Overview:  The Great Pyrenees is a serious guard dog that protects its owner from suspicious threats whether it is human or animal. While it does enjoy being around other animals, it doesn't get along well with other canines and people it doesn't know. This breed needs dedicated training and regular exercise daily. The Great Pyrenees has great resistance to the cold, however heat is its kryptonite.

Temperament:  Being very loyal, the Great Pyrenees will stay by its owner's side, especially during a threatening encounter. Usually it is quite calm when it is not provoked and appropriately behaved. Often gentle with its owner and friendly, it may try to become the leader of the relationship. If kept outside, a fenced yard is important because the Great Pyrenees tends to wander.

History:  Arriving in Europe by way of Central Asia, the Great Pyrenees was used centuries ago to guard flocks in Europe and as fortress guards in France. During the late 17th century this breed was favored of Louis XIV who decreed them as the Royal Dog of France to show his appreciation of them. The first Great Pyrenees to arrive in the United States was during the early 19th century, brought by General Lafayette. In the beginning of the 20th century, this breed was no longer in the courts of the French aristocracy. Most were found in the countryside. The popularity of this dog grew for a time in England, but later interest waned. There was a serious effort to increase the population of this breed in the United States during the 1930s. New breeding stock was imported from Europe. Today, the Great Pyrenees is used in both herding and companion roles.

Names:  The Great Pyrenees has several names: Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Chien Des Pyrenees, and Chien De Montagne Des Pyrenees.

Groups:  The Great Pyrenees was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1933 and assigned to the Working Group.

Physical Characteristics:  The average height of a Great Pyrenees adult is between 25 and 32 inches with a weight of 85 to 115 lb. The double coat of this dog resists the cold but doesn't do well in the heat. It has a long, flat, dense outer coat covering a dense wool-like undercoat. The color of the Great Pyrenees is White with gray to brown markings.

Care:  This breed does need exercise daily, but not an abundant amount, and likes it best in cold conditions. This dog can live outdoors but it is best if it lives inside with access to the outside when needs arise. Brushing the Great Pyrenees twice a week should be sufficient, unless it is shedding, as then it must be done daily.

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