Great Pyrenees

Temperament:
The Great Pyrenees is a capable and imposing guardian, devoted to its family, and somewhat wary of strangers - human or canine. They are often used to guard livestock. When not provoked, it is calm, well- mannered, and somewhat serious. Courageous, very loyal and obedient. Gentle and affectionate with those he loves. Devoted to family even if self-sacrifice is required. It is very gentle with its family and children. It does best with children when it is raised with them from puppyhood. It has an independent, somewhat stubborn nature, and may try to dominate a less secure owner. A serious worker, but very independent. Be patient when training the Great Pyrenees, as it may be slightly difficult. It is important to socialize and train this breed properly to insure good citizenship. Male dogs can be aggressive with other animals. The Great Pyrenees is good with non-canine animals, and usually loves cats. These dogs do not reach maturity until they are about 2 years old. Some are not good off the leash and may wander away. The Great Pyrenees tends to bark a lot and some tend to drool and slobber.

Grooming:
Regular brushing of the long double coat will keep it in good condition, but extra care is needed when the dog is shedding its dense undercoat. The outer coat does not mat, so care is relatively easy. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. These dogs shed heavily once a year.

Exercise:
Pyrenees need plenty of exercise to stay in shape. If they are not actively working as a flock guardian, they need to be taken on a daily, long brisk walk.

Living Condition:
These dogs are not recommended for apartment life. They need space, but adapt well to family life. They are not really active indoors, but would be happy with regular exercise outdoors or in a mid-to-large sized yard. Puppies are very active and might have the tendency to wander off or escape. The Great Pyrenees prefers cool climates.

Origin:
The Great Pyrenees descended from the Hungarian Kuvasz and the Maremmano-Abruzzese. The Pyrenees is considered the aristocratic relative of the St. Bernard and the Newfoundland. It has a long history in its native France as a guard dog of sheep and chateaux. Remains dating as for back as 1800 BC of a dog similar to the Great Pyrenees have been discovered in Europe, though the breed probably originated much earlier in Asia or Siberia. Once established in Europe, the Great Pyrenees (also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog) remained in the high mountain regions until the Middle ages, When the breed gradually gained popularity with the French nobility as a guard dog. By the late 17th century, every French noble wanted to own one. Armed with a spiky collar and thick coat (a natural defense against attack), the Great Pyrenees protected vulnerable flocks from such predators as wolves and bear. Born to live in the mountains, this versatile breed has also served man in other ways: as an avalanche rescue dog, as a cart-puller and a sled dog, as a pack dog on ski trips, and as a companion and defender of family and property. With a minimum of training it can still be used today. In ancient times, when its temperament was less gentle, it may have been used as a dog of war. The Great Pyrenees was an important part of the founding stock for the Newfoundland. The AKC officially recognized it in 1933.