Pyrenean Mountain Dog

[Troy]

The Pyrenean Mountain Dog

ANKC Standard

(from http://www.ankc.org.au/home/breeds_details.asp?bid=172 )

Group: Group 6 (Utility)

General Appearance: A powerful and imposing dog with a certain elegance. Great size, strongly built but not cumbersome. Well balanced and of noble bearing.

Characteristics: A natural guard dog protecting shepherd and sheep.

Temperament: Quietly confident. Nervousness and unprovoked aggression highly undesirable.

Head And Skull: Strong head without coarseness, not too heavy in relation to size of dog. Skull curved when viewed from front and sides. Breadth at widest point about equal to length from occiput to stop. Head as viewed from above forms a blunt "V" shape, well filled in below the eyes. Sides nearly flat and of good depth. No obvious stop or excessively protruding eyebrow ridges; only slight furrow, so that skull and muzzle are joined by gentle slope. Strong muzzle, medium length, slight taper near tip. Nose black.

Eyes: Almond shaped, dark amber-brown. Close-fitting eyelids set somewhat obliquely, bordered with black. Drooping lower eyelids undesirable. Intelligent and contemplative expression.

Ears: Fairly small, triangular, rounded tips. Root level with eyes. Normally lie flat against head, may be slightly raised when alert.

Mouth: Complete dentition, healthy, strong and even. Scissor bite correct, i.e. Upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws, but pincer bite tolerated. Two central lower incisors may be set a little deeper than others. Close-fitting lips, upper just covering lower. Roof of mouth and lips black or heavily marked with black.

Neck: Strong, fairly short. Little or no dewlap.

Forequarters: Powerful shoulders lying close to body. Medium angulation between shoulder blade and upper arm. Forelegs straight, strongly boned, well muscled. Elbows not too close to chest, nor too far off, giving adequate width of stance and free-striding movement. Pasterns flexible without weakness.

Body: Broad chest reaching just below elbows; sides slightly rounded, ribcage extended well to rear. Good length back, broad, muscular, straight, level. Dogs usually have more pronounced waist than bitches, giving greater curve to lower body.

Hindquarters: Broad muscular loins, fairly prominent haunches, slightly sloping rump, topline curving smoothly into tail. Strong, well muscled thighs tapering to strong hocks. Stifle and hock of medium angulation seen from side. Strongly made double dewclaws on each hind leg; lack of this identifying characteristic totally undesirable. The hind feet may turn out slightly but legs themselves must be straight.

Feet: Short and compact, toes slightly arched, strong nails.

Tail: Thick at root, tapering gradually towards tip, preferably slightly curled; reaching below hocks, thickly coated with fairly long hair forming attractive plume. Carried low in repose, with tip turned slightly to one side. Tail rises as dog becomes interested: curled high above back in a circle if fully alert.

Gait/Movement: Very free, unflagging and never ponderous. Unhurried, driven by powerful hindquarters. Moving well within its capacity, yet able to produce bursts of speed. Tends to pace at slow speeds.

Coat: Profuse undercoat of very fine hairs; outer coat longer; coarser textured, thick, lying flat and straight or slightly wavy. Longer towards tail and forming mane round neck and shoulders. Forelegs fringed. Long, very dense woollier hair on thighs giving 'pantaloon' effect.

Bitches tend to be smoother coated than dogs and have less-developed mane.

Colour: White

(a) White

(b) White with patches of badger, wolf grey, paler shades of lemon, orange or tan. The colour patches may be on the head, ears or base of tail and a few permissible on body.

Other colours undesirable.

Black patches going right down to the roots highly undesirable. Black nose and eye rims. Liver or pink pigmentation highly undesirable.

Sizes: Minimum height:

Dogs 70 cms (27.5 ins) at shoulder

Bitches 65 cms (25.5 ins) at shoulder

Most will considerably exceed this, great size is essential provided type and character are retained.

Minimum weight:

Dogs 50 kgs (110 lbs)

Bitches 40 kgs (88 lbs)

These weights apply only to specimens of minimum height, taller ones should be heavier. Weight always in proportion to height, giving a powerful dog of great strength, but excess weight due to fat undesirable.

Faults: Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog.

