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Great Pyrenees Facts (FAQ)The Great Pyrenees is known as the Gentle Giant. They are wonderful family dogs and very loyal. They're even-tempered and love attention, especially from children. While very intelligent, they can also be very independent and willful so they need consistent training. If you are looking for a dog who will be an “off leash” companion and will follow your every command, then the Pyrenees is probably not for you. They also have a natural tendency to roam, so it is important that when left outside in the yard all gates are closed and locked. Read on to learn more Great Pyrenees facts which will help you to decide if this dog breed is good for you.
Table of Contents Do Great Pyrenees shed?YES - The Great Pyrenees sheds all year, and they can shed a lot. Shedding can be minimized through routine grooming and regular brushing to remove dead hair, but it never stops completely.
Do Great Pyrenees bark a lot?YES - The Great Pyrenees do bark a lot as they were originally bred to be livestock guard dogs. They can bark as a reaction to unusual noises, but the amount of barking varies for each dog, with some dogs barking more than others.
Why do Pyrenees puppies need to have adult dogs in the home?Great Pyrenees learn their role from other dogs. The breed was created to be livestock guardians and even that role is not trained by humans, but by older dogs already successfully engaged in the work. The older dogs teach the appropriate behavior and this applies not only to working Pyrs, but family pets as well. As a rule, the breed is not a "people pleaser" (like a Retriever or Lab). Pyrs tend to learn more from interacting with other dogs rather than their people. They learn appropriate dog interaction and socialization and learn that biting hurts. Sadly, if not properly socialized as puppies they can become very difficult teens and adults.
What is the Great Pyrenees temperament?The Great Pyrenees temperament is confident, gentle and affectionate. While territorial and protective of their flock or family (when necessary), the general demeanor is one of quiet composure, patience and tolerance. They are strong-willed, independent and somewhat reserved, yet attentive, and are fearless and loyal to their charges (both human and animal). Regardless, the most well-behaved dog is a trained dog. Get Great Pyrenees training tips to get the most out of your "Gentle Giant."
Are Great Pyrenees aggressive guard dogs?NO - They will normally accept anyone whom you invite into your home, but their physical size can be intimidating to a first time visitor. Properly socialized Great Pyrenees are not attack dogs and are usually very responsible in exercising their guarding instincts. However, they do have guardian instincts against predators.
How long do Great Pyrenees live?The Great Pyrenees lifespan is about 10 to 12 years and have few major genetic problems.
How big are Great Pyrenees?The Great Pyrenees size differs between males and females. Males are larger than females, with their height ranging between 27 and 32 inches, while females range between 25 to 29 inches. Weight in males can range from 100 to 110 pounds, and females weigh between 85 to 100 pounds. What does a Great Pyrenees look like?
Head AppearanceThe width and length of the skull are about equal. The muzzle blends smoothly with the skull. The cheeks are flat. Eyes are a rich dark brown and almond shaped, set slightly oblique. Eyelids are close fitting with black rims, and a slight furrow exists between the eyes. The bony eyebrow ridges are only slightly developed. Lips are tight fitting with the upper lip just covering the lower lip. Great Pyrenees have a strong lower jaw, and the nose and lips are black. EarsGreat Pyrenees ears are of small to medium size and are shaped in a blunted triangle. Ears are carried low, flat, and close to the head. They almost disappear by blending into the fur of the neck and ruff. TailNormally, Great Pyrenees tails are carried low in repose. It should hang down so that the last bone of the tail reaches at least to the hock. A kink (Shepard’s crook) with one or two bones angled away from the straight tailbone alignment is acceptable. When in motion, the tail is carried either over the back or low. CoatDouble coated with a flat, thick, and coarse outer coat, the Great Pyrenees undercoat changes seasonally. Their seasonal undercoat is a dense growth of fine, woolly textured hair during the fall and typically sheds in the spring. Males' coats tend to be longer and more profuse, with thicker ruffs around the neck and shoulders. Coats should be straight or slightly waving (never curly or standing out from the body). Coat ColorGreat Pyrenees coat colors can vary. They may be all white, or they may be white with markings of gray, badger, reddish brown, or varying shades of tan. Markings of varying size can appear on the ears, head (including a full face mask), tail, and as a few body spots. The undercoat may be white or shaded, lending a different coat appearance in the fall when the seasonal undercoat is fullest. You can read more about the Great Pyrenees at the American Kennel Club (AKC) |
