For hundreds of years, shepherds used this breed to guard their sheep in the mountains of France. Today, these loyal dogs stand watch over their families.
This robust breed is known for its imposing stature, booming bark and thick mane, but don’t let their size scare you away. They may look like bears, but Great Pyrenees are the ultimate family companion.
Bred to guard sheep from wolves in the Pyrenees Mountains, today these gentle giants intuitively protect and love small animals and children. But before becoming one of the most popular breeds in America in the early 2000s, Great Pyrenees dogs were a prized choice for French nobility in the 1600s. As the noble guardians of many royal chateaux, Great Pyrenees were both loving companions and status symbols. In fact, in 1675, the king named this gentle, confident, and endlessly devoted breed the royal dog of France.
Why We Love the Great Pyrenee Breed
- Great Pyrenees are laid-back and even tempered, perfect for families and for cuddling. Just keep in mind that while they enjoy relaxing, they must be exercised on a daily basis to maintain good health.
- Their large size and deep bark will scare away intruders, making Great Pyrenees excellent guard dogs.
- These pups have beautiful white manes which are sure to attract many admirers.
- Great Pyrenees Dogs make perfect pets for families with children.
Things to Consider
- This breed is a seasonal shedder. Great Pyrenees need daily brushing during shedding season and semiweekly grooming throughout the rest of the year.
- This bold breed has a mind of its own and is stubborn when it comes to training. Due to their size, these dogs are best for experienced owners who can provide firm training and confident leadership.
- Great Pyrenees are naturally nocturnal when left outdoors, and may bark and pace if left out at night. However, the Great Pyrenees will sleep through the night if kept indoors.
- While generally friendly and affectionate, this breed’s natural instinct to protect can make it wary of strangers. Due to its size and independence, it is very important to socialize your Great Pyrenees regularly from a young age.
Why Rescue?
Their gentle temperaments and gorgeous looks make Great Pyrenees a popular choice for dog owners. However, while well-loved breed’s popularity means that Great Pyrenees can be subject to overbreeding. This can lead to health issues such as hip dysplasia, heart problems and bone cancer. If you are thinking about bringing a Great Pyrenees puppy or adult into your family, consider adopting a rescue dog.
