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This breed originated in the Pyrenees Mountains on the borders of France and Spain. The
Pyr, as it is often called is a very large and gentle dog who is very devoted to its family,
stock and territory. However, the Pyr is somewhat cautious around strangers, both human
and canine. These dogs are very independent and sometimes stubborn, but are usually very
calm, well-mannered, and loving.

The Great Pyrenees are called gentle giants for a good reason; the females tend to weigh
between 85-100 lbs. with a height of 25"-29", while most males weigh in around 100-125
lbs. and stand tall at 27"-29". They have a very graceful and majestic presence, but their
size is intimidating to prowlers and predators. Both agile and graceful, Pyrs have a look of
confidence and intelligence about them. This breed possesses an amazingly
weather-resistant and self-cleaning coat which protects them from the elements while
cutting down on laborious grooming.

The Pyr is a wonderful guard dog that will protect anything it is raised with instinctively
and without rigorous training. While on duty, the Pyr's first line of defense is perimeter
scent-marking, and constant perimeter walking. The next technique employed by the Pyr
is a very low, rumbling bark, proclaiming its presence. The bark of a Pyr is unique in that it
is not annoying or distracting, in fact, some owners find it to be a very comforting sound.
If and when perimeter walking/marking and barking have failed and an intruder invades
the dogs territory, the final line of defense is to chase.