither cold weather nor boredom phase a Pyr—this pup is quite used to the slow pace of watching over sheep for hours.Luckily for dog lovers, these serene Great Pyrenees traits transfer nicely to a quiet home life (maybe watching reality TV or hunkering down with a good novel?). Of course, getting outside is part of the plan with dogs, so pet parents who can offer moderate exercise will please both the Great Pyrenees’ personality and physicality.

How to Care for a Great Pyrenees

Grooming

For such a large breed with mountains of soft white fur, you might assume you’ll be brushing a Great Pyrenees’ coat for hours on end. A Pyr’s thick, luxurious coat is surprisingly resistant to dirt and tangles. However, they do benefit from weekly brushing to keep them clean and mat-free. If you’re game, your dog pal will appreciate brushing several days a week (it feels good!), especially if you use a slicker or rake brush. A monthly bath is plenty, and if you spy matted fur, ask your vet about de-matting conditioners. When it comes to shedding, put your black wardrobe away! This dog’s undercoat sheds a ton, leaving a literal white trail all over your couch, floors—you name it. Add an extra brushing session or three to your routine to combat this blizzard. Remember your Pyr’s nails, which you should trim about every two weeks or anytime they start to touch the floor when the dog is standing (overly long nails may be painful). You’ll hear when it’s time—they’ll clack-clack-clack on hard surfaces. The last—though just as important—part of Great Pyrenees grooming is dental care. Strive to brush your pup’s teeth daily. Take them to the vet yearly for a professional cleaning to keep plaque at bay. Close

Training

Attempts to train your Great Pyrenees puppy may leave you feeling ignored but know you’re not alone. With this breed, independent thinking is a powerful trait. The reason? These guardian dogs are used to working alone—not having to sit and come each time you dangle a bacon-flavored nugget their way. Your best bet is to make training a positive experience (reward good behavior with treats, praise, and playtime) and keep the sessions short. Don’t overdo it with repetition lest your pup looks at you with disdain and sympathy. Change things up by training in various settings, and remember, be realistic with your training goals and know that while Great Pyrenees are an intelligent breed, they’re not like Border Collies or other types who typically excel at obedience and competitive sports. Slow and steady wins the training race with the Great Pyr (don’t worry, your pet will get there!). Close

Diet

The Great Pyrenees does well on high-quality commercial dog food that’s low-protein and specially made for large breeds. Always consider your dog’s age and choose a formula that fits their stage in life, whether they’re a puppy, adult or senior. Some Great Pyrenees pet parents have noticed this canine doesn’t gobble up kibble like other giant breeds, which may benefit the animal. Because a Pyr is susceptible to bloat, a gastrointestinal concern, serve smaller portions multiple times a day. Another feeding tip: Keep exercise to a minimum around mealtime to help reduce the risk of bloat. (More on bloat below in the Health section.) Treats are acceptable as a reward for extra good behavior and as a training enhancement, but don’t go wild. Too many yummy snacks add calories and could lead to obesity, which can lead to health problems down the road, like heart disease. Chat with your vet if you have questions about your pup’s diet (or if they need to shed a few pounds—not because of their coat). They’re in the best position to help you choose the right food and portions for your pup based on their unique needs. Close

Exercise

Great Pyrenees don’t need too much strenuous exercise to be happy and healthy. If you want a dog to hike with, this might not be your breed. Aim to exercise your canine pal for 20 to 30 minutes a couple of times daily (totaling about an hour). The most suitable movement for this big dog is walking or allowing your Pyr to move at their own pace in the park or dog run. (These dogs are not known for speed, so they don’t make good running buddies.) As a former sheep guardian, the Great Pyrenees is happiest on patrol, so their energy can be conserved in case a quick chase is necessary to protect a lost lamb. Still, while the Great Pyrenees isn’t highly active, exercise is important to maintain muscle strength and physical conditioning. Your Pyr pup will be content to stroll amiably in a fenced-in yard or at your side. Close

