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Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a large working breed that requires plenty of exercise. This native of France makes a good family dog but does require regular grooming.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Great Pyrenees
Physical Characteristics
- Large, strong, solid build
- Wedge-shaped head, dark-colored nose and small, triangular ears
- Almond-shaped eyes
- Strong legs with small feet
- Long, feathered tail
- Coat: Flat, long, abundant hair is weatherproof, and comes in white, possibly with gray, brown or tan markings
- Height: 25-32 inches
- Weight: 85-100 pounds
- Average lifespan: 9-11 years
Temperament
- Even-tempered, affectionate, stubborn, poised, brave, loyal
- Interaction with people: Good with children; wary of strangers
- Interaction with animals: Males may be aggressive toward other dogs; good with cats and other small pets
- Training: Can be dominant; needs an assertive owner. Takes two years to completely mature
- Bark: Can be highly vocal if provoked
- Protection: Good guard dog; highly protective
Medical Conditions
- Addison's disease (hormonal disorder)
- Cancers (including hemaingiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, lymphoma and mast cell tumors)
- Congential cardiac disease (includung subvalvular aortic stenosis)
- Deafness
- Degenerative myelopathy (spinal cord disease)
- Glanzman's Thrombasthenia (blood disorder)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Ophthalmic disorders (including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy)
- Osteochondritis dissecans (defect in cartilage)
- Patellar luxation
- Sebaceous Adenitis (skin disorder)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Not recommended for apartments
- Needs an average- to large-size yard
- Needs daily exercise
- Needs space, but adapts well to home life
- Prefers cool climates
Grooming
- Sheds heavily once annually; additional care is required at this time
- Needs regular brushing
- Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary
Other Facts
- Also known as the "Pyrenean mountain dog" and "le grande chien des montagnes" or "the big dog of the mountains"
- May have been used in the ancient past as a dog of war
- Adopted as an official dog of the French court in the 17th century
- First brought to the U.S. in 1824
Breed History
- Native to France
- Ancestors of this breed are said to have migrated to Europe from Central Asia and Siberia
- Fossilized remnants of this breed found in Europe are said to date back to 1800-1000 B.C.
- Historically worked as a guard dog of flocks in the Pyrenees Mountains, where its loyal temperament was developed
- This was a popular guard dog among the French aristocracy during the 17th century
- Used as a guard dog, rescue dog, cart puller, companion and protector
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Great Pyrenees Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit GPCA Rescue
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