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When we were told we could adopt our adorable little fluff ball for $350, I did ALL the research I could about the breed. I have posted about the breed itself before, but there were many characteristics that turned me on to the great pyrenees that other large breed dogs did not possess. I found out the following things that intrigued me about this breed that makes them different from other large breeds.
Size —
Great Pyrenees dogs are one of the largest breeds of dogs in the world. They can grow up to 32 inches tall and weigh up to 120 pounds. This size makes them stand out from other large breed dogs, such as the German Shepherd or the Rottweiler. Their size is part of what makes them excellent livestock guardians, as they can intimidate potential predators.
Temperament —
Great Pyrenees dogs have a calm and gentle temperament, which sets them apart from other large breed dogs. They are known for being protective of their families and livestock, and can be reserved around strangers. However, they are not aggressive and will only use their size and strength to protect their loved ones if necessary. This makes them a great choice for families with children or other pets. This is huge since we have a cat plus a 4 and 2 year old.
Coat —
Great Pyrenees dogs have a thick, double coat that is weather-resistant and helps them stay warm in cold temperatures. Their coat is also one of the most recognizable traits of the breed, as it is long and fluffy. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including white, cream, gray, and tan. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to keep it clean and healthy. I have noticed that the shedding isn’t as bad as our german shepherd mix we used to have, so that is a plus! Our Dolly is pure white, her tail doesn’t curl like some, and she was born without her dew claws that most great pyrenees.
Energy Level —
Great Pyrenees dogs have a moderate energy level, which makes them different from other large breed dogs that are known for their high energy levels. They still require daily exercise, but they are not as demanding as other breeds. They are content to spend time with their families and to patrol their territory, which makes them great companions for those who want a large breed dog but do not have the time or energy to keep up with a high-energy breed. I love how a quick 10–20 minute walk is really all she needs!
Intelligence —
Great Pyrenees dogs are highly intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train. However, their intelligence also makes them excellent problem-solvers and decision-makers. They are known for being able to make decisions on their own when guarding their livestock, which is why they are often trusted to work independently. This can be tough because I have noticed Dolly Snow doesn’t always come when she is called, but she is highly motivated with treats and if she knows I possess them she will MOST LIKELY listen. 🙂
Health —
Great Pyrenees dogs are generally healthy, but they are prone to certain health issues that are common in large breed dogs. These include hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart issues. It is important to work with a reputable breeder and to keep up with regular veterinary check-ups to ensure that your Great Pyrenees dog stays healthy. This all makes sense, even golden retrievers are known to have hip problems, but what surprised me was the great pyrenees life span (10–12 years) which is typically longer than other large breeds.
Food —
When I was talking about adopting Dolly I was told that I would spend an arm and a leg on food, but here is another surprising thing I found out. Since they are not high energy dogs, they typically require the same amount of food as medium breed dogs which is 4–6 cups a day depending on their amount of exercise and size. When I heard this I thought, “That’s pretty cool!”
In conclusion,
Great Pyrenees dogs are a unique breed that stands out from other large breed dogs. Their size, temperament, coat, energy level, intelligence, and health make them a great choice for families who are looking for a gentle and protective companion. I’m going to make it my mission to share all of the things I have learned in raising this beautiful dog. So if you have questions please leave a comment.
If you are considering adding a Great Pyrenees dog to your family, be sure to do your research and work with a reputable breeder to ensure that you bring home a healthy and happy dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are Great Pyrenees different from other dogs?
Great Pyrenees are a unique breed of dog that are distinct from others in several ways. Firstly, they are a large breed, often weighing over 100 pounds and standing over two feet tall at the shoulder. They are also known for their thick white coat, which provides them with protection from cold weather and predators. They are calm, patient, and gentle dogs, which makes them great family pets.
Why choose a Great Pyrenees?
Choosing a Great Pyrenees can be a great decision for many reasons. They are loyal, protective, and make excellent watchdogs. They are also great with children, making them a perfect family pet. They are intelligent and quick learners, which means they can be easily trained to perform various tasks.
What are the pros and cons of a Great Pyrenees?
One of the main pros of owning a Great Pyrenees is their loyalty and protective nature. They are great watchdogs and will fiercely protect their family and property. They are also very patient and gentle, which makes them great with children. However, their size can be a con for some people, as they require a lot of space to move around and can be difficult to handle for inexperienced owners. They also shed a lot and require regular grooming.
What are Great Pyrenees best at?
Great Pyrenees are best at guarding and protecting their family and property. They are also great at herding and are often used as working dogs on farms. Due to their calm and patient nature, they can also be used as therapy dogs.
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