These dogs take their name from the mountain range in southwestern Europe where they have long been used as guardians of the flocks.  In the United States they are called Great Pyrenees, while in the United Kingdom and on the continent of Europe, they are known as the Pyrenees Mountain Dog.  In their native France ,they are Le Chien de Montagne des Pyrenees or Le Chien des Pyrenees.  Whatever the name, it is a beautiful white dog with a "certain elegance" which for centries has been the working associate of peasant shepards high on the mountain slopes. 

The Pyrenees is a large breed with the males having a desired minimum height of 28 in. and 110 lbs., the bitches 26 ins. and 90 lbs..

They are either all white or mostly white with  badger markings in wolf-grey or pale yellow.  Patches of color are permissible on head, ears or base of the tail and a few on the body.  Nose, eyerims and lips should be black.

Pyrenees have a thick double coat which protects them from predators and weather extremes.  Despite the breed's full coat, it can be reasonably comforable in a variety of climates.  Grooming is surprisingly not as difficult as one might think.  Brushing your Pyr about 30 mins. once or twice a week will keep matting under control depending upon how heavy your Pyrs coat is.   We bathe our Pyrs in the summer months.

These dogs are gentle giants that are very loving and protective towards their human family and herd alike.