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Species Profile

Great Pyrenees

Canis lupus familiaris

Born to Guard the Mountain Flock
Mary Swift/Shutterstock.com

Great Pyrenees Distribution

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Origin Location

This map shows the native origin of the Great Pyrenees. As a domesticated species, they are now found worldwide.

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Found in 2 countries

🇫🇷 France 🇪🇸 Spain

Size Comparison

Human 5'8"
Great Pyrenees 2 ft 4 in

Great Pyrenees stands at 42% of average human height.

Portrait of a Great Pyrenees dog outdoors with colorful autumn leaves

At a Glance

Domesticated
Also Known As Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Pyrenean, Pyr, Chien des Pyrénées, Perro de los Pirineos, Great Py
Diet Omnivore
Activity Nocturnal+
Lifespan 10 years
Weight 60 lbs
Status Not Evaluated
Did You Know?

The breed's classic white coat helped shepherds spot the dog at night and distinguish it from wolves or bears in low light.

Scientific Classification

The Great Pyrenees is a large domestic dog breed developed as a livestock guardian, historically used to protect sheep and other animals from predators in mountainous regions.

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus

Distinguishing Features

  • Very large, heavily built guardian-type dog
  • Thick, weather-resistant double coat, commonly white (sometimes with gray/tan markings)
  • Calm, independent, protective temperament typical of livestock guardian breeds
  • Often has double dewclaws on the hind legs (a noted breed trait in many standards)

Physical Measurements

Males and females differ in size

Height
♂ 2 ft 6 in (2 ft 4 in – 2 ft 8 in)
♀ 2 ft 4 in (2 ft 2 in – 2 ft 6 in)
Length
♂ 5 ft 2 in (4 ft 7 in – 5 ft 9 in)
Weight
♂ 126 lbs (110 lbs – 141 lbs)
♀ 95 lbs (84 lbs – 110 lbs)
Tail Length
♂ 1 ft 7 in (1 ft 4 in – 1 ft 10 in)
♀ 1 ft 4 in (1 ft 2 in – 1 ft 6 in)
Top Speed
25 mph

Appearance

Primary Colors
White Cream
Secondary Colors
Gray Tan Brown Black
Skin Type Skin under a dense, weather-resistant double coat: thick, harsh outer coat over a soft, warm undercoat. Skin usually dark, with a black nose and eye rims, plus feathering and a heavy ruff protecting the neck.
Distinctive Features
  • Large, white livestock-guardian dog with a thick, weather-resistant double coat; notably has distinctive double dewclaws on the hind legs.
  • Large, powerful guardian-type frame with substantial bone; built for endurance and independent decision-making while patrolling flocks (sheep/goats) in mountainous terrain.
  • Signature white (often slightly cream) double coat: long, thick, and weatherproof; pronounced neck ruff that offers protection in confrontations with predators.
  • Plumed tail carried low at rest and often 'wheel' carried (curved up) when alert; contributes to the breed's recognizable silhouette.
  • Distinctive rear double dewclaws on each hind leg are typical of the breed and historically valued in working dogs for stability on uneven terrain.
  • Head and expression: broad skull, moderate stop, dark almond-shaped eyes, and black pigmentation (nose/lips/eye rims) that contrasts with the pale coat.
  • Temperament/working behavior: calm with family/stock, vigilant and territorial; strong nighttime alerting and barking as a predator-deterrent strategy (a key functional trait of livestock guardians).
  • Compared with wild canids: less cursorial/athletic build than wolves, heavier coat, and a selected-for social role (bonding to livestock and cooperating with human management).
  • Care requirements: heavy seasonal shedding ('coat blow'); requires regular brushing (often several times weekly during heavy shed) to manage undercoat and prevent mats, plus routine ear/skin checks under dense coat.
  • Care requirements: thrives with space and secure fencing; may roam if unfenced. Needs early socialization and consistent training to channel independent guardian instincts; recall can be challenging due to breed independence.
  • Care requirements: moderate exercise needs (daily walks/patrol time) but not typically high-intensity; heat sensitivity is common due to thick coat-provide shade, water, and avoid strenuous activity in hot weather.
  • Common health concerns in large breeds: hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia; maintaining a lean body condition and appropriate growth rate in puppies can reduce orthopedic stress.
  • Common health concerns: gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat) risk in deep-chested large dogs-consider feeding management (multiple smaller meals, avoiding heavy exercise right after meals) and discuss prophylactic gastropexy with a veterinarian.
  • Common health concerns: certain cancers (e.g., osteosarcoma) occur more often in giant breeds; monitor for persistent lameness or swelling and maintain regular veterinary checks.
  • Common health concerns: eyelid/eye issues such as entropion/ectropion and other ocular irritation; dense coat around the face can also trap debris-regular inspection helps.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexual dimorphism is typical: males are noticeably larger and heavier with a more pronounced ruff and overall mass; females are slightly smaller and often finer-boned, while coat color/pattern is generally similar between sexes.

♂
  • Larger overall size, heavier bone, broader head and chest.
  • Often a more pronounced neck ruff ('mane') and more imposing guardian silhouette.
♀
  • Slightly smaller, typically lighter build while still large and powerful.
  • Often a somewhat more refined head and frame; same working-guardian coat and markings.

Did You Know?

The breed's classic white coat helped shepherds spot the dog at night and distinguish it from wolves or bears in low light.

Many Great Pyrenees have rear "double dewclaws," a breed hallmark historically valued for traction on steep, rocky terrain.

In 1675, Great Pyrenees were named the "Royal Dog of France" during the reign of Louis XIV.

Unlike many herding breeds that move livestock, Great Pyrenees were developed to live with and defend animals like sheep and goats.

They tend to patrol in wide arcs and prefer to deter threats through presence, posture, and deep warning barks rather than pursuit.

Their thick double coat sheds heavily-often in seasonal "blowouts"-as insulation needs shift with climate.

Working lines may bond strongly with non-human "charges" (sheep, goats, poultry) and can be gentle babysitters to young stock.

Unique Adaptations

  • Guardian temperament shaped by selection: low prey-drive toward "their" animals, high territorial awareness, and confidence under pressure-distinct from the base species' wild hunting priorities.
  • Weather-ready double coat: dense undercoat plus longer outer coat provides insulation against cold, wind, and snow typical of highland climates.
  • Large frame and deep chest: supports endurance patrols and imposing presence that discourages predators.
  • Rear double dewclaws (common in the breed): additional contact points that may aid stability on uneven ground; also a traditional breed identifier.
  • Efficient threat management: tendency to conserve energy-observe, warn, and posture first-rather than sprinting after every stimulus.
  • Strong bonding to home range: highly place-oriented, aligning with the historical need to guard a fixed grazing area for long periods.

Interesting Behaviors

  • Night watchfulness: often more active after dusk, when predators are historically most likely to approach.
  • Perimeter patrol: repeatedly walks boundaries, revisiting scent marks and vantage points to monitor the territory.
  • "Stand-and-stare" deterrence: squares up, holds eye contact, and uses body blocking to move threats away without chasing.
  • Selective barking: deep, booming alarm barks to announce presence and discourage approach; may escalate if the threat persists.
  • Livestock bonding: may rest among animals, position itself between flock and perceived danger, and respond to distress noises.
  • Independent decision-making: evaluates situations without constant handler cues-useful for remote flock protection, challenging for novice owners.
  • Gentle-mouthed interactions: many show careful, controlled movement around lambs/kids and can be notably tolerant of young animals.

Cultural Significance

The Great Pyrenees (Canis lupus familiaris) grew up with shepherds in the Pyrenees Mountains, guarding flocks from wolves and bears. Called the "Royal Dog of France" in the 17th century, it still helps protect livestock worldwide.

Myths & Legends

Pyrenean shepherd tradition tells of great white mountain dogs as near-mythic night sentinels-ghostly pale figures on ridgelines whose booming barks were said to turn wolves away before they reached the flock.

A long-told historical anecdote in France recounts Great Pyrenees serving as prized guardians for estates and nobility after their abilities impressed visitors from the mountains, helping fuel their courtly reputation as "Royal Dogs."

In rural Pyrenees lore, the dogs' white coats are sometimes described as a protective "snow-cloak," blending with the mountains so predators see only a sudden, looming guardian when it rises from among the sheep.

Naming stories link the Great Pyrenees (Canis lupus familiaris) to the Pyrenees mountains: dogs born of high passes, shaped by cold winds and steep slopes, always guarding flocks and livestock.

