Great Pyrenees
Laid-back but courageous when needed
Pyrs 101
Working groupThe Great Pyrenees, the most popular of the livestock guardian breeds, is a laid-back dog that is nonetheless athletic and alert when it perceives a threat to those under their protection. They are intelligent but not particularly obedient, with good reason. They were developed to think for themselves and often believe they know what's best for those they're "protecting." Those who understand the breed love them for their calm and protective nature, and let them be the dog they're meant to be. Because of their size and strength, early socialization and training are essential to helping them live in family environments.
What we love about Pyrs
Devoted and loving to their flocks and families
Energy level
Energy level: 50% (Moderate)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary
Size
Size: 25 to 32 inches tall. This is a X large sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- As needed
- Height
- 25 to 32 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 12 years
- Weight
- 85 to 100 lbs
The Great Pyrenees stands 25 to 32 inches tall and weighs 85 to 100 lbs. Great Pyreneess have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a as needed bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Great Pyreneess get?
- Great Pyreneess stand 25 to 32 inches tall and typically weigh between 85 and 100 pounds.
- How long do Great Pyreneess live?
- The average lifespan of a Great Pyrenees is 10 to 12 years.
- Are Great Pyreneess good for first-time dog owners?
- Great Pyreneess have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Great Pyreneess bark a lot?
- Great Pyreneess typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Great Pyrenees health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Mid-life Great Pyreneess should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
40% on risk scaleSenior Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Senior Great Pyreneess face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis is at high risk.
- Arthritis
- High Risk
- Skin cancer
- Moderate Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Moderate Risk
Pyr puppy
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Great Pyrenees puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection and Trauma are at moderate risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
As Great Pyreneess grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Hip dysplasia and Ear infection are at moderate risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Moderate Risk
- Hip dysplasia
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Mature adult Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Mid-life Great Pyreneess should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Ear infection
- Above Average Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Senior Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Senior Great Pyreneess face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Arthritis is at high risk.
- Arthritis
- High Risk
- Skin cancer
- Moderate Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Moderate Risk
Pyr puppy
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
Great Pyrenees puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis and Ear infection and Trauma are at moderate risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Trauma
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Pyr
Risk level for common Pyr conditions
As Great Pyreneess grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Hip dysplasia and Ear infection are at moderate risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Moderate Risk
- Hip dysplasia
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Great Pyrenees's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 15 months)
- Gastroenteritis: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Trauma: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (16 months to 3 years)
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Moderate Risk, Hip dysplasia: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk
- Mature Adult (4 years to 6 years)
- Ear infection: Above Average Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Above Average Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
- Senior (7+ years)
- Arthritis: High Risk, Skin cancer: Moderate Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Moderate Risk
In their native land, the breed is aptly known as "Le Grande Chien des Montagnes" – the Big Dog of the Mountains.
Great Pyrenees coat care and colors
No surprise for a breed developed to live outside in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, the Pyr has a thick double coat that requires regular brushing and combing to minimize shedding. Because of their size, it's wise to teach puppies to accept nail trims while they're small.
How do I take care of my Great Pyrenees fur?
How do I take care of my Great Pyrenees fur?
Should I cut the hair of my Great Pyrenees?
Should I cut the hair of my Great Pyrenees?
What kind of brush should I use on my Great Pyrenees?
What kind of brush should I use on my Great Pyrenees?
Pyr exercise & training
Pyr fun facts
Top girl names for Pyrs
of Pyrs are female
of Pyrs are male
Top boy names for Pyrs
Nationwide loves Great Pyreneess of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Great Pyreneess insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Great Pyrenees statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Pyrs
Best. Great Pyrenees insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free