Great Pyrenees

Breed Profile

The Pyrenean Mountain Dog , known as the Great Pyrenees in North America, is a massive breed of dog used as a livestock guardian dog. It is often confused with the Pyrenean Mastiff. The Great Pyrenees can be traced to hundreds of years by shepherds, including those of the Basque people who inhabit parts of the region in and around the Pyrenees Mountains of southern France and northern Spain (specifically Aragon and Navarre).

Temperament

The Great Pyrenees is known to be confident , tender and affectionate, especially with children. While territoria, loyal and protective of its flock or family when necessary, it is inherently patient. It is a determined, independent and reserved breed. It is also attentive, bold, and takes its duties very seriously. The Great Pyrenees’ sheer size makes it an imposing guardian.

Color & Coat

Coat: The weather-resistant double coat consists of a long, flat, thick, outer coat of coarse hair, straight or slightly undulating, and lying over a dense, fine, woolly undercoat. The coat is more profuse about the neck and shoulders where it forms a ruff or mane which is more pronounced in males so that it may fend off wolf attacks

Color: White

Living Environment

The Great Pyrenees are not recommended for apartment life and would be better off with a mid-to-large sized yard. They are not really active indoors, but need daily fixes of outdoor exercises. A fence is a must as they may go off afield. This breed is good with children. It is also friendly toward other pets and shy toward strangers.

Health

Not all Great Pyrs will get any or all of these diseases, but it’s important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed. Bone Care, Gastric Torsion, Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation.