Great Pyrenees
Quick Summary
Noble guardian breed best suited for experienced owners with space. Combines protective instincts with gentle family devotion. Requires commitment to training and maintenance.
Contents
Weight Range
85-100 lbs
♂ Male: 110-120 lbs
♀ Female: 80-90 lbs
Height Range
64-81 inches
♂ Male: 27-32"
♀ Female: 27-32"
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Mountain guardians in the Pyrenees range between France and Spain, protecting sheep from wolves and bears since medieval times
Popularity
#66
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 27"-32" |
| Female Height | 27"-32" |
| Male Weight | 110-120 lbs |
| Female Weight | 80-90 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,500-3,000 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses around $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs average $500-800, with potential for higher emergency expenses.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Calm and patient guardians with natural protective instincts. Shows remarkable gentleness with family while maintaining vigilant watch. Independent thinkers who may challenge authority but respond well to consistent, positive training.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed that bonds deeply with family but can be independent. Generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Can tolerate alone time but prefers company and needs purpose.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, Great Pyrenees dogs possess a thick white double coat that protected them from harsh mountain elements. Their muscular build and imposing presence belie their gentle, patient nature. Distinguished by a wedge-shaped head, dark almond eyes, and weather-resistant coat, these dogs maintain a calm, dignified bearing that reflects their heritage as noble guardians.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent guardian
- ✓ Gentle with family
- ✓ Independent nature
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Weather-resistant coat
Cons
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Stubborn streak
- ✗ Needs space
- ✗ Independent nature
- ✗ Barking tendency
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Smart, Patient, Calm |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including moderate walks and patrolling their territory. While not highly energetic, they need consistent activity to maintain physical and mental well-being. Prefers cool weather for outdoor activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Great Pyrenees require 4-6 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for growth rate in puppies. Prone to bloat, so proper feeding schedule and elevated bowls recommended.
Feed 4-6 cups of high-quality large breed food daily, split into two meals. Puppy food should be specific to large breeds to control growth rate. Monitor weight closely as adults can be prone to obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Needs substantial space with a securely fenced yard. Best suited for homes with large outdoor areas. Thrives in cool climates but can adapt to moderate temperatures with proper care.
Requires large, securely fenced yard for patrolling. Minimum half-acre recommended. Can adapt to suburban life with adequate exercise but not suited for apartment living. Needs space to fulfill guardian instincts.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the Pyrenees Mountains as livestock guardians, these dogs worked independently to protect flocks from predators. Their white coat helped shepherds distinguish them from wolves in low light, while their size and strength allowed them to confront bears.
Historical Purpose
Mountain guardians in the Pyrenees range between France and Spain, protecting sheep from wolves and bears since medieval times. Valued for their independence and protective instincts.
Fun Fact
Great Pyrenees were once appointed as official guard dogs for the French royal court in medieval times.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming needed for heavy coat. Requires secure fencing due to roaming instincts. Early socialization essential for balanced temperament.