The Great Pyrenees, also referred to as the Pyranean Mountain Dog, the Chien des Pyrenees, and the Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees, is a French working dog. This breed can be traced back to nearly 3000 B.C, and it is one of the oldest natural breeds in the world. Today this breed is used as guard dogs, wach dogs and family pets.
The Great Pyrenees is an impressive animal that stands between 26 and 32 inches tall and they weigh between 90 and 125 pounds. They have a long, coarse, white coat that protects them from inclimate weather. They are naturally protective of their family and distrusting of strangers and outsiders. They are usually good with kids, however, they should be properly socialized and trained before introduced to very young children.
History and Origin of the Great Pyrenees
This dog is named after a mountain chain in Europe. For many years the Great Pyrenees Dogs served the humans by protecting and defending their flocks and property against wolves, bears and other predators. Among the oldest of dog breeds, this breed has a long history of guarding sheep and protecting homes.
It is thought that the Great Pyrenees originated in Central Asia or Siberia and followed the Aryan migration into Europe. They were once beloved by French royalty and nobles while still maintaining its functionality with the peasant shepherds.
Great Pyrenees Appearance and Abilities
The is a large sized dog and is a dominant breed. Its size and ruggedness resembles a majestic white bear. The breed is a regal dog that is both powerful worker and gentle companion. When full grown, this dog is a very large animal with a solid muscular body. Male Great Pyrenees grow to between 110–120 pounds (50–54 kg) and 27–32 inches (69–81 cm), while females reach between 80–90 pounds (36–41 kg) and 25–29 inches (63–74 cm).
The Great Pyrenees is a keen worker, faithfully guarding his flocks no matter the weather or terrain. They have great intelligence and they make invaluable companions for the shepherd because of their remarkable scenting ability and excellent sight.
The breed has a wonderfully thick, weather resistant white coat that may contain markings of badger, gray, or various shades of tan. The long, coarse, outer coat is either straight or slightly wavy, while the fine undercoat is soft and thick.
Temperament and Tendencies of the Great Pyrenees
They crave human companionship. The Great Pyrenees tends to be serious and steady, rather than playful and silly. In nature, the Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle, and affectionate. While territorial and protective of its flock or family, its general demeanor is one of quiet composure, patience and tolerance.
They possess strong guardian instincts and a strong desire for a proper pack structure. The Great Pyrenees is a capable and imposing guardian, devoted to its family, and somewhat wary of strangers, both human or canine.
This breed sheds a lot. Those who cannot abide the thought of tufts of white hair floating through the house twice a year should consider another breed.
Great Pyrenees Training and Care
Great Pyrenees need affection, kindness and human companionship. One of good training methods is playing follow the leader. Encourage your puppy to stay close to you. Use lots of praise, a happy voice and reward with petting for staying close to you. Short, meaningful, and regular sessions are the key.
The main training arrangement for the Great Pyrenees puppy is leash work. The breed will thrive if you use positive reward-based training with visible patience and kindness. Socialization is critical with this breed. The most important time of all is between 8 weeks and 3 months of age. During this time it is essential that you familiarize it with other people, children and other animals, including dogs, cats and any other animals that it may encounter later in life.