One of the oldest breeds, the bones of Great Pyrenees and depictions of Great Pyrenees dogs have been discovered in archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age. From these early dogs descended the large white guard dog of the flocks as we know it today. Because it was used for centuries as a guarding dog this is a breed with strong protective instincts. It is still used with livestock throughout Europe. For some time in England and in the United States, the Great Pyr was popular only as a Show Dog or a pet but as its herding instincts became known, it has been used more and more often for its original purpose in the United States. Farmers in the Midwest nowadays prize this breed for its protective nature and it is heavily used as a flock guardian to ward off predators, especially the coyote.
The color of the dog, always white, allows it to blend in as part of the flock. The dog can be fierce and will swiftly dispatch any predator which threatens its charges. Thus it is important that if the dog is to be the family pet, it is brought up from puppy hood with children and is well trained in obedience.
The coat is dense and double. Naturally water resistant, it is somewhat oily. The guard hairs should be harsh, never silky. The head is well set on a strong and powerful neck, which can appear "short" due to the steep lay-back of the shoulders. The shoulder angulation and powerful rear quarters are necessary for the dog to do the strenuous climbing and balancing in the mountainous regions where it originated. The most distinctive part of the anatomy of this breed is the double dew claws found on the rear feet. These dew claws were said to be helpful in the original environs of the breed, the crags and rocks of the high Pyrenees Alps, as an aid to the climbing skills necessary while guarding the mountain sheep in the snow covered peaks of its homeland. Though these appendages are no longer necessary for its survival they are still a mark of the true Pyrenees dog and when people question the origin of a mixed breed, the double dew claws are an unmistakable sign that the dog has the Great Pyrenees in its background.
The Great Pyrenees, like most of the giant breeds, must be checked for hip dysplasia before being bred. Other than that it is generally quite healthy. Occasionally a dog may suffer from Epilepsy. If not kept brushed hot spots can be a problem, usually these can be kept under control with adequate brushing. Baths are necessary only infrequently when the dog is used for a flock guardian as too many baths will destroy the natural protective oils in the coat. A show dog , however, or one that is in a family setting, must be bathed frequently and it is these dogs that will develop more tendencies towards hot spots if they are not thoroughly dried after a bath.
The Great Pyrenees can make a wonderfully loving and gentle family pet but is suspicious of strangers and can be aggressive towards other dogs. This dog does not adapt well to apartment living and is quite content to be outside, preferably as a part of the flock of sheep or goats.
