Great Pyrenees Dog Breed Profile

by Amanda

AKC Group: Working Group

The Great Pyrenees has been used for hundreds of years by shepherds of Northern Spain and Southern France. A beautiful white dog with a fluffy coat, it makes for a great family dog. Known for its keen eyesight and sense of smell.

History

It's believed that Great Pyrenees came from Siberia or Central Asia during the Aryan migration to Europe. The dog takes the name from a mountain range in southwestern Europe, where they were accustomed to protecting flocks.

During the 1500's it was popular with French royalty like Grand Dauphin. While not a popular breed of dog these days, it can be seen occasionally in movies like Finding Neverland.

Physical Features

Great Pyrenees dog delivers the unique perception of classiness and unrivaled beauty blended with majesty and great overall size. He has a principally white coat that could have markings of harass, gray, or different colors of tan. The height ranges from twenty-seven inches to thirty-two inches for males and from twenty five inches to twenty nine inches for bitches. A twenty-seven inch dog weighs around one hundred pounds and twenty five inch bitch weighs around eighty five pounds. Weight is at proportion to the entire structure and size. White or white with pads of badger, gray, reddish brown, or ranging shades of tan. Spots of ranging size may show on the tail, head, ears, and somebody spots. The undercoat could be shaded or white.

Personality

The breed is a capable and imposing protector, dedicated to its family, and relatively cautious about strangers - canine or human. They can be used to defend livestock. When not active, it's quiet, well- mannered, and relatively serious. Brave, very devoted and obedient. Caring and loving to those he loves. Dedicated to family even when self-sacrifice is needed. It's very tender with family and kids.

Common Health Problems

The Great Pyrenees dog is susceptible to bloat, bone cancer, hip dysplasia, luxated patella. Can have skin problems in hot weather.

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