Dog Breeds - Great Pyrenees

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others may treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed has towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can differ. It is crucial to supervise dogs around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is essential to always supervise and control dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to be naturally more inclined to get along with other dogs, whether it be at home or in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically leaves behind can vary. Breeds that are prone to high shedding may require more frequent brushing and are more likely to trigger certain types of allergies. Additionally, they may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the excess hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed, such as bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance, can vary. It is important to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you have for this type of care when evaluating the grooming effort required. However, all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary. If you value cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the best choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The friendliness of a breed towards strangers can vary. Some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers regardless of the situation, while others will eagerly greet new humans whenever they are around.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The enthusiasm for play in a breed can vary even beyond the puppyhood stage. Some breeds will continue to enjoy activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to relax on the couch with you for the most part.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers can differ. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are also likely to become more friendly towards strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. This includes changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life. Some breeds may adjust more easily to such changes, while others may require more time and support to adapt successfully.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can differ among breeds. Some breeds are known for their innate desire to please their owners and are generally more receptive to training, while others may have a more independent nature and may require extra motivation or specialized training techniques. It is important to consider the breed's temperament and characteristics when assessing the trainability and eagerness to learn of a particular dog.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can vary. High-energy breeds tend to be ready for action and eager for their next adventure. They thrive on activities like running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are generally more content with a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. They are happier simply lounging around and snoozing. It is crucial to consider the breed's energy level and provide the appropriate amount of exercise and mental stimulation to ensure their well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The tendency of a breed to vocalize, whether through barks or howls can vary. Some breeds may be more prone to barking at every passer-by or even at birds in the window, while others may only bark in specific situations. It's also worth noting that some "barkless" breeds may still use other sounds to express themselves. It's important to consider the breed's vocalization tendencies and whether that aligns with your living situation and personal preferences.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs that have been developed for specific tasks may require plenty of mental challenges to engage their decision-making, problem-solving and concentration abilities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may become bored and find their own outlets for mental stimulation, which may not always align with what their owners want. It is important to provide appropriate mental stimulation for the breed's specific needs to ensure their well-being and prevent unwanted behaviors.

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CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members and familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others may treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed has towards children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can differ. It is crucial to supervise dogs around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is essential to always supervise and control dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to be naturally more inclined to get along with other dogs, whether it be at home or in public.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed typically leaves behind can vary. Breeds that are prone to high shedding may require more frequent brushing and are more likely to trigger certain types of allergies. Additionally, they may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to manage the excess hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The grooming needs of a breed, such as bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance, can vary. It is important to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you have for this type of care when evaluating the grooming effort required. However, all breeds require regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary. If you value cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the best choice for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
The friendliness of a breed towards strangers can vary. Some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around all strangers regardless of the situation, while others will eagerly greet new humans whenever they are around.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The enthusiasm for play in a breed can vary even beyond the puppyhood stage. Some breeds will continue to enjoy activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to relax on the couch with you for the most part.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
The tendency of a breed to alert you of the presence of strangers can differ. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, these breeds are also likely to become more friendly towards strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. This includes changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life. Some breeds may adjust more easily to such changes, while others may require more time and support to adapt successfully.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can differ among breeds. Some breeds are known for their innate desire to please their owners and are generally more receptive to training, while others may have a more independent nature and may require extra motivation or specialized training techniques. It is important to consider the breed's temperament and characteristics when assessing the trainability and eagerness to learn of a particular dog.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed needs can vary. High-energy breeds tend to be ready for action and eager for their next adventure. They thrive on activities like running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds are generally more content with a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle. They are happier simply lounging around and snoozing. It is crucial to consider the breed's energy level and provide the appropriate amount of exercise and mental stimulation to ensure their well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
The amount of mental stimulation a breed needs to stay happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs that have been developed for specific tasks may require plenty of mental challenges to engage their decision-making, problem-solving and concentration abilities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may become bored and find their own outlets for mental stimulation, which may not always align with what their owners want. It is important to provide appropriate mental stimulation for the breed's specific needs to ensure their well-being and prevent unwanted behaviors.
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About The Breed