Conservation Status

NE Not Evaluated

Has not yet been evaluated against the criteria.

Population Stable

Life Cycle

Birth 8 pups
Lifespan 10 years

Lifespan

In the Wild
8–12 years
In Captivity
8–12 years

Reproduction

Mating System Polygynandry
Social Structure Managed Domestic
Breeding Pattern Transient
Fertilization Managed Selective
Birth Type Managed_selective

Behavior & Ecology

Social Pack Group: 3
Activity Nocturnal, Crepuscular, Cathemeral
Diet Omnivore Meat-forward meals (e.g., lamb or chicken) with moderate fat; many Great Pyrenees do best with large-breed formulas that support joints and lean mass.

Temperament

Livestock-guardian profile: calm, steady, and highly protective; responds strongly to perceived threats with boundary-setting rather than chase-driven predation.
Independent and self-directed (breed-selected): more likely to make autonomous decisions than many companion breeds; can appear stubborn and benefits from patient, consistent training.
Aloof with strangers; bonded and gentle with family/known animals. Early socialization is important to reduce inappropriate suspicion while preserving stable guarding behavior.
Territorial and perimeter-oriented; may roam or patrol if not securely contained. Reliable fencing and recall-proof management are common requirements.
HUBS variation: some lines/individuals are more demonstrative and social; others are more reserved and intensely guardian-focused, especially in rural working contexts.
Care requirements (behavior-linked): needs daily low-impact exercise and mental outlets (patrol walks, supervised yard time) more than high-speed repetitive work; poor fit for frequent off-leash public settings due to guarding responses.
Health concerns (breed-relevant management): predisposition to gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), hip/elbow dysplasia and orthopedic strain (manage growth/weight), and hot spots/skin issues from dense coat; behavioral note-discomfort/pain can increase irritability or guarding intensity.

Communication

Deep, booming alarm bark Primary deterrent signal; often frequent at night
Short warning barks that escalate with proximity/novelty of the stimulus
Low growl/rumble as a distance-increasing signal when a boundary is challenged
Whines/soft grumbles with family or when seeking access/attention
Occasional howl Less typical than sustained barking in this breed's guarding role
Perimeter patrolling and strategic positioning Placing body between flock/family and a perceived threat
Scent marking and re-marking boundaries; investigation of novel scents as threat assessment
Staring, stillness, and forward posture as early-stage warnings before vocal escalation
Blocking/shouldering and 'escorting' strangers away from protected space rather than immediate biting when well-managed
Use of elevated vantage points (porch, hill, gate line) to monitor territory-common across HUBS with variation by housing/farm layout

Habitat

Mountain Alpine Meadow Grassland Steppe Shrubland Woodland Deciduous Forest Coniferous Forest Tundra Desert Agricultural/Farmland Suburban Urban +7
Biomes:
Alpine Temperate Grassland Temperate Forest Boreal Forest (Taiga) Tundra Mediterranean Desert Hot Desert Cold Savanna +3
Terrain:
Mountainous Hilly Plateau Valley Plains Riverine
Elevation: Up to 13123 ft 4 in

Ecological Role

Human-associated domestic omnivore; primarily a livestock guardian rather than an active predator, functioning as a protective deterrent in pastoral ecosystems.

Reduces livestock losses by deterring wild predators (non-lethal predator management) Can reduce human-wildlife conflict and retaliatory killing of predators when used effectively Scavenging of small carrion/food waste in free-roaming contexts (minor nutrient recycling) Companion/working role supporting pastoral livelihoods

Diet Details

Main Prey:
Small mammals Ground-nesting birds and eggs Carrion Dog food
Other Foods:
Grasses and plant matter Fruits and berries Vegetables Grains and legumes

Human Interaction

Domestication Status

Domesticated

The Great Pyrenees (Canis lupus familiaris) is a dog breed bred as a livestock guardian in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. It was selected for independence, watchfulness, weather resistance, and to deter wolves and bears. Compared with other domestic dogs, it is larger, has a very dense double coat, strong territorial and watchful behavior, and more independent decisions.

