Pyrenean Shepherd
Quick Summary
Intelligent, agile herding dogs best suited for active owners. Excel in dog sports and need consistent training. Ideal for experienced handlers seeking an athletic, devoted companion.
Contents
Weight Range
15-30 lbs
♂ Male: 15-30 lbs
♀ Female: 15-30 lbs
Height Range
38-53 inches
♂ Male: 16-19"
♀ Female: 15-18"
Life Expectancy
0-0 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Herding Group
Originally bred for Mountain herders in the Pyrenees region of France since medieval times, these dogs expertly managed sheep flocks across challenging alpine terrain while working closely with shepherds
Popularity
#181
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 15.5"-18.5" |
| Female Height | 15"-18" |
| Male Weight | 15-30 lbs |
| Female Weight | 15-30 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive care, and grooming supplies. Regular veterinary care and potential health issues add to lifetime costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Energetic and intelligent herding dogs with strong work ethics. Display intense focus and enthusiasm for tasks while maintaining affectionate relationships with family. May show reserve with strangers but warm up quickly to accepted individuals.
Social Needs
Forms strong bonds with family and requires regular interaction. Can be reserved with strangers but generally good with other dogs when properly socialized. Moderate tolerance for being alone with proper training.
Breed Overview
Pyrenean Shepherds are agile, compact herding dogs with distinctive rough or smooth coats. Their alert expression, triangular ears, and lean muscular build reflect their heritage as nimble mountain herders. Standing 15-18.5 inches tall, they possess remarkable agility and stamina. Their intelligent eyes and responsive nature showcase their keen herding instincts and deep bond with their handlers.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly intelligent
- ✓ Excellent agility
- ✓ Strong herding instinct
- ✓ Devoted to family
- ✓ Low maintenance coat
Cons
- ✗ Can be strong-willed
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ May be reserved with strangers
- ✗ Tendency to bark
- ✗ Requires early socialization
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Active, Enthusiastic |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily vigorous exercise including herding activities, agility training, and long walks. High-intensity activities should be combined with mental stimulation through training exercises and interactive play.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1.5-2 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active working dogs may need additional calories. Monitor weight closely as breed can be prone to weight gain if overfed.
Feed 1.5-2 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level, age, and weight. Include protein-rich foods to support high energy needs. Monitor treats to prevent weight gain.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to various settings with adequate exercise. Thrives in homes with fenced yards but can manage apartment living if given sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation.
Requires moderate indoor space but more importantly needs access to secure outdoor areas for exercise. Adapts well to various living situations provided exercise needs are met. Fenced yard highly recommended.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the French Pyrenees mountains as agile herding dogs, these shepherds worked alongside larger Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. Their compact size and quick reflexes made them ideal for maneuvering sheep through rocky terrain.
Historical Purpose
Mountain herders in the Pyrenees region of France since medieval times, these dogs expertly managed sheep flocks across challenging alpine terrain while working closely with shepherds.
Fun Fact
Known as one of the most agile herding breeds, they can turn on a dime while working at full speed!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular grooming required for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met to prevent behavioral issues.