Great Pyrenees, as described are large powerful working dogs with a thick coat. Originally bred to protect livestock from predators, these dogs have transformed into mellow companions and dedicated guardians of home and family. They are often revered for their majestic appearance and can reach impressive sizes with a height of up to 32 inches and weighs exceeding 100 pounds. While generally calm and composed, they are capable of swift and graceful action when faced with a threat. Their weatherproof coats come in white or with markings of varying shades of gray, tan, reddish-brown or badger.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A GREAT PYRENEES

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Great Pyrenees: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Ethical breeders focusing on Great Pyrenees have made significant strides in prioritizing the health of the breed. The Great Pyrenees Club of America has emphasized the importance of testing dogs for various conditions that can impact the breed. These tests typically include screening for elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders, luxating patellas, as well as neurological and immune-mediated disorders. Additionally, they recognize that certain cancers and bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach distends and may twist can occur in the breed. Responsible Pyr owners should educate themselves about the signs of bloat and what steps to take in case of an emergency. By prioritizing health testing and awareness, breeders and owners alike strive to improve the overall well-being of Great Pyrenees. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation

Grooming

	Despite their abundant fur, Great Pyrenees don't require extensive grooming, as their coat is resistant to dirt and tangles. They possess a double coat consisting of a long outer coat and a soft undercoat. However, they do shed their undercoat quite heavily leading to a "snowstorm" of hair, as described by some owners. Shedding tends to occur in the spring after whelping and sometimes before or after dog shows. To manage shedding and minimize hair around the house regular brushing with a pin brush or slicker brush at least once a week is recommended. It's also important to trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort. Additionally, dental hygiene is crucial and brushing their teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste is ideal.

Exercise

	You are correct. Great Pyrenees are not considered a highly active breed in terms of exercise requirements. Originally developed as livestock guardians, their primary role was to protect flocks from various threats like wolves, bears and even human intruders. While working, they tend to conserve their energy for the purpose of defending their flock and patrolling their territory. Although they do not require excessive exercise moderate physical activities such as regular walks with their owners are beneficial to keep them healthy and content. Additionally, involving them in canine activities like obedience trials and cart-pulling can provide both mental and physical stimulation for the breed.

Training

	Great Pyrenees being independent thinkers. Due to their breeding as livestock guardians, they were purposefully developed to work autonomously relying on their judgment and instincts to watch over and protect their flocks. While they are intelligent dogs, they often display indifference towards standard obedience training. They may not see the value in commands like sitting, heeling, or staying and their responses may be slow and deliberate. This is because they tend to prioritize their own assessment of what tasks are important. However, despite their independent nature, early socialization and puppy training classes are still highly recommended for Great Pyrenees to help them become well-adjusted and well-mannered companions. These activities can contribute to their overall development and ensure that they interact appropriately with people and other animals.

Nutrition

	Great Pyrenees are known to have a relatively modest appetite compared to dogs of similar size. However, if another dog shows interest in their food, they may quickly consume it as if they haven't eaten in a while, as some owners have observed. It is important to provide them with a high-quality dry dog food specifically formulated for large breeds. Opting for a low-protein diet is often recommended. One health concern for the breed is a condition called bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), where the stomach expands and twists. While the exact causes of bloat are not fully understood experts suggest that feeding multiple small meals per day and avoiding vigorous exercise around mealtimes can help reduce the chances of this condition. These measures may help prevent the stomach from becoming overly distended and potentially twisting.

Historiography

Great Pyrenees have a rich history of working alongside shepherds and herding dogs in the Pyrenees Mountains, which serve as a natural border between France and Spain. Their primary role was to diligently watch over the flock and discourage any potential threats, including wolves, bears or even livestock rustlers. The breed's innate patience proved invaluable when enduring long periods atop freezing-cold mountains with nothing to do besides keeping a vigilant eye on the sheep. Their reputation for courage is legendary especially when it comes to defending the flock from any danger that may arise. Great Pyrenees have a long-standing heritage as reliable and attentive working dogs in the mountains.