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Great Pyrenees (Pyrenean Mountain Dog)
Medium Breed
The Great Pyrenees is a dog of good size, strongly built, yet of great beauty and elegance. Among the breed's many talents are: herding, watchdog, guarding, search and rescue, sledding and carting.
Breed standards
Country of origin
France
Weight
Males 45.5-56.8kg / 100-125lbs;
Females 40.9-52.3kg / 90-115lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males 70-80cm / 27.5-31.5in;
Females 65-75cm / 25.5-29.5in (standards may vary)
Coat
Medium to long coat
Markings
White. May have grey, yellow or orange patches on the head, ears, base of the tail and sometimes on the body. Badger-grey patches are most desirable.
Lifespan
Under 10 years
The breed's general demeanour is of quiet composure, calm and gentle, yet a courageous protector of the family. The Great Pyrenees is tolerant of children and very patient, highly affectionate to those he loves. The Great Pyrenees makes a loveable addition to any family home.
Temperament
The Great Pyrenees is courageous, fearless, loyal and protective of his family and home. His general demeanour is of quiet composure; he is calm and gentle, reserved yet attentive to those he loves. Patient and tolerant, he is good with non-canines and usually a cat lover. The Great Pyrenees is a delight to have around the home, although he has a propensity for independence and is a natural protection dog, therefore requires early socialisation and firm, consistent training.
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PoorChildrenGood
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VeryCombativenessNot very
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VeryDominanceNot very
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Not veryFriendlinessGood
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Not veryIndependenceVery
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LoudNoiseQuiet
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Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
Great Pyrenees are magnificent large breed dogs, strongly built but of great elegance and majestic appearance, covered in thick, white, bright coats. Although possessing a strong instinct for guarding, they are also known to be affectionate and gentle with children.
- Makes a wonderful family pet
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- Excels as a watchdog and guard
- Does not require trimming or stripping
- Relatively inactive indoors
- Regular grooming is needed
- Some trimming and stripping are required
- Known to be a seasonally heavy shedder
- Not recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient, daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Can be prone to hip dysplasia and skin problems in hot weather