Notes: Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

See photos of the Pyrenean Mountain Dog

QUESTIONS

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

3. How common is it in Australia?

4. What is the average lifespan?

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

9. How much grooming is required?

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

If you wish to contribute to the knowledge about this breed, please answer the above questions. (Copy and paste them into a new post).

• Please only answer if you breed or own a pedigree example of this breed.
  
• You do not have to answer all questions
  
• Please keep posts limited to answering questions or for asking further questions if you require more (or expanded) information.
  

See photos of the Pyrenean Mountain Dog

Pyrenean Mountain Dog Breeders

Pyrenean Mountain Dog Puppies For Sale

[espinay2]

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

Long time owner, exhibitor and registered breeder.

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

The Pyrenean is an ancient breed with an early ancestral relationship to many other livesock guardian breeds whose use expanded in an area from Tibet to Spain with the spreading of sheep both geographically and in time. It is estimated that the ancestors of the Pyr arrived in the Pyrenees mountains around 3000BC. In 1391, King Charles VI's life was saved by a Pyr and in 1407 the Counts of Bigorre used them to guard the Chateau de Lourdes. The Pyr gained favour in the French royal court when in 1675 the son of King Louis XIV made friends with a Young Pyr and brought it back from the Pyrenees mountains. Despite this the Pyr has also always remained a working dog employed by French mountain shepherds to protect their flocks from bears and wolves. WWI took its toll on the breed with many dogs being killed and the survivors often badly nourished due to rationing. Many were no longer suitable for breeding. Devoted lovers of the breed took the matter in hand and it was then that the current French club, the Reunion des Amateurs de Chiens Pyreneens (RACP) was formed. It was around this time that the first standard for the breed was developed, drawing on the experience of the French mountain farmers and shepherds who played a strong role in ensuring the continuation of the breed as it had existed for many hundreds of years. Hundreds of dogs were examined with the best and most representative being chosen for a breeding program to 'reconstitute' the breed. From this period the breed has developed and spread around with much to be written on the subject. Those wanting more information, or direction to reading material, let me know! I have attached some photos of well known and top winning international dogs of the recent past.

3. How common is it in Australia?

The breed is not overly common in Australia with only a handful of dedicated breeders. An average of 50 puppies have been registered per year over the last decade, with a low of 7 puppies being registered in 2005

4. What is the average lifespan?

Average age for a Pyrenean in Australia appears to be around 10 year of age, with some occasionally living to around 13.

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

Pyrs are a fairly independent breed and take their role as guardian seriously. They are generally a placid dog, confident and protective of its family and good with small creatures they consider 'theirs'. Owners describe them as affectionate, majestic and loveable. Because they are 'hardwired' to patrol large areas they can sometimes be escape artists in an effort to check out their surroundings, so they need good fences and gates to keep them home. Pyreneans were bred to bark to alert predators that they were on duty. This can sometimes be an issue with neighbours, so keeping the dog inside at night is a must.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

They don't need too much exercise, and when young should not be walked for long distances on lead. Exercise while growing should be limited mostly to free play. They enjoy a walk however, and would benefit from a daily trip around the neighobourhood. They should never be let off lead except when in a fully fenced area. There is a saying that an offlead pyr is a 'disapyr'.

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

They can be quite dominant, particularly when young. They need an owner who can cope with a large, strong and wilfull dog and be a strong leader. Their peculiarities as a livestock guardian can be challenging at the best of times. They may not be suited to all first time dog owners.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

As long as they have adequate access and interaction with their 'flock' (whether it be human or otherwise), a Pyr can do well on their own. In a suburban setting, they may take their job as guardian a little too seriously when in the yard on their own and this may require management. Generally their are happiest when they have a 'flock' to care for.

9. How much grooming is required?

A correct coat generally requires a good brush about once a week, with more brushing needed when they are shedding their coat (usually one major one a year). They do shed constantly all year round though and owners need to be prepared to have white hair in and on everything. If the coat is not cared for regularly it can become badly matted and difficult to manage.

