What is the temperament of a Great Pyrenees?

Great Pyreneess are known to be strong willed, fearless, affectionate, patient, gentle, confident, smart, funny, curious, friendly, sweet, loyal, couch, athletic, brave. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Great Pyrenees need?

Great Pyreneess have low energy levels and require minimal daily exercise, typically 15-30 minutes of gentle activity.

How often should I groom my Great Pyrenees?

Great Pyreneess require minimal grooming with weekly brushing and occasional baths.

How do I train a Great Pyrenees?

Great Pyreneess are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are Great Pyreneess good with children?

Great Pyreneess are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Great Pyrenees unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Great Pyrenees stands out from other breeds due to its impressive stature and presence, rich heritage from France, natural protective instincts. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Great Pyrenees?

Before bringing a Great Pyrenees into your home, potential owners should consider: They have relatively low exercise needs (2/5), making them suitable for less active households. Their coat is relatively low-maintenance (2/5). They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They're typically highly trainable (4/5) and eager to learn. Their large size requires adequate living space. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Great Pyrenees. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Great Pyreneess originally bred for?

Great Pyreneess were originally bred for sheep guardian. This protective background explains their naturally alert, territorial nature and sometimes reserved attitude toward strangers. As part of the Working group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Great Pyrenees's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Great Pyreneess are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Great Pyreneess typically live?

The average lifespan of a Great Pyrenees is 10 - 12 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Great Pyreneess may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

← Back to Breeds

Advertisement space

Great PyreneesImage not available

More Great Pyrenees Photos

Sidebar advertisement

Great Pyrenees

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: February 3, 2026

Temperament

Strong Willed, Fearless, Affectionate, Patient, Gentle, Confident, Smart, Funny, Curious, Friendly, Sweet, Loyal, Couch, Athletic, Brave

Weight

85 - 115 lbs

Height

25 - 32 inches

Life Span

10 - 12 years

Breed Group

Working

Bred For

Sheep guardian

Origin

France

In-content advertisement

Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability4/5

Energy Level2/5

Grooming Needs2/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs2/5

They have a low to moderate energy level and need regular but not extensive exercise.

Grooming Requirements2/5

They need regular but basic grooming such as weekly brushing.

Trainability4/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

🐕 Great Pyrenees Guide

📚 Explore comprehensive information about this breed

Overview

About the Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics.

Breed Purpose

Sheep guardian

Temperament

Strong Willed, Fearless, Affectionate, Patient, Gentle, Confident, Smart, Funny, Curious, Friendly, Sweet, Loyal, Couch, Athletic, Brave

How We Find Similar Breeds

We analyze breed characteristics including temperament, size, appearance, and care needs to identify the most similar dog breeds. This helps you discover alternatives that might be a good match for your lifestyle and preferences.

More Great Pyrenees Photos

Great Pyrenees

Temperament

Weight

Height

Life Span

Breed Group

Bred For

Origin

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Characteristics

Care Requirements

About the Great Pyrenees

Breed Purpose

Temperament

Breeds Similar to Great PyreneesSimilar to Great Pyrenees

How We Find Similar Breeds