Danger Level

Moderate
  • Protective/territorial aggression risk if poorly socialized or if guarding instincts are triggered (especially on property, around fences, or when approached at night).
  • Bite risk increases when startled, handled roughly, or if a stranger challenges perceived territory (mail carriers, visitors, hikers near home).
  • Size/strength-related accidental injury risk (knocking down children/elderly, leash pulling).
  • Lower overall predatory drive toward humans than many breeds, but can be dog-selective or reactive to unfamiliar dogs, escalating conflict in public spaces.

As a Pet

Suitable as Pet

Legality: Great Pyrenees are usually legal to keep as pets in most places but may need a leash, license, follow noise rules, homeowner or landlord rules, and general dangerous-dog laws. Always check local rules.

Care Level: Experienced

Purchase Cost: $500 - $2,500
Lifetime Cost: $18,000 - $45,000

Economic Value

Uses:
Companion animal market Working livestock guardian services Breeding (registered purebred) Farm/ranch predator deterrence Canine sports and exhibition (conformation, draft/carting where available)
Products:
  • sale/adoption of puppies and adults
  • guardian dog labor value (reduced livestock losses)
  • stud services and breeding rights (where practiced)
  • training/handling services for LGD placement and integration
  • veterinary, grooming, boarding, and pet supply spending driven by ownership

Relationships

Predators 6

Gray Wolf
Gray Wolf Canis lupus
Coyote
Coyote Canis latrans
Cougar
Cougar Puma concolor
Brown Bear
Brown Bear Ursus arctos
American black bear
American black bear Ursus americanus
Human
Human Homo sapiens

Related Species 7

Gray Wolf
Gray Wolf Canis lupus Shared Species
Domestic Dog
Domestic Dog Canis lupus familiaris Shared Species
Coyote
Coyote Canis latrans Shared Genus
Golden Jackal
Golden Jackal Canis aureus Shared Genus
African Golden Wolf Canis lupaster Shared Genus
Red Fox
Red Fox Vulpes vulpes Shared Family
Dhole
Dhole Cuon alpinus Shared Family

Ecological Equivalents 5

Animals that fill a similar ecological role in their ecosystem

Maremma Sheepdog
Maremma Sheepdog Canis lupus familiaris Same niche as a livestock guardian dog. Like the Great Pyrenees, it is calm around farm animals, patrols fences, and deters predators rather than chasing them. It needs early exposure to stock and people, is cold-tolerant, but can develop hip and elbow dysplasia and bloat.
Kuvasz
Kuvasz Canis lupus familiaris Both breeds guard livestock, are independent and protective, bark frequently, and require consistent training. They share risks for hip dysplasia and GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus, bloat). The Kuvasz is more active and has a lighter coat.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Pyrenean Mastiff Canis lupus familiaris Similar mountain livestock guardian: large, slow to mature, bred to stay with herds and confront predators. Requires heavy seasonal-shedding care, caution in hot weather, gentle exercise to protect developing joints, risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), and consistent training including firm boundaries, control of nighttime barking, and thorough socialization.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Anatolian Shepherd Dog Canis lupus familiaris Both are livestock guardian dogs that help keep predators away from sheep and goats in open or rugged areas. Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are suited to hot climates and large ranges; Great Pyrenees prefer cold climates, have heavy coats, and stand their ground.
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff Canis lupus familiaris Like Great Pyrenees and other high-altitude property and livestock guardians, Tibetan Mastiffs have strong territorial instincts, may bark at night, act independently, require early socialization and training, need secure fencing, require careful exercise while growing, should be monitored for joint problems, and need heat management.

They are likely descendants of guardian dogs that were in Asia Minor around 10,000 B.C. Around the year 3,000 B.C., nomadic shepherds went to the Pyrenees mountains and brought their guarding dogs with them. This was likely the beginning of the Great Pyrenees breed.

Great Pyrenees are very large white dogs. Since they were bred to watch over flocks of sheep, they can be quite protective of their family members. When strangers aren’t around, these dogs can be very affectionate and playful with the people they love. They have a calm and patient temperament and can make great family dogs. Because of their large size, it is important to make sure these dogs have plenty of space to run and play.

History of the Great Pyrenees

This majestic breed has ancestors whose fossils have been dated more than 3,800 years old! This ancient relative of the Pyrenees was native to Asia, but gradually, with the expansion of the Roman Empire, made its way to the region from which it would acquire its name: the Pyrenees Mountains, which border France and Spain.

