CritterPages Home        Dogs Home        Search Dogs

Great Pyrenees

 

Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, this magnificent white breed is probably related to several other European guarding mastiffs, such as the Hungarian Kuvasz and the Italian Maremma, as well as the St. Bernard and the Newfoundland.  They have been used for many centuries to guard flocks in the rocky, inhospitable Pyrenees, as well as to haul sleds.  When first adopted as house-hold pets, Great Pyrenees were often rather aggressive, though selective breeding over recent years has significantly reduced this trait.

Breed Category

Working Dog

Temperament

Great Pyrenees are gently, faithful, and affectionate family pets, and they make very good watchdogs.  However, they are often slow to mature--both physically and mentally--and it is important that they are well socialized and trained from and early age.

Appearance

Keen-eyed and alert, Great Pyrenees have a friendly, dignified demeanor.  They are substantial dogs--immensely strong, with great stamina.  The beautiful white topcoat is profuse, long, and flat, and provides vital protection against the elements.  It almost forms a mane around the regal, wedge-shaped head.  Small, triangular ears hang down from eye level against the head.  The body is muscular, and the thick tail reaches the floor or may curve over the back.

Size:    Height at withers 25-32 in

Weight:    85-132 lbs  

Exercise Requirements:    Moderate to Considerable

Grooming Requirements:    Considerable

Life Expectancy:    9-11 years

Things to Consider

  1. They shed constantly and need daily grooming to prevent matting.

 

 

 

Source

Information taken from "DOGS: An Owner's Guide"

Writer and Editor: Helen Stillwell

Photo taken from www.akc.org