Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees are generally well-mannered and gentle, but they are more than willing to protect their family when needed. If they sense distress, they won't hesitate to bark, which makes them excellent guard dogs. They are big and imposing, and they know it. Pyrs aren't afraid to use their size and their bark to defend their owners and their property. In fact, if you're hoping your big guard dog will warm up to your friends and neighbors, you'll have to have them introduced. As instinctual flock guards, Pyrs will need to be socialized consistently to learn to effectively determine friend from foe. With socialization and rewards for polite behavior, the Great Pyrenees can be a very effective guard dog and a sensitive, friendly companion.

Pyrs are affectionate dogs. They love to feel close to their and they demonstrate their love to their people by pawing, nudging and licking them. Pyrs love to snuggle and make their owner's space their space. Don't expect your dog to realize that his size prevents him from joining you in bed or on the couch. These giant dogs are also independent. Their size and strength enabled them to work on their own, guarding flocks and hauling supplies through the Great Pyrenees mountains. As a result, they've been bred to make their own decisions, and they might require extra patience and firm, dominant commands to reach their full potential.

The Great Pyrenees's coat is only seen in white. Some dogs have cream or tannish markings on their body and ears, but the coat should be predominantly white. The abundant double coat makes the dog appear more substantial than he actually is. The coat is weather-resistant with a very thick, wooly undercoat and a soft, long and straight overcoat that stands out from the body. All dogs, but especially males, have a noticeable neck ruff and a long-haired, plumed tail. The coat acts as insulation in hot and cold weather, so don't feel the need to clip your Pyr short in the summer.