You want to live with a dog and you think: The bigger the better?
Then we have in the following breed portrait probably found the right dog for you.
The Great Pyreneesalso Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees called. You will now find out what else you have to consider with this fur nose apart from your own musculature.
Pyrenean Mountain Dog Wanted Poster
Size Male: 70 to 82 cm, female: 65 to 74 cmWeightMale: 45 to 73 kg, Female: 39 to 52 kgColorsWhite, Tan, Grey, Badger, RedLife expectancy10 to 12 yearsOriginFrancecharacter/temperamentpatient, gentle, strong-willed, assertive, affectionate, fearless, easygoing, watchfulFCI groupGroup 2: Pinschers and Schnauzers – Molossoids – Swiss Mountain Dogs, Section 2.2: Molossoids – Mountain Dogs
Look
Much can be said about the Great Pyrenees, or Chien de Montage des Pyrénées, but not that one could overlook them.
Because this dog is undoubtedly one of them largest dog breeds in the world.
The «White Giant», as he is also called with white fur, has one muscular and compact bodythe of long legs will be carried.
The head with the always black snout is striking. He is very angular and should be at least as high as wide be.
He will from floppy ears completed. The feathery rod this dog always carries hanging down.
Coat, coat texture & coat colors
The coat of the Pyrenean mountain dog consists of two layers: one short and dense top coat and one dense undercoat.
The most common is the coat color White. But also Red, Tan, Gray and Badger are allowed according to the breed standard.
eye colors
It’s not just the size and coat that impress the Pyrenean mountain dog. Also the almond shaped eyes «have it all» and enchant us with one dark amber tone.
Height Weight
When it comes to the Pyrenean mountain dog, you have to deal with a lot – not only in terms of size, but also in terms of weight.
males reach a shoulder height of proud here 70 to 82 centimeters and can do it between 45 and 73 kilograms weigh.
Yes, female are a little smaller and lighter. But that’s relative with this breed.
Because the girls also outbid with a height of 65 to 74 centimeters and especially the weight of 39 to 52 kilograms still so many two-legged friends.
History & Origin of the Pyrenean Mountain Dog
The name might already give it away (and if not the German, then the French): The Pyrenean mountain dog or Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées comes from France.
And even more precisely: From the Pyreneesseparating the southern country from (or connecting to, depending on how you want to see it) Spain.
There the herd guard dogs are already for many centuries bred. The ancestors of this extraordinary race probably inhabited already 3,000 years ago the mountain range.
In the Middle Ages then they became the most important asset for shepherds. They not only protected the cattle, but also defended it against wolves and bears.
For this purpose they usually wore F to keep the wild attackers at a distance or to render them harmless.
In the 15th century Another task fell to them: The Defending French castles from enemy (and usually English) attacks.
The breed experienced its renaissance only in the 20th century, and the first breed standard was issued in 1923.
Of the FCI the Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées finally became year 1955 officially recognized as a separate breed.
Nature & Character of the Pyrenean Mountain Dog
You may have already stumbled across the video on the internet in which a group of kids jumps on and over a Great Pyrenees?
Then you know: This dog has a gentle nature and a patient temperament.
Yet he is extremely vigilant at all times – no matter how cozy he may appear. Originally, he was bred as a herd guard dog, i.e. to keep intruders away from his herd.
Stand up for the gentle being strong will opposite, the Pyrenean mountain dog to a assertive and fearless dog might.
He tends to act independently and make decisions on his own.
In addition, he is considered very affectionate and builds strong bonds within his family.
attitude & upbringing
We suspect that based on the information so far, you already have an inkling of what is going on in the attitude and upbringing of the Great Pyrenees comes towards you. Let’s see if your suspicions are confirmed.
attitude
As far as keeping is concerned, we would first like to state that the Pyrenean mountain dog needs space. And a lot. And spout. A lot of that too.
Keeping them in an apartment is neither sensible nor recommended. This breed needs a large (fenced) yard, even better a larger area where it can babysit a variety of animals (kids, for example).
As pure family dog this breed is simply unsuitable.
Upbringing
The Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées is not a beginner dog – and also not a dog for small and light people (unless they have Hulkian strength and muscles).
Training can also be a challenge for people who are experienced with dogs. Although the dog is willing to learn, a but he will never show absolute obedience.
Also Dog sport is nothing, which can be used to lure the Great Pyrenees out from behind the stove. He prefers to guard his flock – whether human or animal or both.
Health & Care
One robust health and a manageable care are some of the things that dog owners want for their fur nose. Let’s take a closer look at how the Pyrenean mountain dog behaves here.
Grooming & General Grooming
The The Pyrenean Mountain Dog’s coat needs to be cared for – ideally, on a regular basis once or twice a week.
General care also includes important points for the dog. That’s how they should ears, eyes, teeth and paws should also be checked once a week and cleaned if necessary.
Health
Thanks to serious breeding, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has only a low risk of suffering from hereditary diseases that can cause problems.
Like so many other medium-sized to large dogs, this breed is susceptible to the Hip dysplasia/HD.
Our tip:
Discuss these with your veterinarian right nutrition, which is especially important in puppyhood. Because overrationing can put a lasting strain on the joints that are not yet resistant.
Of course, you should take your dog to the veterinarian once a year as a matter of routine. He can then give you more tips dewormingthe Prevention of parasites and all the important ones (Refresher) vaccinations give.
Life expectancy
The Great Pyrenees has one Life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Is the Great Pyrenees right for me?
If you not a novice dog have a lot of time, you can give it a suitable task, are mentally strong and have already gained some experience with (livestock protection) dogs, the Pyrenean mountain dog is an option for you.
Over and beyond we advise against this breed if you are already underweight. Because if this furry friend isn’t brought up perfectly and doesn’t know the most important commands like «stop» and «stop», you’ll quickly have a problem.
The Great Pyrenees are happiest when they can live on a farm surrounded by lots of herding animals.
Portrait of the Great Pyrenees – Video
Fun facts about the Pyrenean mountain dog
At the end of course you still get our interesting side facts about the Pyrenean mountain dog.
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is nocturnal. He was bred to look after the flocks when the shepherds were asleep.
So don’t be surprised if your fur nose is «lazy» during the day.
The Great Pyrenees was made Royal Dog of France by King Louis XIV in 1675.
It is thanks to the Pyrenean Mountain Dog and its genes that the Saint Bernard still exists today.
During World War II, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs transported artillery from France to Spain – via the Pyrenees, of course.
Pyrenean mountain dogs should not be left alone for long. They quickly become bored and even sad.
A Great Pyrenees puppy from a reputable breeder costs around €1,200.
If you can think of more stories about the white giant with four paws, we would be happy if you share them with us in the comments 😊