During the reign of the French monarch King Louis XIV, the Pyrenees were appointed as the Royal Dog of France after proving themselves to be welcome additions to the ranks of the Royal Guard. Hereafter, the breed became exceedingly popular in the kingdom and surrounding territories throughout the 1800s.

As time went on, the popularity of the Pyrenees in its namesake region steadily declined to the point of near extinction in the early 1900s. One French aristocrat by the name of Bernard Senac-Lagrange was determined to change this, collecting the most respectable examples of the dog from the French mountainside and officially registering the Pyrenees as a recognized breed, as well as taking further conservational efforts, which led to the Pyrenees once again experiencing a resurgence in interest.

In the 1930s, the first Pyrenees made their way to the shores of North America, where they soon earned their title of “Great.” The breed was accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1935 under its newly christened name, where it quickly became a major competitor in dog shows and pageants. 

Owning a Great Pyrenees: 3 Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Great family dog: The Great Pyrenees makes an excellent family dog. They are affectionate and friendly with the people they love. They can also be very gentle and patient with children.Barks a lot: Great Pyrenees can be very territorial and will bark quite loudly at strangers.
Only needs moderate exercise: A Great Pyrenees’ exercise requirements are quite manageable for most people. They will do fine with daily walks and some playtime in a fenced-in yard.Destructive: Puppies will chew on anything they can find. This breed can also be destructive if they are left home alone out of their crate.
Devoted: Great Pyrenees are very devoted and loyal to their family members.Heavy shedders: Great Pyrenees have thick and long hair, and they shed quite often. Be prepared to have dog hair all over your home.
Great Pyrenees at the seaside

This Great Pyrenees is getting in its daily exercise at the seaside.

©everydoghasastory/Shutterstock.com

Size and Weight

This is a large breed of dog. Males are a little larger than females in this breed. Great Pyrenees are typically between 27 and 32 inches tall and weigh between 100 and 120 pounds or more. Females generally stand between 25 and 29 inches tall and weigh between 85 and 100 pounds or more. Three-month-old puppies weigh between 29 and 40 pounds. When they are six months old, puppies will typically weigh between 54 and 74 pounds. These dogs will be fully grown when they are 19 months old.

Great Pyrenees or Pyrenean mountain dog, 1 year old, sitting in front of white background

The Great Pyrenees is one of the tallest dog breeds alive today, with an average standing height between 27 and 32 inches.

©Eric Isselee/Shutterstock.com

Types of Colors

The Great Pyrenees’ distinguished white coat can come in 5 different variations:

  • Solid White: This is the most popular and recognizable color for the breed.
  • Tan: This variation features subtle cream-colored patches intermingled with the standard white fur.
  • Badger: These Pyrenees usually have two distinct blotches of brown on both sides of their head, and sometimes large spots on the end of their tails.
  • Gray: Gray Great Pyrenees look similar to the badger type, but with a gray pattern instead of brown that manifests less consistently in its distribution.
  • Reddish Brown: This type has a rust-colored pattern that resembles the gray and badger Pyrenees.

Common Health Issues

Before you bring home one of these dogs, there are a few common health issues that impact this breed you should be aware of. While not all of them will experience these issues, knowing about them can help you prepare to provide the best level of care for your dog.

As a large dog breed, the Great Pyrenees can suffer from Gastric Torsion, more commonly known as bloat. The stomach of a dog suffering from bloat becomes distended and then twists. This prevents the dog from being able to get rid of the excess air in its stomach by burping or vomiting. Bloat can be life-threatening, and you should rush your dog to the vet right away if they exhibit any signs of it. Feeding smaller meals throughout the day and limiting your dog’s exercise after eating can help prevent bloat.

Another potential health issue for these dogs is hip dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where a dog’s thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the joint at the hip. It causes the two bones to rub against one another, which can be quite painful and can cause a dog to limp. Since this is an inherited condition, you should check the health history of the parents before buying a Great Pyrenees from a breeder.

These dogs can also suffer from Addison’s Disease. Also called hypoadrenocorticism, this condition occurs when a dog’s adrenal gland isn’t able to make enough adrenal hormones. Adrenal hormones control the level of potassium and salt in the body. Signs of this condition may include loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, or, in some cases, heart arrhythmia. Vets can treat Addison’s disease with corticosteroids or fludrocortisone acetate.

