History, Characteristics, Grooming, Training and Other Useful Information for Dog Owners
The Great Pyrenees (Pyr) is a large, accommodating & friendly working dog developed in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain to protect livestock. They are characterized by their majestic white coats, protective nature, and loving disposition which make them wonderful family dogs when socialized to others. But they need to be trained, groomed and often bark a lot. If you’re looking for a peaceful, affectionate pet that can double as a natural guard dog then the Great Pyrenees is your breed.
One of the most amazing dogs in the world, The Great Pyrenees or Pyrenean Mountain dog is celebrated for their sweet temperament and intelligence. These dogs have been working as livestock guardians for ages and — with his snowy double coat, gigantic size and aristocratic expression. Today they are beloved as companions, therapy dogs and family pets who provide comfort and protection to their families.
The guide includes the breed’s history, characteristics and care needs, grooming basics, health issues to be aware of, training tips and how you can adopt one of these big-hearted giants to walk by your side.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Measurements Height: 27 – 32 inches (male), 25 – 29 inches (female)
- Female Weight: 85 –115 lbs
- Male Weight: 100 –160 lbs
- Coat: Thick, double coat
- Colors: Mostly white, can have gray, tan, red-brown or badger markings
- Life Span: 10 –12 years
- Temperament: Loyal, Affectionate, Patient, Confident, Fearless and Strong-Willed
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Origin: Pyrenees Mountains (France/Spain)
Characteristics of the Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees – a gentle giant with a guardian spirit. Despite their enormous size, they are gentle giants and love being around children, as well as other pets if they have been raised with them. But their guard-dog instincts might lead them to bark at night – a reflection of their historic role as flock guardians.
Temperament Scale (Low – Medium – High)
- Affection Level: High
- Kid-Friendly: High
- Pet-Friendly: Medium to High (early socialization a must; some same-sex aggression possible)
- Trainability: Medium
- Intelligence: Medium
- Barking Tendency: High
- Shedding: High
- Exercise Needs: Moderate
History of the Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are believed to have originated up to thousands of years ago in the Pyrenees Mountains as descendents of large, mastiff-type dogs that accompanied the Aryan people move west from Asia. By 1000 B.C., the breed had become well established in the Pyrenees Mountains that run along the border of France and Spain, where shepherds developed them into reliable livestock guardians.
It was there that their grace and power found favor with French nobility during the 17th century, when they were termed palace guard dogs. General Lafayette brought the breed to the US in 1824 and by 1933, this breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Prominent fans included Queen Victoria of England, who owned Pyrenean Mountain Dogs.
Care Requirements
Exercise
For their size, Great Pyrenees are moderate energy dogs. They do well with regular walks (30 to 40 minutes, minimum) and the freedom of a secure yard in which to play. They thrive in cold weather and have thicker coats; however, they are heat sensitive.
Grooming
- Brushing: once or twice a week (daily during heavy shedding periods)
- Bathing: Every 2 – 3 months (dirt is naturally repelled by coat)
- Coat: Do not shave ever – there are plenty of all seasons insulation that come in a double coat.
- Nails: Keep trimmed (don’t forget those rear double dewclaws)
- Teeth & Ears: Clean and brush weekly.
Health Concerns
The Great Pyrenees is a generally hardy breed but susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, eye entropion, and cataracts. Subluxating patella is also common. Be sure to undertake routine veterinary care.
Nutrition
Division at two meals daily, servings of a large breed formula for about four to six cups. Do not feed immediately before or after exercise to reduce bloating risks.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Great Pyrenees
Do some research to contrast the breed’s expectations and decide if Pyrs are the best. Find reputable breeders and the following rescues:
- Breeders: $1,500 for a pet puppy to $4,000 for the best lineage puppies
- Rescues: Great Pyrenees Rescue Society, National Pyr Rescue
- Consider the Humane Society of the United States premise.
Similar Breeds
Other breeds that behave like Pyrrenees include Leonberger, Newfoundland, St. Bernard.
Conclusion
The noble Great Pyrenees, a flock-guarding breed raised for centuries in the vast Pyrenees mountains, is steadfastly courageous and gentle for both home and herd. They are affectionate and docile inside, but need room, regular training and grooming.
The Great Pyrenees are fiercely loyal to those they know and love, and once you’re a part of the pack, he’ll protect you as if his life depends on it… because in some ways, it kind of does. For someone experienced in handling dogs that requires minimum effort for obedience training this breed makes an ideal pet.
FAQs About the Great Pyrenees
Q1: Are Great Pyrenees good family dogs?
Yes. While calm, independent, and loving, they need supervision with children.
Q2: Do Great Pyrenees bark?
Yes. It’s a natural instinct with their alertness standards, especially at night. Therefore, a proper training strategy should be implemented.
Q3: Are Great Pyrenees easy to train?
They are smart but stubborn and therefore require firm, positive reinforcement. May not be the best for novice doggy parents.
Q4. Are Great Pyrenees dogs high maintenance?
Yes. They blow their coat quite a bit and should be brushed to maintain their coat health and reduce shedding.
Q5. Can Great Pyrenees be apartment dogs?
No. They are good with space, and need a secure yard, but they are likely to bark quite frequently so are not recommended for apartment living.
Q6. What is the lifespan of a Great Pyrenees?
Lifespan: Usually ranges from 10 to 12 years, which is standard for a giant breed.
Q7. Do Great Pyrenees get along with other pets?
When properly socialized, they generally do fine, although some same-sex aggression can be seen in adult Slate Blue Aussies.
Dr. Johnson Coleman is a dedicated veterinary expert with over 10 years of hands-on experience in animal health and wellness. His mission is to help pets live longer, happier lives through compassionate care, practical guidance, and a genuine love for animals.
After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, Dr. Coleman spent a decade working in both private clinics and community shelters, where he gained deep expertise in preventive medicine, pet nutrition, and behavioral care.
He believes that pet owners deserve reliable, easy-to-understand information about their companions’ health. Through his writing, Dr. Coleman breaks down complex veterinary topics into friendly, actionable advice that helps readers make informed decisions for their pets.
Outside of his professional work, Dr. Coleman volunteers with local animal rescue groups and enjoys spending time outdoors with his two golden retrievers. His lifelong dedication to animal welfare continues to inspire his work and connect with pet lovers around the world.
