Great Pyrenees
Description
The Great Pyrenees
is considered a relative of the St. Bernard and the Newfoundland.
History sees this dog dating back as far as 1800 BC; however it is
thought that the breed probably originated much earlier in Asia or
Siberia. As the breed gradually gained popularity with the French
nobility as a guard dog in the late 17th century, every French noble
wanted to own one where it was used to protect vulnerable flocks from
such predators as wolves and bears. Born to live in the mountains, this
versatile breed also served man in other ways such as an avalanche
rescue dog, a cart-puller and sled dog, a pack dog on ski trips, and as
a companion and defender of family and property.
Temperament
The Great Pyrenees
is highly devoted to its family and is capable of being an imposing
guardian but somewhat wary of strangers - human or canine. Courageous,
very loyal and obedient, this gentle dog is very affectionate with those
he loves and children if it has been raised with them. When not
provoked, they are calm, well- mannered, and somewhat serious, but do
have somewhat of an independent nature and can become stubborn and
territorial if not socialized and trained correctly.
These dogs need to have
adequate dog training to ensure a happy household.
Generally good
with non-canine animals, they usually like cats. These dogs do not reach
maturity until they are about 2 years old. Some Pyrenees are not good
off the leash and may wander away. These dogs tend to bark a lot, drool
and slobber.
Appearance
Height: 63-81cm
(25-32in)
Weight: 38-45kg
(83-100lb)
The Great Pyrenees
is very large with a solid muscular body. It has a weather resistant
outer coat which is long, coarse, either straight or slightly wavy and a
fine undercoat that is soft and thick. The colours of their coat come
in solid white, or white with patches of tan, wolf-gray or pale yellow.
A distinctive feature is the double dewclaws on their front and hind
legs and their long, feathered, plumed tail which curves slightly upward
at the tip.
Grooming
To keep their long
double coat, which does not mat when in good condition, regular brushing
is recommended however, extra care will be required when this dog has
its annual shedding of its dense undercoat. Only bath or dry shampoo
these dogs when necessary.
If you don't have the
time to bath or groom your dog, your local dog grooming
parlour provides these services.
Life Expectancy
10 Years
Health Concerns
These dogs are
prone to hip dysplasia and if exposed to very hot weather can develop
debilitating skin problems. Also
always try to feed
quality dog food to ensure a healthy happy dog.
Suitability
The Pyrenees
are not
recommended for apartment life and as they are not active indoors, they
need space to get regular exercise outdoors or in a mid-to-large sized
yard. Preferring the cooler climates and being able to adapt well to
family life, they love to be taken for long walks with their owner so
they can get the exercise they require to stay in shape.
Great Pyrenees -
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