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Great Pyrenees Dog Breed Information

  • AKA:Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Chien des Pyrenees, Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees
  • Size:Giant
  • Ease of Training:Low/Medium
  • Grooming:Low
  • Shedding:High
  • Exercise Needed:Daily Walk
  • Energy Level:Low/Medium
  • Protection:High
  • Good with Children:Yes, especially when raised with children
  • Health Clearances:OFA, CERF, vWD
  • Weight:Male: 110–120 pounds, female: 80–90 pounds
  • Height:Male: 27–32 inches, Female: 25–29 inches
  • Coat Colour:varying shades of gray, red (rust), or tan

Great Pyrenees Coat

The Great Pyrenees has a beautiful solid white double coat. The outer coat must be coarse and long, and is either straight or very slightly wavy. The undercoat should be thick and soft, somewhat like cotton. The coat of this breed is weather resistant.

Great Pyrenees Character

Sometimes stubborn and independent, the Great Pyrenees is very loyal but wary of unfamiliar people or animals. Basically well mannered and affectionate, this breed does do well for companion purposes but shows his true colors in a country environment.

Great Pyrenees Temperament

Gentle, affectionate, obedient and eager to please, this breed does exceptionally well as a guardian of livestock. Commonly used for sheep and cattle. As the Great Pyrenees can be willful, training can be difficult. Good with other animals, and does surprisingly well with cats.

Great Pyrenees Care

Shedding heavily once a year, the Great Pyrenees requires much maintenance during this period. Regular brushing is always necessary with a medium to long haired breed, and should be brushed all the way to the undercoat to prevent matting. Occasional baths are acceptable.

Great Pyrenees Activity

The Great Pyrenees does not do well in apartment life, and should always have a medium to large sized yard. Regular runs off lead are best for this large dog, but supervised walks will also do.

Great Pyrenees Health and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Great Pyrenees is around 8-12 years, and there are a number of health problems that are associated with the breed. This includes elbow dysplasia and HD, luxating patella, entropion, cataracts, bleeding problems, and spinal problems. The parents of the Great Pyrenees puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.