Dog class -Working
Average height - 25 to 32 inches
Average weight - 85 to 125 pounds
Size - Large to giant
Coat - Thick, medium-length double coat
Average life span - 9 to 10 years

The Great Pyrenees is a rather large dog, often solid white or mostly white with a few gray or tan markings. Its ears often hang down as well. A calm and purposeful dog, the Great Pyrenees loves cold weather and needs lots of space to roam. In addition, this breed is independent but very protective, often becoming extremely attached to one particular person.

The Great Pyrenees is an old breed from the high, isolated Pyrenean mountains between France and Spain. The dog would guard sheep flocks against wolves or bears. During the Medieval period in France, this breed became the royal court dog and guardian of the nobility. During World War Two, the Great Pyrenees often ran contraband over the Franco-Spanish border. Today, the breed is still often used as a herd dog or cart dog, but also as a companion and, occasionally, a pack dog on ski trips!

Do NOT wrestle or play other, aggressive games like tug-of-war with this breed. In addition, these dogs have very little retrieving instinct, so playing fetch will be frustrating for both of you! Your best bet is a long walk ALWAYS keeping your Pyrenees leashed.

This breed combines a number of wonderful qualities: great intelligence, good health, deep devotion to family and home, and a natural born instinct to guard and protect. This dog loves cold weather and lots of open space to roam and explore. They require little trimming or clipping, and remain relatively inactive when indoors. However, these large dogs are wonderful watch dogs. They are not "attack" dogs, but often their size alone will intimidate most would-be attackers!

The Great Pyrenees has few genetic problems, but can suffer from such common disorders as hip dysplasia, eyelid abnormalities, and bloat. Of special note is the breed's low metabolism which can have negative side-effects if aesthetic is administered improperly by your vet. In addition, never clip your Pyrenees in the summer, as these dogs need their coats to protect them from the harsh sun.

The Great Pyrenees has a low level of sociability with strangers. In addition, they require a lot of exercise - at least four walks a day of thirty minutes each. They can be difficult to train, and are only recommended for very experienced owners. They must be leashed at all times if not in a fenced yard as they will, by instinct, attempt to patrol and control a large area.

This large and beautiful dog was a born herder, so be careful not to let your Pyrenees off its leash, or else you might find a herd of stray cattle in your yard the next morning!

Further Great Pyrenees Dog Resources

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