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Great Pyrenees Facts
- Group
- Working
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 25" - 32"
- Weight
- 90-130 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 10 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Chien des Pyrenees, Pyrenean mountain dog, le chien de montagne des Pyrenees
Origin
The Great Pyrenees was developed in the Pyrenees Mountains in France.
Date Of Origin
This breed's remains are found in the fossil deposits of the Bronze Age, which roughly dates his appearance in Europe between 1800 and 1000 BC, although it is believed that he came originally from Central Asia or Siberia and followed the migration into Europe.
History
The Great Pyrenees was developed as a flock guardian in the Pyrenees Mountains. It is believed to be related to the other flock guardians from Asia and Europe, including the Akbash and Meremma sheep dogs. In the seventeenth century it became a popular companion of French nobility. The Great Pyrenees was recognized by the American Kennel Club in February of 1933. History credits the first pair to be brought to the United States by General Lafayette for his friend J. S. Skinner in 1824.
Description
The Great Pyrenees is a large, powerful dog that is slightly longer than it is tall. The wedge shaped head has almond shaped, dark brown eyes and a black nose and lips.The ears are small, V-shaped and dropped. The long, well plumed tail is carried low or over the back. There is a profuse, medium length coat that is white or white with markings.
Temperament
This is a stable, loyal, and confident breed, affectionate and gentle with its family but protective and territorial. It tends to be somewhat nocturnal, resting during the day and guarding at night.
Uses
It was born to live in the mountains. With a minimum of training it can be used for guarding sheep, as a guide through heavy shows, a rescue dog for avalanche victims, and a guardian of person and property. It needs space but is well adapted to family life.
Health Concerns
Bloat, entropion, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas.
Additional Information
Daily brushing is needed during the spring and fall seasons when the dog is blowing coat. If the undercoat is not brushed it will become matted.
This dog also tends to drool.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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