Read About Great Pyrenees

Imposing in size and loyal to its family, the Great Pyrenees is a breed that makes a terrific family companion. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Great Pyrenees Summary:

1. Size:

   This breed is a large sized breed.

2. Weight:

   The average weight is 51 to 99 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The Great Pyrenees is a double coated breed.

4. Shedding:

   This breed is high shedding once per year.

5. Temperament:

   The Great Pyrenees is a moderately affectionate dog.

6. Obedience:

   This breed is moderately Obedient.

7. Ease of Training:

   It is moderately easy to train a Great Pyrenees.

8. Way with Children:

   This breed is very good with children.

Great Pyrenees - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   The Great Pyrenees is in the working group.

2. Size & Weight:

   The average dog is 25 to 32 inches tall and weighs 85 to 100 or more pounds.

3. Coat:

   The Great Pyrenees has a fine, wooly undercoat with an overcoat that is long and thick.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   This breed has a large head with a blunt muzzle and wears an expression of intelligence.

5. Body:

   Muscular through the neck with a broad back and deep chest, this breed gives the impression of strength.

6. Colors:

   White with marks of grey, badger, reddish, brown and tan are all acceptable.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10 years

8. Popularity:

   Very popular with families due to its devoted, loving and gentle disposition.

9. Habitat:

   Will not do well in an apartment; it needs a large yard. This breed enjoys a cooler climate.

Great Pyrenees - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   France

2. Historical Information:

   The 1st pair of Great Pyrenees were brought to the United States in 1824 by General Lafayette for a friend of his -- J.S. Skinner.

Great Pyrenees - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   This dog is described as confident, gentle and intelligent.

2. Behavior:

   Independent in nature, this breed can be stubborn. It has a tendancy to wander, so make sure it is leashed when not at home. This breed also is slow to mature, so you may have a puppy on your hand for the first 2 years.

3. Habits:

   These dogs drool, slobber and bark.

Great Pyrenees - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Hip dysplasia is a concern and this breed may develop /Dogs-Puppies/Dog-Health-Care/Dog-Skin-Coat/ problems in very hot weather.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Vigorous exercise is not needed, but regular exercise is.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Brush your Great Pyrenees regularly, taking extra care duing the shedding seasons. Bathe only when absolutely necessary.

4. Travel Needs:

   This pooch will need a dog seat and belt, along with plenty of food and water; make sure your dog has proper identification.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   This breed loves cats and is gentle with other non-canines; it adores children.

Great Pyrenees - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Healthy and bright eyes, energetic and a good, clean coat.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Puppy crate, training collar and leash, housebreaking materials.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As always, it is a good idea to go through your home and pick up any loose objects that could be eaten by your puppy. "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" is a good rule of thumb to follow when bringing home a Great Pyrenees.