Our Great Pyrenees FAQ's
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Great Pyrenees FAQ's....

1) Great Pyrenees at a Glance:
Pyrs are a large breed, with males growing up to 32 inches and generally weighing 100 pounds or more. They have floppy ears and a white coat, which can come with markings of gray, tan or brown. This coat forms a thick ruff of mane around the neck and shoulders, which was useful while guarding sheep as it stopped wolves being able to get a good grip on their necks. The ruff is more pronounced on males of the breed.

2) History of the Breed:
Pyrs are an ancient breed, and their remains have been found in fossil deposits from the Bronze Age. They worked with shepherds in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France, protecting livestock from attack. Their elegance and character meant they could not remain in the mountains and by 1675 they had been named the Royal Dog of France. This increased the demand for the dogs, and many members of the French nobility owned one. However, they mostly remained a working dog and can still be found guarding sheep today.

3) Great Pyrenees Personality:
Pyrs were often left alone in mountain valleys with just their flock for company, so have developed a strong, independent streak. This has not made them aloof, though. They are generally known as calm, well-mannered, and devoted to their family. The Pyrenees have an affectionate nature and their time spent as guardians have made them gentle with children and small animals. They try to protect their family if the need arises, and many remain wary of strangers, especially if they sense their owners are uncomfortable.

4) Common Ailments:
Like many large dogs, Pyrs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, although breeders have been proactive in testing for these conditions. Other conditions seen in the breed are heart problems and eye problems such as cataracts and retinal atrophy.