Tallest Dogs: Great Pyrenees

When caring for a Great Pyrenees, it is important to monitor for a plethora of potential health issues.

©iStock.com/creativex

Temperament and Behavior

The Great Pyrenees has a very affectionate and patient personality. They are also very calm and intelligent. These traits make the Great Pyrenees a great family dog. They can exhibit playful behaviors, making them a good companion for a child. These dogs will do best with young children when they are socialized from an early age and have opportunities to interact with children.

Because they were bred to be mountain dogs to watch over sheep, Great Pyrenees do bark quite a bit. They will bark loudly to alert their owners if a stranger is nearby. Great Pyrenees can also be destructive if left alone; it is important to crate train your dog.

Great Pyrenees dog outdoor portrait against sky

Great Pyrenees are well known for their calm demeanor in spite of their intimidating size.

©everydoghasastory/Shutterstock.com

How to Take Care of a Great Pyrenees

As you prepare to take care of your Great Pyrenees, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind. These dogs have unique health concerns, training needs, nutritional needs, temperament, and more, making caring for this dog breed different from caring for other breeds.

Running Great Pyrenees puppy

Socialization is important for Pyrenees pups. Their protective nature means they need to get used to meeting new people early on.

©DTeibe Photography/Shutterstock.com

The Best Dog Food for Great Pyrenees

When choosing food for your dog, always select high-quality options from trusted manufacturers. Since Great Pyrenees are susceptible to bloat, you will want to avoid feeding them a large meal and then having them exercise a lot. Rather, choose to feed your dog multiple smaller meals each day and give your dog some time to digest before giving them exercise. This will help reduce the chance of them suffering from bloat.

Compared to other large breeds of dogs, the Great Pyrenees typically eats less food due to its slower metabolism. However, they need to get enough omega-3 and omega-6, so be sure to look for foods that are high in these healthy fats.

Puppies have smaller stomachs than their adult counterparts. It will be important to feed them even more frequently throughout the day. Each meal should be relatively small. As the puppies get older, you can slowly reduce the number of times you feed them and increase the amount of food they receive with each meal.

Maintenance and Grooming

great pyrenees laying in a field

The Great Pyrenees has dense, layered fur that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

©Ingrid Curry/Shutterstock.com

Great Pyrenees have long and thick white fur. They will shed a lot of fur from their undercoat during the spring. Brushing your dog with a slicker brush or a pin brush once a week, or even more frequently, can help limit the amount of hair that they’ll shed.

In addition to regular brushing, it will also be important to brush your dog’s teeth a few times a week to reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar. Trim the nails regularly to keep them from getting too long. If their nails become too long, it can become painful for them to walk.

Training

Great Pyrenees can be a little challenging to train. They were bred to be very independent and don’t always follow commands immediately. The Great Pyrenees will do best with experienced dog owners who know how to train a dog. You can also consider enrolling your dog in an obedience training class.

Positive reinforcement training methods work best for the Great Pyrenees. If Great Pyrenees don’t get proper training, they can become uncontrollable. A 100+ pound dog that does not know how to behave can be a real problem.

Exercise

A Great Pyrenees is not an overly active dog, but it will still need moderate exercise. They were bred to be mountain dogs to protect livestock. While they will patrol the area they are protecting, they do not exert a great deal of energy, unless there is a threat they need to fend off. Daily walks to time to run around in a fenced-in backyard can meet the exercise requirements for this breed. Great Pyrenees also do well participating in obedience trials or cart-pulling activities.

Puppies

If you are thinking of bringing a Great Pyrenees puppy home, you should first confirm that your home and lifestyle will be conducive to this dog breed’s needs. Great Pyrenees will grow to be very large dogs, so they will need a large space where they’ll be able to run around. They do well in farms, ranches, or homes with large fenced-in yards.

Shortly after bringing your puppy home, you should begin to crate train him or her. Crate training can help the Great Pyrenees find a quiet place to rest and will also help with your potty-training efforts. Great Pyrenees can be destructive if left to roam around alone, so you’ll want to get them used to going in their crate.

