How Big Is A Great Pyrenees Dog?
One of the most frequent comments we get when people meet Blueberry for the first time is, “Wow, he’s big!” Or, almost as frequently, “I didn’t know you could adopt a polar bear!”
Blueberry is quite large for his breed, at about 150lbs (and still needs to lose a few pounds). But the majority of dogs in this breed are well over 100lbs.
Great Pyrenees dogs are renowned for their majestic size and serene demeanor. If you are considering adopting one of these gentle giants, understanding their physical characteristics is crucial—so you don’t end up turning the dog into a rescue because you didn’t know what you were getting yourself into.
Great Pyrenees, one of the giant breeds, are among the larger canine species. Male Great Pyrenees typically stand about 27 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 25 to 29 inches. Males often weigh between 100 to 160 pounds, and females usually tip the scales at 85 to 120 pounds. Their substantial size makes them easily recognizable and formidable in appearance.
These dogs reach their full height by approximately one year of age, but they will continue to gain weight and fill out in muscle until about two years old. The rapid growth phase in their first year demands a nutritious diet that supports bone and joint health without promoting excessive weight gain, which can lead to health issues later in life.
The size of the Great Pyrenees is not coincidental but a result of selective breeding. Originally bred to guard livestock against predators in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, their large size was crucial for intimidating wolves, bears, and other threats. The imposing presence of a Great Pyrenees is enough to deter most predators, fulfilling their role as both protector and companion to the flocks they guarded.
Owning a Great Pyrenees means accommodating their large size in various aspects of daily life. Their living environment needs to provide ample space for movement and rest, and their diet and healthcare may incur greater costs due to their size. Furthermore, potential owners should consider the physical space required for a dog of this stature, from larger beds and durable toys to suitably sized transportation options.
In addition, these larger dogs can be much more difficult to manage. Walking them, especially during training periods, can require a great deal of strength, and even when they are playful and happy, they can accidentally cause injury by pulling to hard or knocking into a person.
It is absolutely essential for Pyrenees dog owners to be comfortable handling and managing such a large sized dog. Their impressive size is not just a physical trait but a link to their historical roles as guardians, making them unique companions in the world of large breed dogs.
