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Great Pyrenees |
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Description... |
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The Great Pyrenees is a rather
large dog, often solid white or mostly white with a few grey or tan
markings. Its ears often hang down as well. A calm and purposeful
dog, the Great Pyrenees loves cold weather and needs lots of space
to roam. In addition, this breed is independent but very protective,
often becoming extremely attached to one particular person.
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History...
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 The
Great Pyrenees is an old breed from the high, isolated Pyrenean
mountains between France and Spain. The dog would guard sheep flocks
against wolves or bears. During the Medieval period in France, this
breed became the royal court dog and guardian of the nobility.
During World War Two, the Great Pyrenees often ran contraband over
the Franco-Spanish border. Today, the breed is still often used as a
herd dog or cart dog, but also as a companion and, occasionally, a
pack dog on ski trips!
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Traits...
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Do NOT wrestle or play other,
aggressive games like tug-of-war with this breed. In addition, these
dogs have very little retrieving instinct, so playing fetch will be
frustrating for both of you! Your best bet is a long walk ALWAYS
keeping your Pyrenees leashed.
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Good aspects...
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 This
breed combines a number of wonderful qualities: great intelligence,
good health, deep devotion to family and home, and a natural born
instinct to guard and protect. This dog loves cold weather and lots
of open space to roam and explore. They require little trimming or
clipping, and remain relatively inactive when indoors. However,
these large dogs are wonderful watch dogs. They are not "attack"
dogs, but often their size alone will intimidate most would-be
attackers!
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Health...
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The Great Pyrenees has few genetic
problems, but can suffer from such common disorders as hip
dysplasia, eyelid abnormalities, and bloat. Of special note is the
breed's low metabolism which can have negative side-effects if
aesthetic is administered improperly by your vet. In addition, never
clip your Pyrenees in the summer, as these dogs need their coats to
protect them from the harsh sun.
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Be aware...
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The Great Pyrenees has a low level of
sociability with strangers. In addition, they require a lot of
exercise - at least four walks a day of thirty minutes each. They
can be difficult to train, and are only recommended for very
experienced owners. They must be leashed at all times if not in a
fenced yard as they will, by instinct, attempt to patrol and control
a large area.
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Summary...
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This large and beautiful dog was a
born herder, so be careful not to let your Pyrenees off its leash,
or else you might find a herd of stray cattle in your yard the next
morning!
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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