Great Pyrenees are large, majestic dogs with a history of protecting flocks of sheep. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and independent nature. If you’re considering bringing home a Great Pyrenees, either as a puppy or a rescue, there are a few things you should know to ensure a successful transition. Here are 12 things to consider before bringing home a new Great Pyrenees.
1. Great Pyrenees are big dogs
Great Pyrenees are a large breed, weighing between 80 and 120 pounds and standing between 25 and 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Before bringing a Great Pyrenees into your home, make sure you have enough space to accommodate their size.
2. Great Pyrenees have a thick coat
Great Pyrenees have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep their coat healthy. Be prepared to brush your Great Pyrenees frequently and provide regular baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.
3. Great Pyrenees are independent thinkers
Great Pyrenees were bred to protect livestock, which means they have a strong independent streak. This can make them challenging to train and may require extra patience and persistence on your part.
4. Great Pyrenees are great with children
Great Pyrenees are gentle giants and are known for their love of children. If you have kids, a Great Pyrenees can be a wonderful addition to your family.
5. Great Pyrenees require socialization
Great Pyrenees are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers. It’s important to socialize your Great Pyrenees early and often to prevent them from becoming overly protective or aggressive towards strangers.
6. Great Pyrenees need exercise
Despite their large size, Great Pyrenees don’t need a lot of exercise. However, they do need daily walks and playtime to keep them healthy and happy.
7. Great Pyrenees need a job
Great Pyrenees were bred to protect livestock and thrive when they have a job to do. If you’re not using your Great Pyrenees to guard your flock, consider providing them with other jobs like obedience training or agility courses.
8. Great Pyrenees are prone to health problems
Like all purebred dogs, Great Pyrenees are prone to certain health problems. Before bringing a Great Pyrenees into your home, make sure you’re prepared to manage any health issues that may arise. It’s also a good idea to look into pet insurance to help cover any unexpected veterinary expenses.
9. Great Pyrenees need early training
Early training is important for all dogs, but it’s especially important for Great Pyrenees. They can be challenging to train, and early training can help prevent behavior problems down the line.
10. Great Pyrenees can be stubborn
Great Pyrenees can be stubborn and may require extra patience and persistence during training. It’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on to ensure your Great Pyrenees respects your authority.
11. Great Pyrenees are loyal
Great Pyrenees are incredibly loyal to their families and can be protective of their loved ones. This loyalty can be a double-edged sword, as it can also make them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. If you’re planning to be away from home for extended periods, make sure your Great Pyrenees has a companion or a safe space to retreat to.
12. Great Pyrenees may not be the right fit for everyone
While Great Pyrenees can be wonderful pets, they may not be the right fit for every family. If you live in a small apartment or don’t have enough space for a large dog, a Great Pyrenees may not be the right fit. Additionally, if you’re not prepared to provide the time and attention needed to care for a large dog, a Great Pyrenees may not be the right choice for you.
13. Make Sure These Products Are On Your Shopping List!
Bringing home a new Great Pyrenees can be overwhelming, so we compiled a comprehensive list of every product you’ll need for your new Great Pyrenees here.
Looking into pet insurance
As mentioned earlier, Great Pyrenees are prone to certain health issues, and unexpected veterinary expenses can add up quickly. To protect yourself from these costs, it’s a good idea to look into pet insurance. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary care, medications, and other medical expenses, giving you peace of mind knowing that your pet is covered in case of an emergency.
Tip: This free tool lets you compare pet insurance prices across all the major carriers.
Looking into dog training
Training a Great Pyrenees can be challenging, but it’s important to ensure that your dog is well-behaved and safe around others. Consider enrolling your Great Pyrenees in a training program to help them learn basic obedience commands and socialization skills. This will not only help keep them safe, but it will also help strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Check out the Best 7 Online Dog Training Programs here.
FAQ for first-time Great Pyrenees owners
Q: Are Great Pyrenees good with other pets?
A: Great Pyrenees can be good with other pets if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, their natural instinct to protect their flock may make them wary of other animals.
Q: How much exercise does a Great Pyrenees need?
A: Great Pyrenees don’t need a lot of exercise, but they do need daily walks and playtime to keep them healthy and happy.
Q: Are Great Pyrenees good with children?
A: Yes, Great Pyrenees are known for their love of children and can be a great addition to a family with kids.
Q: Do Great Pyrenees shed a lot?
A: Yes, Great Pyrenees have a thick double coat and shed heavily, especially during shedding season.
Q: Do Great Pyrenees bark a lot?
A: Great Pyrenees are naturally protective and may bark frequently to alert their owners of potential threats. However, proper training can help minimize excessive barking.
Q: Are Great Pyrenees easy to train?
A: Great Pyrenees can be challenging to train due to their independent nature and stubbornness. However, early training and consistency can help ensure success.
Q: Do Great Pyrenees make good apartment pets?
A: Great Pyrenees are a large breed and may not be the best fit for small apartments or homes without enough space to accommodate their size.
Q: How long do Great Pyrenees typically live?
A: Great Pyrenees have a lifespan of around 10-12 years, but proper care and attention can help extend their lifespan.
Q: Are Great Pyrenees good guard dogs?
A: Great Pyrenees are natural guardians and can make great guard dogs, but they require proper training and socialization to ensure that their protective instincts are directed appropriately.
Q: Do Great Pyrenees require a lot of grooming?
A: Yes, Great Pyrenees have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Q: Are Great Pyrenees prone to health problems?
A: Yes, Great Pyrenees are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and skin allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these issues.
Q: Can Great Pyrenees be left alone for long periods?
A: Great Pyrenees can become anxious and destructive if left alone for long periods. If you must leave your Great Pyrenees alone, make sure they have a safe space to retreat to and consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to break up their alone time.
Conclusion
Bringing a Great Pyrenees into your home can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to understand their unique needs and characteristics to ensure that you’re prepared to provide the care and attention they require. With proper care and training, a Great Pyrenees can be a loyal and loving companion for years to come.
Arlene Divina
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