Environment

When you consider the Great Pyrenees as a pet, you can feel confident this pup will get along well with your little ones, although supervision is still recommended, especially considering the sheer size of the dog. The Great Pyr dog is also known to share space amicably with other dogs and cats. Outdoor space to patrol and pace is ideal for the Great Pyrenees (they would love acres of land!), which might rule out a small apartment or home in the city. However, you can meet your Great Pyrenees’ exercise needs anywhere if you’re consistent with outings. Their intelligence and independence are well established, but these traits may prove demanding for a first-time dog parent. New pet parents should be aware of training challenges and recognize this breed needs a confident and (very) patient leader. Climate plays a huge part in a Pyr’s ideal environment. Great Pyrenees were initially bred on snowy mountain tops, which means they’re accustomed to lower temperatures and sensitive to warm weather. That doesn’t mean they should be left outside in freezing temps. The bottom line is that a Pyr thrives best in cooler locations. If you live where it’s warm, keep your outdoor activity to the cooler parts of the day and ensure your pup has access to plenty of fresh, cool water. Close

Great Pyrenees Health

Great Pyrenees have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, and the breed suffers from several health issues. But that shouldn’t stop you from bringing this loveable giant into your home. With knowledge, regular vet visits, and a healthy diet and exercise routine, you can help your pup live the longest life possible.

Bloat or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): A genetic condition common to big dogs that may also have an environmental link, bloat causes the stomach to fill with air and then twist on itself. Immediate surgical care is typically necessary as bloat is life-threatening. You can try to prevent the occurrence of bloat by feeding your pup smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, using a slow feeder and waiting an hour on either side of mealtime before strenuous exercise. Eye Conditions

Great Pyrenees History

The Great Pyrenees’ history—and the breed’s name— has roots in the Pyrenees mountains, a soaring range that straddles France and Spain. This powerful breed’s lineage is ancient—people have discovered remains from as far back as the Bronze Age or 1800 to 1000 BC. This dog may have traveled to the Pyrenees from Central Asia thousands of years ago.
Originally bred to work with peasant livestock herders, French royals and the noble class later took a shine to this giant dog and put them to work guarding castles in southwest France. King Louis XIV even bestowed the special moniker “Royal Dog of France” upon the Great Pyrenees breed.
As a constant guardian, Pyrs are naturally nocturnal. They worked alongside shepherds and herding dogs to protect sheep flocks at night from animal predators (wolves, bears) and thieves. The Pyr has a high tendency to bark, partly because their job was to sound the alarm if anyone suspicious approached.
Queen Victoria of England also had a Pyr, and the breed was brought to the U.S. in 1824 by the great French military officer the Marquis de Lafayette, who served alongside George Washington during the American Revolution. The Pyr breed continued their military service with heroism during World War II. Their job? Hauling artillery supplies over the Pyrenees mountains in frigid weather.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1933, today’s Pyr is a beloved family canine who’s a watchful and cozy companion. If you’d like to have this pretty (giant) pup, they range from $1,750 to $2,500, and you can find reputable breeders at the AKC Marketplace. For that price, you’re likely getting a pup who’s been screened for health and temperament issues and may come with pedigree papers. If you’d like to adopt a dog, contact Great Pyrenees rescues, keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter.

FAQs

Are Great Pyrenees hypoallergenic?

No, Great Pyrenees are not hypoallergenic. This high-shedding breed has lots of fur and dander, making sensitive noses itch and scratch.

Do Great Pyrenees drool?

Yes, Great Pyrenees will drool a little, usually when eating or if they’ve been exercising. Pyr pups aren’t well-suited to hot weather and may pant (and drool) when overheated.

Are Great Pyrenees good with kids?

Yes, Great Pyrenees are known to be good with kids, and make excellent family companion. However, due to their sheer size and strength, supervision is recommended.

Do Great Pyrenees like water?

Great Pyrenees like water—to drink (and lots of it). In general, the Great Pyrenees isn’t a big swimmer, though some puppies can be introduced to water early and learn to love it. With such a heavy double coat and only moderate energy reserves, don’t expect your dog to paddle around the pool the way a dog bred to hunt water game, like a Labrador, will.

What are the most common Great Pyrenees mixes?

Great Pyrenees-German Shepherd mix (Germanees) Great Pyrenees-Labrador Retriever mix (Pyrador) Great Pyrenees-Golden Retriever mix (Great Pytriever, Golden Pyrenees) Great Pyrenees-Australian Shepherd mix (Great Aussie Pyrenees, Aussie Pyrenees) Great Pyrenees-Husky mix (Pyrenees Husky) Great Pyrenees-Poodle mix (Pyredoodle)

**Content sourced from www.chewy.com

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