Great Pyrenees puppy

The Pyrenees pup above may be small now, but within a few months, it will grow to be up to 100 lbs.

©iStock.com/ktatarka

Great Pyrenees And Children

The Great Pyrenees is an excellent dog breed for a family with young children. These dogs are affectionate, patient, and playful. Especially when they are exposed to children from a young age, a Great Pyrenees can make an excellent companion and playmate for a child.

As with other dog breeds, it is always important to closely supervise children when they are around a Great Pyrenees. This will avoid accidental injury. Toddlers and babies should be very closely supervised due to the large size of the Great Pyrenees.

The Great Pyrenees may act like a guardian for a child. They can quickly become quite protective of their owners. You will want to make sure your dog is properly trained and socialized to prevent them from acting too aggressively toward strangers.

While your puppy may be quite small, depending on how early you adopt him, be ready for him to grow quickly. Adult dogs can reach 120 pounds. Your puppy will also need plenty of exercise, so be sure to take him for walks, play with him, or let him out in a fenced-in yard to play.

Great Pyrenees laying in front of tree with white buds

The Great Pyrenees is a wonderful breed for active people who enjoy playing with their pets.

©iStock.com/JZHunt

Similar Breeds

Three dog breeds that are similar to these dogs are Samoyeds, Irish Wolfhounds, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

  • Samoyed: Samoyeds have a dense white coat like the Great Pyrenees. Both dogs also shed quite a lot. They are also both known to be very territorial. Samoyeds were bred to be sled dogs, while Great Pyrenees were bred to be herding dogs. Samoyeds are also significantly smaller than the Great Pyrenees. The average weight of a male Samoyed is about 55 pounds, while male Great Pyrenees weigh 100 pounds or more.
  • Irish Wolfhound: Irish Wolfhounds and Great Pyrenees are both very large dogs. While an Irish wolfhound is larger than a Great Pyrenees, both weigh over 100 pounds. A big difference between these two breeds is that the Great Pyrenees has a much higher tendency to bark than the Irish Wolfhound.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog: Bernese Mountain Dogs are another very large dog breed. They can be nearly as large as a Great Pyrenees with an average weight of just under 100 pounds. Great Pyrenees are all white, while Bernese Mountain Dogs are black, white, and rust-colored. Both dogs are territorial and can make a great watchdog.
Irish wolfhound standing outside, looking up

The Irish Wolfhound is an excellent alternative choice when considering adopting a Pyrenees.

©iStock.com/Ashva

Famous Examples

Over the years, there have been some famous Great Pyrenees. Here are a few:

  • Muffin was Elvis Presley’s Great Pyrenees.
  • A Great Pyrenees dog was in the movie Santa Buddies from the Air Buddies series.
  • A Great Pyrenees was featured in the TV show Belle et Sébastien in the 1960s.

View all 261 animals that start with G

Sources

  1. American Kennel Club / Accessed November 28, 2020
  2. Petfinder / Accessed November 28, 2020
  3. Dog Breed Info / Accessed November 28, 2020
  4. Love To Know / Accessed November 28, 2020
Corinna Cybele

About the Author

Corinna Cybele

My name is Corinna! In my profile photo you can see me with one of my two cats, Bisky! The other's name is Yma and she's a beautiful black Bombay kitty. I'm 24 years old and I live in Birmingham, AL with my partner Anastasia and like to spend my free time making music, collecting records and reading. Some other animals I've owned were a hamster, 2 chihuahuas and many different kinds of fish.

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Great Pyrenees FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Buying a Great Pyrenees from a shelter costs about $600 on average. However, the price could range from $1,400 to $5,000 for a show-quality dog. If you adopt a Great Pyrenees from a shelter or rescue organization, it will likely cost a few hundred dollars to cover vaccinations and the adoption fee.

In addition to the price you will pay to adopt a Great Pyrenees, you will also want to be prepared for all the additional costs of dog ownership. Your Great Pyrenees will need medical care, training, food, toys, a collar and leash, a crate, dog beds, and many other supplies. Your first year owning the dog will likely be the most expensive since you will need to purchase all of the supplies your dog will need. You should expect to spend at least $1,000 that first year, but it could possibly be more. Each year after that, you should budget between $500 and $1,000 to cover veterinarian expenses, food, and anything else that your dog may need.

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