Old Great Pyrenees: Temperament, Health, and Care

The Old Great Pyrenees is a gentle giant, known for its calm and patient nature. This breed has been a loyal companion to shepherds and farmers for centuries, watching over their flocks with a keen eye.

They can grow up to 32 inches tall and weigh between 85 and 115 pounds, making them a substantial presence in any household. Their thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.

Their calm demeanor makes them an excellent choice for families with children, as they are patient and gentle with kids. They are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, requiring daily walks but not excessive running or playtime.

They're naturally protective of their family members, having been bred to guard sheep flocks with their lives. This instinct is still strong in them today.

Great Pyrenees are confident and independent dogs, yet they're also gentle and affectionate with their human and animal companions. They make great family pets.

Their strong-willed personalities can sometimes be challenging to manage, but with consistent training and socialization, they can learn to be well-behaved members of the family. They're intelligent dogs that thrive on structure and clear boundaries.

Despite their reserved nature in certain situations, Great Pyrenees are always attentive and loyal companions. They don't give in to fear and will stand their ground when necessary.

They have a slow metabolism, which means they don't eat as much as other giant dogs.

You'll be happy to know that Great Pyrenees dogs don't poop as big as you might think either.

Great Pyrenees dogs have a gentle mouth, which makes them a great choice for families with kids.

It's lovely to watch them take food from your hands, but they can be a bit finicky, so be prepared to put treats in their bowl if they're not in the mood.

Their slow metabolism also means they don't require as much exercise as other large breed dogs.

As you consider bringing an old Great Pyrenees into your life, it's essential to understand the potential health concerns that come with this breed. Generally, Great Pyrenees are a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain conditions.

Neurological disorders are a concern for Great Pyrenees, and some dogs may experience hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and mobility issues. Hip dysplasia is a medium-risk condition that can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat.

Luxating patella, also known as patellar luxation, is another potential issue, where the kneecap slips out of place. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Reputable breeders prioritize the health of their dogs and often undergo testing to identify potential genetic disorders. The Great Pyrenees Club of America encourages breeders to be transparent about the health of their dogs and to publish test results in the Canine Health Information Center database.

For another approach, see: Hip Dysplasia Great Pyrenees

Here are some common health issues that can affect Great Pyrenees:

It's essential to work with a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs and has undergone recommended screenings. By doing your research and understanding the potential health concerns, you can provide the best possible care for your old Great Pyrenees.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Great Pyrenees Common Health Problems

The Great Pyrenees is an ancient breed with a rich history. They originated in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain over 2,000 years ago.

Their original purpose was to guard sheep and other livestock from predators like wolves, bears, and even humans. They were highly valued for their bravery and loyalty.

One of the most interesting facts about the Great Pyrenees is that they have a unique genetic trait that allows them to thrive in high-altitude environments. This is likely due to their adaptation to the harsh mountain climate of their native Pyrenees region.

Their thick double coat of fur is made up of a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat, which helps to protect them from the elements. This coat is one of their most distinctive features.

The Great Pyrenees is a large breed, with males weighing up to 120 pounds and standing as tall as 32 inches at the shoulder.

Check this out: Great Pyrenees Coat Colors

Old Great Pyrenees are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a great fit for families with children.

They are naturally protective of their family and territory, but they are not aggressive unless provoked.

Great Pyrenees are independent dogs and don't require constant attention, but they do enjoy spending time with their family.

They are intelligent and can be trained with positive reinforcement, but they can be stubborn at times.

Old Great Pyrenees are prone to drooling and slobbering, especially after eating or drinking.

They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, requiring regular grooming and brushing.

Check this out: 3 Week Old Great Pyrenees Puppy

Great Pyrenees are generally quiet and don't bark much, but they will alert you to any potential threats.

They are natural herders and may try to herd children or other pets if not properly trained.

Old Great Pyrenees are relatively slow-matured and may not reach their full size until they are two to three years old.

Take a look at this: Old English Mastiff Dog

Dogs have a slow metabolism rate, which means they don't burn calories quickly. This is especially true for breeds like the Great Pyrenees, who need a denser nutritional formula to support their growth.

Their slow metabolism also makes them prone to obesity if overfed, so it's crucial to monitor their food intake carefully. Overfeeding can lead to further health problems and add pressure to their cardiac system.

A well-balanced diet is essential for Great Pyrenees, involving high-quality meats, fiber, carbohydrates, healthy omega fats, vitamins, and minerals. This will help support their growth and overall health.

It's also worth noting that Great Pyrenees will eat as much as you feed them, so it's essential to not overfeed them. They already carry enough weight, so they don't need more added to their frame.

See what others are reading: Great Pyrenees Growth Stages

Old Great Pyrenees are a gentle giant, but they do require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Aim for at least a 30-minute walk per day.

Their thick coats can make them prone to matting and tangling, so brush them at least twice a week to prevent this.

As they age, Old Great Pyrenees may develop arthritis, so gentle exercise and plenty of rest are essential to manage their condition.

If this caught your attention, see: Why Do Great Pyrenees Bark so Much

Great Pyrenees often like to bury their food, which can be a fun quirk to observe.

Nora, our Great Pyrenees, has been known to run off with a huge bone, only to bury it and remember where she put it later.

They'll even bury their entire food bowl, which can be a challenge for their owners to keep track of.

Amazingly, they always seem to remember where they buried their food, as we've seen Nora eating the bone she buried days earlier around our homestead.

Recommended read: Puppy Food for Great Pyrenees

Feeding your Pyr high-quality kibble that provides a well-balanced diet is crucial for their growth and overall health.

A well-balanced diet should involve high-quality meats, fiber, carbohydrates, healthy omega fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Overfeeding your dog can lead to obesity and create other orthopedic ailments, so it's essential to monitor their food intake.

They already carry enough weight, so they don't need more weight added to their frame.

To ensure your Pyr gets the nutrition they need, choose a denser nutritional formula that supports their growth.

This is especially true for bigger breeds like the Pyr, which need a more robust diet to stay healthy.

Explore further: Great Pyrenees Exercise Needs

The old Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Neurological disorders are a concern, and hip dysplasia is a serious condition that can affect their mobility.

Hip dysplasia is a medium-risk condition that can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat. It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs.

Luxating patella, also known as patellar luxation, is another issue that can affect the old Great Pyrenees. It's a medium-risk condition that can cost between $1,500 and $3,000 to diagnose and treat.

Bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. It's essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect bloat.

Here's a list of common health issues that can affect the old Great Pyrenees: