Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

Named after the famous Pyrenees Mountains in southwestern Europe, the majestic Great Pyrenees is best known as a faithful guardian of livestock. Although affectionate with his family, the breed can be territorial, aggressive toward other dogs and reserved with strangers. The Great Pyrenees requires moderate exercise and a considerable amount of grooming for his thick double coat that sheds year-round.

DID YOU KNOW? Helen Keller is credited with bringing the first Akita to the U.S., having received a puppy from the Ministry of Education during a visit to Japan in 1937.

ALSO KNOWN AS: Akita Inu, Japanese Akita, American Akita

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for owners with some experience
  • Some training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking half an hour a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog

Pet Card

  • Living Considerations: Good with children, not hypoallergenic, not suitable for apartment living
  • Size: Large/Giant
  • Height: Males 69 to 81 centimetres at the withers, Females – 63.5 to 73.5 centimetres at the withers
  • Weight: Males – 45 to 59 kilograms, Females – 38.5 to 54 kilograms
  • Coat: Medium-long
  • Energy: Medium
  • Colour: White or white with markings that are gray, badger, reddish brown, or tan
  • Activities: Herding, Guarding, Therapy, Carting, Conformation
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor

Finding a dog

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Finding a good breeder
If your heart is set on a pedigree puppy, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. Find out what to look for in a puppy breeder with this guide.
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Welcoming your dog home
While you're waiting for the big day you may need to distract yourself, so luckily there are a few things you need to sort our before you welcome your new arrival.
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Adoption
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Puppy advice
Everything you need to know
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Benefits of having a dog
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