The Upside

As a breed, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs are remarkably healthy and long-lived. They have few major genetic problems and can easily live to be 10 -12 years old.

Pyreneans require less feeding when compared with dogs of a similar size (ie. Saint Bernard, Newfoundland and many of the 'Mastiff' breeds), and in turn usually require less exercise. Despite their size, Adult Pyreneans make excellent house dogs.

Pyreneans have a natural instinct to guard and protect and are devoted to the welfare of their family unlike many other breeds. They are particularly good with small children and other animals and have been lovingly branded ‘Gentle Giants’.

Potential Downside

Pyreneans are livestock guardians and were bred to be left alone with the sheep in the mountain valleys of the Pyrenees. They are a guard dog by instinct, not by training. Unlike many breeds that have been trained to take commands from people, Pyreneans prefer to work independently. As a result of this stoic independence, Pyreneans have a mind of their own and are not easily obedience trained (ie. competitive obedience trials) . So if you require a dog that will instantly follow your commands, run off-leash, and compete in obedience, a Pyrenean is probably not for you. In saying this, we have had numerous Pyreneans advance through several levels of obedience so their independence should not be confused with their intelligence.

While trustworthy, gentle and well mannered, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog can be a protective guardian of their family and their territory when the need arises. Thus, they command respect as a guard dog and admiration as a pet. They will generally accept anyone you invite into your home, but can be intimidating to a surprise visitor. Pyreneans are guard dogs, not 'attack' dogs, but it is important to monitor a young Pyrenean’s guarding instincts to ensure they are exercised in an appropriate way.

As adults, Pyreneans are calm and composed in the house, enjoying quiet periods in which to rest and sleep. But they are a large breed and are not always suited to life in an urban setting with a small backyard.

Like all livestock guardian breeds, Pyreneans can be barkers. The amount of barking varies amongst individual dogs, but the instinct is there, and in some highly built-up urban settings, this can cause problems if not addressed quickly.

A Simple Check list...

• Are you physically able to handle a very large dog? During puppy-hood a Pyrenean can weigh up to 50kg and they can be challenging.
  
• Does dog hair around the house bother you? Despite routine grooming, Pyreneans do shed.
  
• Are you and your family able to provide love and attention on a daily basis? A lonesome dog is a bored dog, and a bored dog is a destructive dog.
  
• Do you have room for a Pyrenean? Small units and apartments are not ideal. Pyreneans must however be confined in a well-fenced area.