Great Pyrenees — breed guide
A livestock guardian that works at night — expect barking after dark, it is the job, not a fault.
At a glance
- Group
- working
- Size
- Giant
- Weight
- 39–73 kg (86–161 lb)
- Life span
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Thick weatherproof double coat
Living with a Great Pyrenees
- Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Constant heavy shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Barks readily.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Sensitive to heat; keep summer walks short.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Serene · Watchful · Independent · Gentle
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
- Patellar luxation
- Bone cancer
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Great Pyrenees good with kids?
Generally yes. Great Pyreneess are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Great Pyrenees good with cats?
Usually yes. Great Pyreneess typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Great Pyrenees need?
A gentle daily walk.
Can a Great Pyrenees handle hot weather?
It is sensitive; avoid the midday heat.
Leash Life keeps a Great Pyrenees's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.