Nickname        : The Court Dog of France

Breed Origins : France ( Dates back to antiquity )

Breed usage     : Herding and guarding sheep

Dog Weight      : 85 - 100 Pounds

Dog Height       : 25 to 32 inches to the shoulder

History
Great Pyrenees originates from France and was bred originally for herding and guarding sheep. It’s origins can be dated back to Ancient Times. The Great Pyrenees is a member of the Mastiff family. The beautiful and elegant white dog was used for centuries by the working peasant shepherds on the French / Spanish Pyrenees mountain slopes. In the 1600’s a French Courtier discovered the dog and following its introduction it achieved the status of the court dog of France. The Great Pyrenees is also known by the other names of Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Chien des Pyrenees and Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees. This dog is classified as one of the Working Dog Group . The Great Pyrenees was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1933.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Character and Temperament
  Dogs in the Working group, which include the Great Pyrenees, were developed to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as herding, droving, pulling, hauling, herding, hunting, rescuing and guarding. The very nature of many of these tasks require a big, strong dog. These dogs have a long and close association with man and have provided invaluable help to their owners. The working dogs are generally large, intelligent, and protective of their masters. Working dogs have always been viewed as real assets to their owners and have worked with man replacing larger animals such as horses when none such animals were available. Advanced technology and machinery have negated some of the working requirements of these dogs but strength, courage and a fast reactions ensure that this partnership will continue long into the future. Working dogs, like the Great Pyrenees, are medium to giant size and are strong, often independent, domineering and difficult to manage. This, together with the immense sizes of many of the breeds, make many of the working dogs unsuitable as a normal family pet or first time dog owners. These dogs require firm control and must be properly trained. Formal obedience training should include a proper socialising program. Training need not be difficult as Working dog breeds are generally quick to learn and intelligent.

• Coat and Colours information
  The Great Pyrenees’s coat is normally a shade of white. The coat is normally long and coarse.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Great Pyrenees, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Great Pyrenees can include:
  • Hip Dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints)
  • Entropion (the inversion, or turning inward, of the border of the eyelid against the eyeball)
  • Gastric Torsion
  • Patellar Luxation ( The patella, or kneecap, is part of the stifle joint (knee). In patellar luxation, the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place )
  • The life expectancy for the Great Pyrenese is 12 – 14 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Great Pyrenees requires weekly care and grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.