Origin:
The handsome animated snowdrift known as the Great Pyrenees descended from the Molossian hounds brought to Spain by the Romans. They became established in the Pyrenean Mountains on the Franco-Spanish border and bred pure there for centuries. The Pyr was used to protect sheep from predators and guard fortresses during the Middle Ages. While on a visit to a spa in the Pyrenees in the 18th century, the Dauphin of France was so entranced by the breed that he took some puppies home and the breed became the official dog of the court of Louis XIV. Little was seen of the breed outside its homeland until the 1930s when some excellent breeding stock was imported to the U.S.
Temperament:
Gentle and docile with those it knows, the Pyr is recognized as a breed which moulds itself to the moods and desires of its human companions. As a guard dog, it shows courage and a natural protectiveness.
Activity Level:
Easily trained, the Pyr is a serious dog in both work and play. It displays a calm nature with those it knows. Regular outdoor exercise is a good idea for this majestic dog.
Height/Weight:
The average height at the shoulder runs from 27-32 in (69-81 cm) for adult males. Females will be somewhat smaller. The heavily boned Pyr will weigh 85-125 lb (38.5-56.5 kg).
Coat:
Created to withstand severe weather, the outer coat is long, flat, thick and coarse. It may be straight or undulate slightly. Underneath the weather-resistant outer coat is a heavy, fine, undercoat for insulation.
Colour:
The Pyr is all white or white with badger, grey or tan markings.
Grooming:
Lots of brushing is needed to remove dead hair and keep shedding to a minimum. Because the Pyr is essentially an outdoor breed, almost constant shedding can be a problem with the Pyr that spends part of the time indoors.
