Great Pyrenees (Pyrenean Mountain Dog)

The Great Pyrenees (also called the Pyrenean Mountain Dog ) breed is a large, wonderfully white and furry dog breed. According to Wikipedia, Great Pyrenees dogs tend to look very much like Landseer Newfoundland dogs, especially if the Pyrenean has dark patches. As a large, active animal, Great Pyrenees dogs definitely their space, including plenty of outdoor time.

The Great Pyrenees's Behavior

Source: Wikipedia.

Recommended for: pet

The Great Pyrenees breed is generally considered quite active, and as a large herding breed, needs plenty of outdoor time. A Great Pyrenees dog's bark is said to be "booming." Bred over millennia to guard sheep, a Great Pyrenees can tend to be a bit protective and even territorial.

Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.

The Great Pyrenees's Physical Characteristics

Here are some of the characteristics of the Great Pyrenees breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.

* Size: Males: 27-32 inches; Females: 25-29 inches
* Coat: all-weather overcoat of coarse, straight or slightly undulating hairs over a dense, fine, wooly undercoat.
* Color: white, possibly with gray, badger, red-brown, or tan markings.
* Eyes: medium-sized, almond-shaped, rich dark brown, with close-fitting eyelids and black rims.
* Ears: small-to-medium-sized V-shaped ears rounded at the tips, carried low, flat, and close to the head
* Skull: equally wide and long, with flat cheeks
* Muzzle: roughly as long as the back skull
* Nose: black

The Great Pyrenees's Origins and History

Source: Wikipedia.

Country/Region of Origin: Basque country of the Pyrenees Mountain region, especially on the French side

Original purpose: shepherd/guarding dog

Name: also called "Pyrenean Mountain Dog," "Chien des Pyrenees, or "Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees"

Historical notes: The Great Pyrenees breed has been kept among the Basques of the Pyrenees Mountain region for thousands of years. The dog was also the official dog of the French royal court.