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

Young dogs can be boisterous, but adults are generally calm and often adjust themselves to the people they are with, being gentle with those that need it. These dogs are often used as therapy dogs and also as mobility assistance dogs.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

They are generally a healthy breed, but as with many large breeds, bone and joint problems can be a concern. Hips, elbows and patellas can occasionally be affected. Dwarfism is present in the breed, though there have been no cases of this in Australia to date.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

At an absolute minimum I would recommend asking for hip scores for the parents. Unfortunately the number of Pyreneans being hip scored in Australia does not appear to be large. It will be up to potential owners to come prepared with knowledge and insist.

Edited August 28, 2009 by espinay2

[Bjelkier]

I have had the pleasure of meeting your beautiful Hamish at the Tarago show awhile ago and this has always been a breed I love.

I would love to read more about them, mind pointing me in the right direction?

Also what are they like with other dogs at home?

Edited August 29, 2009 by Wolfsong

[espinay2]

Some good websites for those interested in Pyreneans include:

The RACP website. This is in French, but is reasonably intuitive. Try using a web translator if you want to read it in more depth.

Great Pyrenees Connection which is a good hub for accessing information and websites.

The Pyrenean Journal, which has some great historical information and photos.

The Great Pyrenees Library homepage which has lots of good information and articles.

Good basic 'beginners' books are:

"Great Pyrenees: A Complete Pet Owners Manual" by Joan Hustace Walker; and

"Great Pyrenees Owner's Manual" by Joseph B Gentzel

If anyone is after a more comprehensive book list, please let me know.

I have found Pyrs to be generally good with other dogs, but it can depend on personalities. I would not run two entire males together, though most I know personally are happy to be penned side by side and in controlled situations (on lead side by side, in a car, crated side by side etc) have no issue with each other. Too big a risk to put them together though. Bitches can also develop grudges and I have had two Pyr bitches which fought and could never be together. Either side of a fence or even separated by a baby gate they were fine, but the war was on if they were ever in the same room or yard. Being paired with a dog of the opposite sex is generally recommended. Naturally, if a strange dog comes into the yard seemingly 'uninvited' (in their eyes) they will be seen as an unwanted predator so introductions need to be made off territory, and you need to make it clear the dog is accepted by you. Visiting dogs need to be controlled around the Pyrs 'flock' and territory in case they do something that is seen as a threat. If you are bringing a pup into a home with other dogs, this generally works well, particularly if the Pyr is to be desexed. Pyrs can play a bit differently to some other breeds, and this can be frustrating for some dogs. My Dalmatian hated playing with the Pyrs when they got into 'Pyr play' mode as it tends to be full of wrestling, body slams, and lots of mouth and teeth action. A bit like one team playing Rugby while the other is playing AFL!

[EUZKADI PYRS]

1. What is my relationship with the breed? (ie breeder, first time owner etc)

Owner, Exhibitor and Breeder for 15 years

2. Where and why was the breed first developed?

The Pyrenean Mountain Dog's ancestry can be traced back to the Bronze Age, around 1800 -100 BC. This makes it one of the oldest of all dog breeds. The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is thought to be a direct descendant of the Tibetan Mastiff brought to the Pyrenees Mountains (located between France and Spain) by nomadic Asian tribesmen. They come from a group of dogs called Molossers - breeds of heavy build and steady temperament and are therefore also related to several other large white European Livestock guardian dogs, including the Italian Maremma Sheepdog, and the Hungarian Kuvasz. Pyreneans tend to be more substantial in overall size than the latter breeds: Pictured at the bottom of this post are some wonderful examples of the breed. From Left to Right, the dog in the first two photos is the only Pyr in the history of the breed to win the Working Group at the prestigous Westminster Dog Show, the 3rd is the top-winning Pyrenean of All-time in Canada, and (Right) the top-winning Pyrenean in the History of the breed worldwide* (*Best in Show wins)

For centuries, the Pyrenean was bred by and worked in the Pyrenees Mountains for Basque shepherds - protecting their flocks from large predators such as wolves and bears. Because of its ancestry the Pyrenean Mountain Dog is classed as a 'flock-guard breed', as opposed to a 'flock-herding breed', and this difference is quite an important element in their personality even today

3. How common is it in Australia?

They are relatively uncommon in Australia. Today, there are only a handful of people breeding these wonderful dogs. A few of the long-time breeders with a great deal of knowledge have sadly retired.

