| AKC Group: | Working |
| A.K.A.: | Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Le Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees, Pyr |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | Ancient |
| Country of Origin: | France |
| Life Span (yr): | 8 - 12 |
| Colors: | White, White with Gray, White with Tan |
| Height (Inch): | 25 - 32 |
| Weight (lb): | 85 - 100 |
| Size: | Very Large |
| Hair Length: | Long |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Great Pyrenees is a beautiful, regal looking dog. He has a wedge-shaped head. His eyes are communicative and are shaped like dark brown almonds. His ears are located level with his eyes and are small or medium sized. His jaw is strong and his nose is black in color. His coat repels water and is very thick. It is heavier around his neck and looks like he has a mane. The Great Pyrenees also has some feathering on his legs. The texture of the fur on his head, muzzle, and ears is finer than the rest of his body.
Temperament:
The Great Pyrenees is a loving breed of dog, although he can be protective of his loved ones and his home. With his protective nature comes a deep loyalty. He keeps a skeptical eye on people who he does not know and is always alert. Children and other household pets, even cats, typically do not pose a problem. He may be slightly aggressive towards other dogs, especially if they are of the same gender. Although he is an intelligent breed of dog, the Great Pyrenees is incredibly independent - almost stubborn – making his owners work hard and use plenty of patience to train him. He will bark when alarmed.
Health:
The Great Pyrenees faces of a few of disorders common to many breeds of dogs. Hip dysplasia is frequently seen. It is a painful condition that may eventually limit his mobility; however, by watching his weight, and by preventing excessive exercise its symptoms can be reduced. Patellar luxation, or a knee cap that pops out of place, is another common health issue. The Great Pyrenees may also deal with eye issues such as entropion, or a rolling of the eyelid. Skin allergies and cancers are also seen. Occasionally, gastric torsion (where the stomach twists and contorts as it fills with gas) may be an issue.
Maintenance:
The Great Pyrenees has a thick coat that may be a bit daunting to groom at first. However, if the coat is left ungroomed, it may quickly mat or knot. So, spending just a few minutes each week brushing him will drastically reduce these issues. In addition, it will limit the amount that he will shed. He should only be bathed when it is necessary. He must get some exercise, but an average length walk will usually suffice. With his heavy coat, the heat is brutal – so keep him inside during periods of extreme heat. On the other hand, he loves the cold, so when the temperature drops, it is the perfect time to take him on a longer walk.