Dog Breed Diaries

Your Diary of Dog Breeds, Traits, and Tales.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

Livestock Guardian Dog, Giant White Dog, Gentle Giant, Great Pyrenees Puppy, Protective Family Dog

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic and gentle giant, renowned for its calm temperament, thick white coat, and unwavering devotion to family and flock.

Know your Great Pyrenees

Breed Group: Working

Size: Giant

Height: 25-32 inches

Weight: 85-160 pounds

Coat Type: Thick, weather-resistant double coat. Requires regular brushing to manage shedding and prevent mats.

Coat Colors: Primarily solid white, though some may have gray, tan, or badger markings around the face and ears.

Temperament: Calm, Affectionate, Watchful. Naturally protective and patient with children, making it an excellent family companion and livestock guardian.

Energy Level: Moderate. Enjoys daily walks and light play, but happiest when given a job or purpose.

Good with Children: Yes

Good with Other Pets: Yes

Trainability: Moderate. Intelligent and independent—training requires patience and consistency. Early socialization is essential.

Barking Tendency: High. This breed is vocal and uses barking to alert and guard. It’s part of their natural protective instinct.

Lifespan: 10-12 years

Health Issues: Prone to Hip Dysplasia, Bloat (gastric torsion), and Heart Conditions. Regular vet checkups and controlled feeding can help mitigate risks.

Exercise Requirements: Moderate; prefers daily strolls, time in large fenced yards, and light guardian activities. Not suited to intense agility or confined urban life.

Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Great Pyrenees hails from the mountainous regions of France and Spain, where it was developed to guard flocks of sheep against predators. Revered for centuries, it served nobility and farmers alike as a steadfast protector. Today, its noble appearance and devoted nature make it a beloved family dog as well as a working breed.