Great Pyrenees

Origin and History

The Great Pyrenees (Pyrenean Mountain Dog) is a giant livestock guardian dog bred in the Pyrenees mountains on the French-Spanish border to protect flocks from wolves and bears. With its calm yet courageous nature, it has been a trusted partner of shepherds for centuries.

Appearance and Coat

It has a giant, powerful and majestic body. Its thick, weather-resistant, long double coat is usually white or white with gray shades; it sheds heavily and needs regular grooming. It is exceptionally resistant to cold.

Character and Temperament

The Great Pyrenees is calm, gentle and loyal. It is devoted to its family and flock and extremely protective and gentle with children. It has an independent-minded, dignified yet fearless-when-needed nature. It is alert at night and prone to barking.

Care, Exercise and Training

Its thick coat needs regular brushing; it sheds heavily. It needs moderate exercise. Because of its strong guarding instinct and independent nature, early socialization and patient, consistent training are important; its tendency to bark should be managed.

Health

Because of its giant size, hip/elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion (GDV), luxating patella and some neurological problems may occur. Regular checkups are recommended. The Great Pyrenees suits families looking for a calm, gentle and powerful guardian who can provide plenty of space, coat care and socialization.