4. What is the average lifespan?

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

5. What is the general temperament/personality?

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, Pyreneans have a mind of their own and are not easily obedience trained. So if you require a dog that will instantly follow your commands, run off-leash, and compete as an obedience dog, this breed 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.

6. How much daily exercise is needed for the average adult?

Historically, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog was bred for livestock guarding on the steep mountain slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains. The nature of this role was that they required only short bursts of speed and agility with long periods of just resting and guarding flocks of sheep.

Their modern lifestyle has afforded them a luxurious amount of sleep, with just few hours allocated for play and property patrol.

Average daily exercise regimen (Adult dogs): 15-30 min walk each day (or two)

7. Is it a breed that a first time dog owner could easily cope with?

Pyrenean Mountain Dogs were bred to be independent and have a strong and positive character, and while they are placid and good-natured, they require early training as well as consistent handling to ensure they understand they are not 'pack leader' within the family structure.

8. Can solo dogs of this breed easily occupy themselves for long periods?

On-going communication with our puppy buyers tells us that young dogs with a canine companion tend to be less bored and destructive. However a dog that is adequately exercised and socialised is usually happy to be on his or her own. Similarly, Pyreneans guarding livestock are generally well occupied and are happy to be by themselves for long periods during the day. But we all appreciate a friend in our lives! :D

9. How much grooming is required?

A correct coat consists of a thick, coarse outer coat combined with a fine-knit undercoat. Dogs with long swishy coats are incorrect, as they will matt easily and are not conducive to a working dog's lifestyle.

Pyreneans, like most breeds, generally moult every 6-12 months. Their coats require a brush once every week (or two), in addition to a bath, a pedicure* and thorough groom every 3-6 months. (*Particularly the single dewclaws on the fore feet, an double-dewclaws on the hind feet)

10. Is it too boisterous for very small children or for infirm people (unless the dog is well trained)?

Pyreneans are particularly good with small children and other animals and have been lovingly branded 'Gentle Giants'. We have a number of families with small children or wheelchair-bound family members who own Pyrenean Mountain Dogs. Our dogs also feature at various community functions for the Ronald McDonald Children's Cancer House and also have made regular visits to nursing homes as pet therapy dogs. Adults tend to be less boisterous, so if this is of particular concern, a re-homed Adult dog may be worthwhile considering.

11. Are there any common hereditary problems a puppy buyer should be aware of?

They are quite low-risk when it comes to hip and elbow dysplasia - unlike many other giant breeds. On the American Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals website http://www.offa.org/, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs (or Great Pyrenees as they are called in the US) are ranked:

#97 out of 153 breeds for hip dysplasia (2nd lowest for giant breed dogs)

#80 out of 95 breeds for elbow dysplasia (lowest for giant breed dogs)

#75 out of 87 breeds for patella luxation (3rd lowest for giant breed dogs)

#47 out of 81 for thyroid problems (3rd lowest for giant breed dogs)

Historically, the most common issue within the breed in my opinion has been hypothyroidism, and issues with the patellas (which can also have a flow-on effect for the hip capsule so this can lead to some secondary hip dysplasia). Thyroid levels are easily assessed via a blood test, and a trained veterinarian can assess patellas. No breeder can ever tell you that a puppy will be free from any hereditary disorder. The fact is that although hip / elbow scoring can assist in a breeding program, 2 dysplasia-free dogs can still produce a puppy with dysplasia. So while you may ask for hip scoring results from the puppy's parents, this will never guarantee you a healthy animal.

We always tell puppy buyers that the most important thing they can do to minimise joint issues in their growing pups is to prohibit them from jumping from high steps or playing on slippery surfaces. Additionally, a giant breed dog that is overweight at any point during its life puts them at risk of osteoarthritis later in life.

12. When buying a puppy, what are the things you should ask of the breeder? (Eg what health tests have been done (if applicable) and what is an acceptable result to those tests so the buyer has an idea of what the result should be)

It is best to try to buy locally from a registered breeder who is also affiliated with a recognized breed club and the state canine authority. This will assist to distinguish between reputable dog breeders, and those that are not.

Reputable breeders are usually candid about their breeding program - in particular, common health problems and general issues regarding the breed. Ask the breeder what types of problems they have encountered in their breeding program. You should also ask the breeder what type of after-sale service they offer. Ideally, you want to buy a puppy from a breeder who is willing to share their advice freely for the life of your dog. You may like to ask the breeder what kind of health guarantees they offer should a hereditary disease present itself after the dog has been sold.

