Great Pyrenees Male vs Female: Key Differences and Similarities

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Great Pyrenees on Snow
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The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. They were originally bred to guard sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain.

One of the most notable differences between Great Pyrenees males and females is their size. Males typically weigh between 100-120 pounds and stand 27-32 inches tall at the shoulder, while females weigh between 85-100 pounds and stand 25-29 inches tall.

Despite their size difference, both male and female Great Pyrenees are known for their gentle and even-tempered nature. They are often described as "sweet" and "laid-back", making them a great breed for families with children.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Breed Standard Great Pyrenees

Grooming

The Great Pyrenees is a stunning breed, but their grooming needs are no joke. They have a long, thick outer coat that's primarily white and somewhat coarse, with a soft, woolly white undercoat.

You'll need to brush their coat once or twice per week to keep shed hairs under control. Their coat doesn't tend to mat, but regular brushing will help prevent that.

Explore further: Great Pyrenees White

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Be prepared to see white Pyr hair on all your clothes and furniture, it's just a fact of life with this breed. Their coat naturally sheds dirt, so you won't need to bathe them too often – every couple of months should do the trick.

It's not recommended to trim or shave their coat during hot weather, as it protects them from the sun. You'll also need to trim their nails to prevent splitting, especially since they're prone to gently pawing at you to get your attention.

Regular dental care is essential to prevent gum disease. Brush their teeth at least a couple of times per week to keep them healthy.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Great Pyrenees Coat Colors

Training Differences

Training a Great Pyrenees can be a challenge due to their independent nature and need for consistency. They thrive with experienced dog trainers who use positive reinforcement techniques.

Socialization from an early age is crucial for this breed, as they are naturally suspicious of new people and environments. Without proper socialization, they may become overly protective and wary of strangers.

Great Pyrenees are generally great with children, but it's essential to supervise interactions between kids and the dog to ensure everyone's safety. Kids should also learn how to handle the dog gently and respectfully.

Health and Care

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Generally, Great Pyrenees are healthy dogs. They are prone to some joint problems due to their big size.

Purchasing from a quality breeder can help control some of these health issues.

These dogs are quite healthy and tend to be healthy like most working dogs.

Health and Care

Dogs bred by responsible breeders are less likely to inherit health conditions, but some hereditary health problems can still occur.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are common issues in this breed, which can lead to mobility problems and pain.

Responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk of these conditions.

A reputable breeder can help control some of these health issues, especially joint problems.

Some health conditions to be aware of include hip and elbow dysplasia, osteochondrosis (OCD), eye issues, Addison's disease, bloat, and patellar luxation.

Here are some specific conditions to watch out for:

  • Hip dysplasia: an abnormal formation of the hip socket
  • Elbow dysplasia: abnormal development of the elbow bones
  • Osteochondrosis (OCD): abnormal cartilage growth instead of bone
  • Eye issues: entropion, cataracts, and canine multifocal retinopathy
  • Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism): hormonal deficiency causing weight loss, lethargy, shaking, and slow heart rate
  • Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): emergency condition where the stomach twists
  • Patellar luxation: kneecap slips out of place, causing limping and unusual leg position

Purchasing from a quality breeder can help control some of these health issues.

Health Differences

Close-Up Shot of a Great Pyrenees Dog Standing on the Grass
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Adopting your Great Pyrenees from a reputable breeder reduces their risk of developing certain health problems. This is a crucial step in ensuring your dog lives a long and healthy life.

The sex of your dog can affect their health, with slight differences in anatomy between males and females.

Pros and Cons

When deciding between a Great Pyrenees male and female, you'll want to consider the pros and cons of each.

Great Pyrenees males are generally more protective of their family than females, which can be beneficial for families with small children or pets.

However, males can also be more dominant and stubborn, making training a bit more challenging.

On the other hand, females tend to be more affectionate and easier to train.

But, females may be more prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia and certain cancers, which can impact their lifespan.

Males, on the other hand, tend to live longer than females, with an average lifespan of 10-12 years compared to 9-11 years for females.

See what others are reading: Life Expectancy for Great Pyrenees

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In terms of size, males are generally larger than females, with an average weight of 120-180 pounds and a height of 27-32 inches.

Females, while smaller, are still a large breed, weighing 100-140 pounds and standing 25-29 inches tall.

Ultimately, the decision between a Great Pyrenees male and female comes down to your personal preferences and needs.

Personality and Temperament

Great Pyrenees are stable, relaxed dogs that may not like strangers very much, but they won't become aggressive unless they see signs of danger.

They're not as affectionate as some other breeds, but they'll always be happy to see you. As pet parents, we know that this can take some getting used to.

Male Great Pyrenees, especially those who haven't been neutered, can be more territorial and excitable than females and neutered males. Intact females, on the other hand, can have similar behavior tendencies when they're in heat.

Females tend to be more affectionate and love to be around the family more, while males might be a bit more independent.

Personality

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Great Pyrenees are stable, relaxed dogs. They have a natural instinct to protect their families.

They may not like strangers very much, but they won't become aggressive unless they see signs of danger.

As descendants of livestock guardians, they are prepared to defend their loved ones from any potential threat.

These dogs might not show affection in the same way as other breeds, but they will always be happy when you're around.

They have a unique way of showing love and loyalty, which can be a bit different from what you're used to.

Temperament

Great Pyrenees are stable, relaxed dogs, but they may not like strangers very much. They're naturally protective of their families and will defend them if they sense danger.

