Great Pyrenees FAQ
What is a "Great Pyrenees"?
Great Pyrenees are a very large breed of 100+ pounds. Color varies from pure white to white with brown, gray or
badger markings. Eyes and nose pigment should be very dark. These giants are known for their natural kindness to
their "herd" while still being great guardians. This combination of gentleness and strength added to
their unmatched beauty makes one of the best breeds available for working dogs, pets and/or show dogs.
Do I need a fenced yard?
This is a roaming breed so a fenced yard is most necessary. Your neighbors won't appreciate your dog in their yard
when it makes its rounds. Also for obvious safety reasons: vehicle traffic etc., a fence is mandatory.
Do Pyrs make good therapy dogs?
The temperament of calmness, gentleness, patience and intelligence combine to bring comfort to those in need. There
are endless opportunities for these dogs and their owners to find real happiness in giving to others. The studies
show that when animals are used with people who have physical or emotional pain, there are actual, measurable,
improvements physically, and a reaching out for the peace and love they bring. There is an immediate connection
made between the dogs and children and when adults are involved the hesitancy felt at first soon gives way as they
feel the peace and gentleness of the dog. The dogs bring smiles to the faces of the institutionalized and lonely.
They help improve the quality of life for those in need.
Are they good livestock guardian dogs?
The temperament of the Great Pyrenees is ideally suited to the work of LGD's. They do not have a "rush to
judgement"attitude when danger threatens. To do their work they do not have to be "aggressive" but
they do have to be stable and self-confident. Temperament is as important to the LGD as it is to the city dweller.
Great Pyrenees needs to be confident in their relations to man and to predator. If they are stable they will not
see everything as a threat but will assess the situation and devise an appropriate plan for protection. If they
are frightened of humans, they tend to run inside the herd and back away. The owners must run them into sheep pens
or tranquilize them in order for shots or medical aid to be given. The Pyr that is confident in his ability to
deal with man and beast can be approached and handled and given medical treatment when needed. "Gimlet's"
littermate is a livestock guardian dog along with a champion! This shows the versatility of the Great Pyrenees.
Do they shed?
Great Pyrenees are a heavily coated breed and they do shed. A thorough brushing once a week will help with the
problem of hair all over the house, but when a Pyr "blows" coat look out. Once your pet is spayed or
neutered there tends to be less fur around - but more on the dog which requires a more regular grooming schedule.
If hair around the house bothers you, then a Pyr is not for you.
Do they need a lot of room?
Pyrs are a large dog and need space - both indoors and out. They are also guard dogs and they bark to protect their
domain. Although they have a low metabolism, Pyrs do need regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Long walks
and a large play area are both highly recommended.
Can I afford a Great Pyrenees?
There is a wide range of prices for Great Pyrenees across the country. However, the initial purchase price is only
the beginning of the expenses for a dog. Pyrs are large and fast growing till they reach maturity. Can you afford
to feed a high quality food in large quantities? There are also the expenses of veterinary bills, shots, grooming
supplies, etc. All this must be taken into account before purchasing your puppy.
What is better - male or female?
This is a personal choice. The male is larger, showier and inclined to be more boisterous. The bitch is usually
more maternal, somewhat smaller and much more inclined to be a homebody. My experience - and this is my opinion
only - is that the females tend to be more affectionate and "in your lap" while you will find the males
off sleeping somewhere. In my house, the females tend to do most of the "guarding" work while the males
just watch and react only when they absolutely have to.
Can I "tie" my dog out in the backyard?
Don't chain a dog outside for extended periods. It promotes viciousness, suspicion of what is beyond his reach
and susceptibility to being teased or frustrated. It can also be dangerous because the dog may wrap himself in
the chain, or even hang himself. Particularly, never allow your dog to wear a choke collar unattended. A roaming
Pyr can catch a choke collar on a root or bush and eventually the dog could die of strangulation. A choke collar
should be regarded as a training or show collar only.
Should I shave my Pyr in the summer?
Never clip a Pyrenees in the summer. The world's most beautiful dog requires a minimum of grooming care to stay
beautiful. The coat provides an insulation and can actually help keep the dog cool in the summer heat. A Pyr's
skin is very fair and therefore sensitive to the sun and if the coat is gone there will be nothing to protect it.
