Great Pyrenees are the sweetest gentle giants and they can be excellent pets. However, they have some specific requirements and quirks you may not expect. I’ve studied Great Pyrenees for years, so I can help you determine whether the Great Pyrenees is the best dog for your home. So what sets this regal breed apart?
Great Pyrenees Breed Overview
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed. They’re a large, strong dog with an impressive stature. While these gentle giants have a history as livestock protectors, today, they’re beloved family pets.
Let’s discuss their physical attributes:
- Size: Males weigh 100 to 160 pounds and females weigh 85 to 115 pounds
- Height: 25 to 32 inches at the shoulder
- Coat: Thick, double coat that is white (can have markings)
- Face: Wedge-shaped head, almond eyes
Their temperament is gentle and patient. The Great Pyrenees is prized for its loyalty and protective instincts. They are also independent, which can make training challenging.
They have a long history as a breed. For thousands of years, Great Pyrenees lived in the Pyrenees Mountains protecting livestock. Today, they are still used as working dogs, but also make great pets.
The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1933, and as of 2021, it is the 66th most popular AKC breed. The average Great Pyrenees lifespan is 10 to 12 years.
I have experience with many Great Pyrenees, and they are docile with their family, while also being fiercely protective. Keep in mind that this is a large dog breed, so they do best if you have a yard. They don’t do well in an apartment.
Great Pyrenees Origin and History
Great Pyrenees have an ancient heritage, as evidence of these dogs dates back thousands of years. Let’s take a closer look at their interesting history:
- Fossil evidence of the Great Pyrenees dates back to 1800-1000 B.C.
- Early uses included guarding livestock and as a noble companion
The breed originated in the Pyrenees Mountains, a large range separating France and Spain. Their main job was to protect sheep from predators. They were known for their independent nature and ability to make decisions to protect their flock.
Over time, the Great Pyrenees spread to other countries. People traveling to various parts of the world, including Europe and other continents, brought them along. They were used in various capacities, from working dogs to loyal companions.
The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1933, aligning with a shift from primarily a working dog to a show and companion dog in the United States.
I’ve researched the history of most dog breeds, and the Great Pyrenees is one of the most fascinating. Few dog breeds have as much history, and they are one of the only ancient breeds that still serves a useful purpose today. In fact, they are often considered one of the best low maintenance guard dogs due to their natural protective instincts and calm demeanor.
Temperament and Behavior of the Gentle Giant
Great Pyrenees have a unique personality. They are gentle giants with a calm demeanor. Yet they also have a strong protective instinct. Here are the main characteristics of Great Pyrenees:
- Gentle and loving with their family
- Protective of their family and home
- Independent and can be stubborn
- Patient with children
- Aloof with strangers
They are incredibly loyal to their family. They are particularly tolerant of children. I have seen Great Pyrenees allow children to do just about anything to them.
With other animals, Great Pyrenees are typically very tolerant. They get along well with other dogs and even cats. Their guardian instincts extends to the entire “flock.”
They make excellent family dogs. They are very relaxed indoors and won’t demand constant attention. However, they do still need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Their protectiveness means they will likely bark often at what they views as potential threats. This can be problematic if you live in a more urban environment. Early socialization is key to preventing them from being overly protective.
In my experience, Great Pyrenees make phenomenal family dogs. They’re affectionate, patient and protective. However, they’re not the best fit for everyone, as their size and independence requires an experienced owner.
Essential Care for Mountain Guardian Dogs
Caring for a Great Pyrenees is a big responsibility. They have various needs you must fulfill. Here are their care requirements:
- Exercise: 20-30 minutes of activity each day
- Grooming: Regular brushing and weekly baths
- Nutrition: Large breed dog food of excellent quality
- Living space: Large yard or rural area is best
Great Pyrenees don’t require much exercise. A daily walk and a little playtime are typically sufficient. They enjoy the outdoors, particularly in cooler weather.
Grooming is a major chore. Their thick double coat sheds a lot, so you must brush them regularly to prevent matting. They also drool, so expect to do some cleaning.
Nutritionally, they need a high-quality diet designed specifically for large breeds. Be sure you control their portions to prevent them from becoming overweight. The best approach is to split their food into two or three meals each day.
These dogs need plenty of space. A large yard is an ideal living situation for them. They aren’t a good fit for apartment living, and they enjoy being outside, particularly in colder weather.
I’ve taken care of many Great Pyrenees dogs. They don’t require much exercise, but the grooming and space requirements are significant. So ensure you’re prepared to meet these needs.
Training a Great Pyrenees
Training a Great Pyrenees is a bit of a challenge. They are smart, though independent, which requires a patient and consistent approach to training. Here’s what you need to know about training a Great Pyrenees:
- Independent nature makes them stubborn
- Early socialization is important
- Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method
- You must be consistent in your training approach
- Training should start at an early age
Great Pyrenees dogs were bred to think independently, which can make them a little resistant to training. They often like to do their own thing.
Socializing them when they’re a puppy is critical, as this breed can become overprotective if you don’t.
Use positive reinforcement to train them, as they aren’t very responsive to harsh corrections. They respond best to treats, praise, and gentle guidance.
You need to be consistent with this breed, so ensure your entire family is giving the same commands and sticking to the same training rules. If not, your dog will get confused, which will slow down the training process.
Start training them when they’re a puppy. This is the best way to set them up for success, and they do slowly mature into well-behaved dogs. Just be patient with them. If you’re interested in focusing on their protective instincts, you might want to look into specific guard dog training techniques that are suitable for this breed.
Common Health Issues in Large Mountain Dogs
Great Pyrenees are a relatively healthy breed of dogs. However, like all dog breeds, they are susceptible to specific health issues. Here are the most common health concerns:
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Eye problems (entropion cataracts)
- Patellar luxation
- Elbow dysplasia
Regular visits to the vet are important. Many health issues can be prevented or managed with proper care if detected early. Genetic health testing allows you to address potential health issues before they become a problem.
Preventive health care is also important. Keep your Great Pyr at a healthy weight to reduce joint issues. Offer smaller meals to prevent bloat. Regular exercise will also help keep muscles and joints healthy.
I’ve spoken to many Great Pyrenees owners, and most of the health issues can be managed with proper care. Visit the vet regularly, feed your dog a healthy diet, and give them the right amount of exercise, and you can avoid many health issues.
Majestic Mountain Guardians at Work
Great Pyrenees are excellent working dogs because of their history as a livestock guardian. Let’s consider the traditional and modern roles of a Great Pyrenees:
Traditional role: Livestock guardian
Mountain rescue worker
Modern role: Therapy dog
Search and rescue worker
These dogs possess specific characteristics that make them great workers. They are intelligent, independent, and protective. They have the independence to fulfill these guardian roles and make decisions on their own.
Training them for a specific task requires some patience because of their independence. They tend to be a bit stubborn when you try to train them to do something specific. However, they are intelligent and learn quickly if you can make it known what you want them to do.
Some Great Pyrenees still work as livestock guardians, and they excel as search and rescue dogs. They are strong, can handle cold weather, and can work as mountain rescue dogs.
I’ve also seen them in various working roles, and they are always impressive in what they can do. Whether it’s guard a flock of animals or be a therapy dog, they work quietly and competently. Their versatility and protective nature make them excellent livestock guardian dogs, often chosen by farmers for their reliability and gentle yet protective temperament.
Grooming and Care for the Mountain Dog
Grooming a Great Pyrenees is a big job. Their double coat is very thick and requires regular maintenance. Here’s a quick overview:
- Brushing: Minimum of 2-3 times per week
- Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks or as necessary
- Shedding: They shed a lot seasonally
Nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks. Check and clean their ears once a week to prevent ear infections. As for their teeth, they need to be brushed a few times per week for adequate dental care.
Professional grooming can be useful, especially during heavy shedding seasons. A professional groomer can provide de-shedding treatments and ensure their coat is properly cared for.
I have personally groomed many Great Pyrenees. It takes a while, but grooming them is essential for their health and happiness. Additionally, grooming your Great Pyrenees will help you establish a stronger bond with it.
Great Pyrenees Diet and Nutrition
Great Pyrenees require a unique diet, ensuring they receive proper nutrition is essential. Here’s a quick overview of their dietary needs:
- Caloric needs: Depending on age and activity levels
- Protein: Moderate (20-25%)
- Fat: Lower fat content
Adult Great Pyrenees should eat twice per day. Puppies require more frequent meals. Great Pyrenees tend to pack on the pounds, so watch their portion sizes to avoid obesity, which can lead to joint issues later in life.
Select a premium large breed dog food. Choose a dog food with real meat listed as the first ingredient and avoid fillers and artificial preservatives.
Limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. You might consider supplements, but always ask your vet first.
I’ve helped many Great Pyrenees owners with their dog’s nutrition. The key is to give them a balanced diet based on their age and activity levels, and they also received regular weight checks. It’s important to note that Great Pyrenees puppies have specific nutritional needs, and you may want to consider large breed puppy food to support their growth and development.
Living with a Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees require space and are not a good fit for apartment living. Here’s why:
- Indoor: Require ample indoor space
- Outdoor: Large fenced yard is best
- Climate: Excellent in cooler climates poor in warmer climates
They’re excellent with children and are very gentle. However, their size can be too much for small children, so be cautious when your child is very young.
Great Pyrenees dogs typically coexist peacefully with other pets because of their protective instincts toward any living being they consider part of their family.
They can be a bit barky, especially at night, as barking is part of their guarding behavior. With some training, you can control excessive barking.
I’ve had Great Pyrenees dogs, and they make excellent pets, but again, they need space and someone who understands them. Because of their size and protective instincts, I recommend they be owned by someone with prior experience.
Adopting or Purchasing a Majestic Mountain Dog
Deciding to adopt/buy a Great Pyrenees is a major decision. Here’s what to look for:
Reputable breeders: Check references and ensure health clearances.
Adoption: Look for breed-specific rescues or check your local shelter.
Initial costs: $1000-$2500 for puppies; less for adults.
Ongoing expenses: Food, grooming, vet costs, etc.
When selecting a breeder, ask about health testing and references. You want to see the parent dogs and their environment. A good breeder should also ask you several questions.
Adoption is a great choice. Many Great Pyrenees end up in shelters. You can also find breed-specific rescues.
Prepare your house for a Great Pyrenees before you bring one home. You must have secure fencing. You should also get large breed dog supplies, like beds and food dishes.
Growing up, I helped my parents adopt Great Pyrenees dogs many times. While it’s a lot of fun, there are a few things you need to ensure you do correctly. Make sure you evaluate the dog’s traits and characteristics before adopting one. And as a reminder, make sure you really want a Great Pyrenees before you bring one home. If you’re considering other large, fluffy breeds, you might also want to explore big fluffy dog breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Great Pyrenees in Popular Culture
Great Pyrenees have been a part of popular culture. They’ve been featured in various media and have an extensive history. Let’s discuss:
- Famous dogs: Belle (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast)
- Historic figures: The beloved pet of Louis XIV of France
They’ve also been referenced in literature and movies. Their stunning appearance and friendly demeanor make them an excellent choice for visual media.
Great Pyrenees clubs and organizations help promote the breed. They host events, inform the public, and assist with rescue.
The breed has experienced varying levels of popularity over the years. While media references can raise breed awareness, it can also result in irresponsible breeding.
I’ve witnessed the power of popular culture on different dog breeds. Always look past media appearances when selecting a breed.
Great Pyrenees Breed Standards
Breed standards outline the ideal Great Pyrenees. These standards are what you’ll see in dog shows and breeding programs. This includes:
- Physical characteristics: Size, coat type, color, eye shape
- Temperament: Kind, confident, guarding instinct
While these details can vary slightly from one kennel club to another, the key characteristics are the same.
In dog shows, Great Pyrenees are judged based on how well they fit these standards. Specifically, judges evaluate their physical structure, movement, and temperament.
Breed standards are also important for responsible breeding. They ensure breeders continue producing dogs with the breed’s defining characteristics and good health.
I’ve read through breed standards for many dogs, and for the Great Pyrenees, they always discuss both physical and mental characteristics. This is because the breed is both a working and companion animal. While they are large dogs, it’s worth noting that some people consider Great Pyrenees as labrador guard dogs alternatives due to their protective nature and family-friendly temperament.
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Let’s Close This Out
I’ve owned Great Pyrenees for many years and they’re definitely a breed of their own. They’re best suited for an owner who recognizes their independent streak and strong guarding instincts. Great Pyrenees are not suitable for everyone. However, they are loyal gentle giants for the right family.
These massive white dogs require consistent training, ample room to roam, and regular grooming. You’ll also need plenty of patience to work through their stubbornness. Yet, their loving nature makes it all worth it.
If you’re willing to put in the work, a Great Pyrenees can be an excellent pet. Just expect a lot of shedding and a dog who believes they’re in charge!