Male and female Great Pyrenees can have different temperament levels, but being spayed or neutered has a bigger impact on their behavior than their sex. Intact male Great Pyrenees tend to be more territorial and excitable than neutered males and females.

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Intact females can also exhibit territorial behavior, especially when they're in heat. This happens three or four times a year, but it's a good idea to know what to expect.

Female Great Pyrenees are often more affectionate and love to be around their families, whereas males might be a bit more independent. They're not necessarily more or less affectionate than males, it's just a different vibe.

Male Great Pyrenees tend to be more energetic and rowdy than females, especially if they're not neutered. This can be a challenge for some owners, but with patience and training, they can learn to channel their energy in a positive way.

Female Great Pyrenees have been described as being more "moody" and irritable, especially when they're not spayed and are in heat. This is something to be aware of, especially if you're considering bringing one home.

Take a look at this: When to Neuter Great Pyrenees

Choosing a Puppy

Choosing the right Great Pyrenees puppy is a crucial decision.

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Asking yourself questions mentioned earlier in this article will help you decide if a Great Pyrenees is the right dog for you.

It's essential to consider your lifestyle and living situation to determine if a Great Pyrenees will thrive in your environment.

This will also help you decide if you would like to go with a male or female puppy.

You should think about your available time and energy to devote to your new furry friend.

This will help you decide if a Great Pyrenees is a good fit for you.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to what's best for you and your family.

By asking yourself the right questions, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect Great Pyrenees puppy.

Size and Energy

The size difference between Great Pyrenees males and females is noticeable. Males tend to be a bit larger than females.

Males can grow up to 32 inches tall, while females typically reach 29 inches. This is a significant difference to consider when choosing a pet.

Females weigh around 85 pounds, while males weigh around 100 pounds and up. This means that if you're looking for a smaller Great Pyrenees, a female might be the better choice.

However, it's essential to remember that size isn't the only factor to consider.

For the Children

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For families with small children, it's essential to consider the temperament of your Great Pyrenees. Unneutered males can be too excitable and rowdy for little ones when they're playing.

In these cases, a female Great Pyrenees may be a better fit for your family. However, if you're not planning to neuter your dog, a female might be a good choice.

Neutered males and spayed females are much more similar in temperament, making either a great option for families with kids. This is because the difference in behavior is greatly reduced in these individuals.

Male vs Female

When adopting a Great Pyrenees, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to bring home a male or female. In terms of size, both males and females can be quite large, but males tend to be slightly bigger.

Males can weigh between 100 and 120 pounds, while females typically weigh between 85 and 100 pounds. Their white coats and majestic presence make them a striking addition to any family.

Dog Breed Guide

Pyrenean Mountain Dog on Field
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The Great Pyrenees is a large and majestic dog breed, with a white coat and a calm, gentle nature that makes them great family dogs. They are well worth the effort and care you'll need to put into them, but adopting one requires a lot of research and responsibility.

Originally, the Great Pyrenees was bred as a livestock guardian dog in the mountains between France and Spain. Their gentle and protective nature made them great guardians, with the stamina, energy, and will to roam large parts of the land to protect their territory.

Their large size and thick coat allowed them to withstand the cold, rugged conditions of the Pyrenees Mountains. This breed has found its way to households all over the world, where they are praised for being gentle, affectionate, loyal, and docile.

The cost of owning a Great Pyrenees is significant, with vaccines and routine care ranging from $440 to $1,785 per year. Their large size may be intimidating, but they are amazing family pets and can do wonderfully with children.

Broaden your view: Great Pyrenees Puppy Care

Spaying/Neutering Your Dog

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Spaying or neutering your dog can greatly impact their behavior and temperament. It's a crucial decision to make, especially if you're considering adopting a Great Pyrenees.

Spayed and neutered dogs tend to be calmer and less territorial. This is especially true for male dogs, who experience surges in hormones all the time.

Unspayed females tend to be easier to handle than unneutered males. This is why those who don't plan to fix their Great Pyrenees may want to consider adopting a female.

Either a male or female Great Pyrenees can make a great choice for those who want to neuter or spay their dog.

Male Overview

Male Great Pyrenees are known for being loyal and protective, just like their female counterparts.

They are calm and stoic, especially when well-socialized, but this requires proper training and socialization from an early age.

Intelligence is not a guarantee of obedience in this breed, so consistent training is essential to prevent behavioral issues.

Baby Lying by White Dog
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Males are prone to the same health problems as females, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat, due to their larger size.

Regular veterinary care and preventative measures can help reduce the risk of these health issues.

Unneutered males experience constant hormonal surges, which can make them more territorial and difficult to handle.

Spaying or neutering can greatly reduce these issues, making the dog calmer and more manageable.

Take a look at this: Hip Dysplasia Great Pyrenees

Exercise Needs

Exercise needs are a must for Great Pyrenees, regardless of gender. Both males and females are high-energy dogs that require plenty of physical activity.

Daily walks and play sessions are essential to keep your Great Pyrenean dog tired. They need to be active throughout the day, just like their working dog breed ancestors.

The amount of exercise your Great Pyrenees needs is not based on gender. Females may be calmer, but they still require the same level of physical activity as males.

A Great Pyrenees is considered tired if they're awake at night, which is a natural result of their daily exercise.

Patricia Kreiger

Writer

Patricia Kreiger is a passionate writer with a focus on canine-related topics. She has established herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice in the pet care community, with a portfolio that showcases her expertise in covering various breeds and their characteristics. Patricia's writing often delves into the intricacies of specific breeds, such as the Ridgeback and German Shepherd, as well as the complexities of breed comparisons and the FCI breed standard.

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