Great Pyredane History
The Great Pyrenees is an exceptionally hardy, intelligent, and loyal livestock guardian that is often used to protect sheep and goats from predators. The origin of the Great Pyrenees is very much in dispute, with several different theories put forward to explain both its ancestry and its place of origin. It has long been believed that the ancient Romans brought the first Great Pyrenees to Spain, and indeed many modern Spanish breeders still claim that the Great Pyrenees’ origins are Spanish in origin. Historians, however, believe that the Great Pyrenees originated in Europe many thousands of years before the Romans, and that it originated in the mountainous region of what is now Slovenia.
Great Pyredane Physical Characteristics
The Great Pyrenees is a very large, medium-to-large-sized breed of domestic sheepdog. They have a large, solidly-built, thickly-furred, and well-proportioned body. They range in height from 25 to 32 inches (64 to 81 cm) and weigh between 70 and 110 pounds (31 to 50 kg). They have a thick, white, double coat. They have a distinctive beard and mustache that hangs down over their upper lip. Their face is wedge-shaped and their nose is black. They have large, wide-set, almond-shaped eyes. Their ears are V-shaped and set high on the back of their head. They have a deep, broad chest. Their tail is thick at the base and tapers to a point. Their feet are webbed and webbed hind toes allow them to swim. They are intelligent, independent, courageous, protective, and stubborn.
Eye Colors
Blue, Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Coat Colors
Black, White, Blue, Brindle, Fawn
Height Range
Male Height Range: 29 – 33 inches
Female Height Range: 27 – 31 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 95 – 120 lbs
Female Weight Range: 80 – 105 lbs
Great Pyredane Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
8-12 yrs
Great Pyredane Health Concerns
Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Heart Diseases and Disorders, Osteosarcoma, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Wobbler’s Syndrome
Great Pyredane Temperament and Behaviour
The Great Pyrenees is an intelligent and friendly breed that is wonderful for families. They are calm, gentle, and patient with children, and they are protective of their family. They are playful and like to run, but they are also willing to lay around and relax with the family.
Great Pyredane Activity Requirements
The Great Pyrenees is a large, fluffy, white dog that originated in the Pyrenees Mountains. They are primarily guard dogs and are often used as livestock guardians. While they are not as high-energy as other large breeds, they do require a lot of exercise and space. They need a large fenced yard where they can run around and roam free. They do not do well in backyards that are too small or in homes without access to outdoor space. If you are considering a Great Pyrenees, be sure you have adequate time and space for their exercise and roaming. This is not a dog that can be cooped up in a back or front yard. They require a lot of space and room to run.
Miles Per Day
9 miles
Activity Per Day
60 minutes
Daily Food
4 cups
Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Great Pyredane is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Great Pyredane is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
Great Pyredane is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
Great Pyredane is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.