Fallin' Pine Pyrenees

               Stella and Scout

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About Great Pyrenees

About the Breed: 
Males grow to 110–130 pounds and females reach 90–115 pounds  with an average lifespan of 10 to 11 years.

Pyrenees have a weather resistant double coat. The main coat color is white and can have varying shades of gray, red (rust), or tan around the face (including a full face mask), ears and sometimes on the body and tail. As Great Pyrenees mature, their coats grow thicker and the longer colored hair of the coat often fades. Sometimes a little light tan or lemon will appear later in life around the ears and face. Being a double-coated breed, the undercoat can also have color and the skin as well. The color of the nose and on the eye rims should be jet black. They have  unique double dew claws on each hind leg.

The Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle (especially with children), and affectionate. While territorial and protective of its flock or family when necessary, its general demeanor is of composure and patience and loyalty. It is a strong willed, independent and reserved breed. It is also attentive, quite fearless and loyal to its duties. The Great Pyrenees' size makes it an imposing guardian. A dog of this breed will patrol its perimeter and may wander away if left off its leash in an unenclosed space. The Great Pyrenees protects its flock by barking, and being nocturnal, tends to bark at night.  The Great Pyrenees can be slow to learn new commands and slow to obey as they are independent thinkers.

This dog was originally bred to be a livestock guard dog.  The Great Pyrenees was once known as the royal dog of France and, with his stunning white coat and imposing presence, is considered to be one of the most beautiful breeds. His heritage is that of a flock-guarding dog in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain. Rather than herding sheep or other livestock, it was his job to protect them from predators such as wolves. The job called for a large, powerful, brave, and wary dog. He worked independently, often on his own for days or weeks at a time, and is unaccustomed to taking a lot of orders.  Because they are guardian dogs, Great Pyrenees are suspicious as a rule.  They will graciously admit anyone you invite into your home, but intruders or unexpected visitors will get a very different, much more intimidating reception.
 
The Great Pyrenees requires a secure fence that will prevent him from roaming and attempting to enlarge his territory. He is not a candidate for off-leash walks. While he thrives in cold weather, he is sensitive to heat. And he drools.  And barks!