A good quality dog is worth the time required to research and evaluate both the breed and the breeders you are considering. Take time out to visit a local dog show - this can be a great way to see a variety of breeds, meet a breeder or two, and examine the overall health, soundness and temperament of their dogs.

You will find that most reputable breeders will require that you reserve puppies in advance since their animals are in high demand.

Edited August 31, 2009 by EUZKADI PYRS

[espinay2]

A link to a good video which helps explain typical Pyrenean behaviour: http://www.youtube.c...d&v=67ObjymUif8

As a lot of this behaviour is instinctive it can be apparent in pets as well as those working with livestock.

Also an article on Pyr temperament: http://www.lgd.org/library/temperament.htm

Edited September 25, 2012 by espinay2

[eyeopener]

A link to a good video which helps explain typical Pyrenean behaviour: http://www.youtube.c...d&v=67ObjymUif8

As a lot of this behaviour is instinctive it can be apparent in pets as well as those working with livestock.

Also an article on Pyr temperament: http://www.lgd.org/library/temperament.htm

what is the difference between a Pyrenean Mountain Dog & a Pyrenean Mastiff? I have a bit of experience with several guardian breeds mainly maremmas, tibetan mastiffs n Anatolian are the Pry's similar in temperament & behaviorism?

[espinay2]

For the most part, a Pyrenean Mastiff is a much heavier boned, heaver set, and Mastiff-like (molossoid) breed than the Pyrenean Mountain Dog which is 'lupo-molossoid'. Pyrenean Mastiffs tend to be a les prolific breed than the Mountain Dogs and certainly in France at the Nationale d'Elevage (Pyrenean breeds specialty held in the Pyrenees mountains every year) there are less of them shown. You can see the difference between the two in the attached photo (PMD on left (2yo bitch) and Pyr Mastiff (about 14mths male) on right) and also on the RACP (French breed club) site here: http://www.chiens-de...com/Acceuil.htm

Pyrs in temperament can vary, but are generally considered the less 'sharp' of the LGD breeds. While needing a good leader, a Pyr of good temperament who is well socialised is for the most part easy to handle off territory and social with other dogs. For the most part they accept what you introduce as belonging on their property including other dogs. They are a breed inclined to use 'appropriate force' which means if barking keeps the flock safe that is all they do (they bark to warn predators to stay away, perhaps being the most prone to barking of the LGD breeds). If issuing a warning sees the predator go away, they won't do more. They will generally only kill a predator if the predator persists and makes it necessary. If the predator runs away, they will generally stop the chase rather than pursuing. Pyrs are perhps one of the breeds best suited to a 'family farm dog' situation where there are people coming and going through the dogs territory as they tend to be quite discriminate once taught what is to be guarded against and what isn't. They are known to be good with children and small animals and generally quite tolerant of them.

[eyeopener]

Wow similar to how my TM's work then although they do boundary patrols while the maremma stays with the flock. Can take my TMs to town but not the maremma so much. Is there anyone breeding the pry mastiffs in Australia?

[espinay2]

Wow similar to how my TM's work then although they do boundary patrols while the maremma stays with the flock. Can take my TMs to town but not the maremma so much. Is there anyone breeding the pry mastiffs in Australia?

Pyrs will do both boundary patrols and stay with the flock depending on setup and dog/stock numbers. Boundary patrolling is something you will commonly see even in pets. Pyrs tend to be not quite as standoffish as most of the Tibetan mastiffs I know.

No one breeding PMs at the moment. There are a few here and a few litters were bred but to my knowdge that breeder is not breeding them any more and no one else has picked up the ball. We will need more to be imported before that happens.

Edited October 13, 2012 by espinay2

[espinay2]

Here is a link to a video of the 2012 Nationale d'Elevage in Argeles-Gazost.

Theis is the annual Pyrenean specialty held in France in the Pyrenees Mountains

Some lovely examples of Pyreneans shown:

[espinay2]

An excellent video of dogs at some kennels in France and the 2012 Pyrenean Nationale d'Elevage, also in France: