How to Identify a Great Pyrenees: A Comprehensive Guide
The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is a majestic and imposing breed renowned for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. Originating from the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain, these dogs were historically used to guard livestock, and their inherent guarding instincts remain strong today. If you’re considering bringing a Great Pyrenees into your family or simply want to identify one you’ve encountered, this comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed steps and instructions to help you accurately recognize this magnificent breed.
## Understanding the Great Pyrenees: A Breed Overview
Before diving into the specifics of identification, it’s essential to understand the general characteristics that define the Great Pyrenees. These dogs are large, powerfully built, and possess a thick, weather-resistant coat. Their gentle and patient demeanor belies their ability to protect their flock or family fiercely. Here’s a quick overview:
* **Size:** Males typically stand 27-32 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 100-160 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, ranging from 25-29 inches and weighing 85-115 pounds.
* **Coat:** A double coat, with a long, thick, and often slightly wavy outer coat and a dense, woolly undercoat. The color is typically white or predominantly white with markings of badger, gray, or reddish-brown.
* **Temperament:** Known for their calm, patient, and affectionate nature. They are intelligent and independent thinkers, which can sometimes make training a challenge. They are naturally protective and wary of strangers.
* **Lifespan:** Generally live between 10 and 12 years.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Identifying a Great Pyrenees
Now, let’s break down the identification process into specific steps, covering various physical and behavioral characteristics. This will help you build a strong understanding of the breed’s unique features.
### 1. Assess the Size and Build
The first and most obvious characteristic is their significant size. Great Pyrenees are large dogs, falling squarely into the giant breed category. Compare their size to other breeds you may be familiar with.
* **Height:** Use a measuring tape or estimate their height at the withers (the highest point of their shoulder blades). As mentioned earlier, males should be 27-32 inches and females 25-29 inches.
* **Weight:** While it’s difficult to accurately estimate weight without scales, observe their overall build. Great Pyrenees have a solid, muscular frame, not overly thin or excessively bulky.
* **Body Proportions:** Look for a rectangular body shape, where the length of the body is slightly longer than the height at the withers. They should appear well-balanced and proportionate.
**Distinguishing from Similar Breeds:**
* **Anatolian Shepherd:** Similar in size, but often have shorter, tan-colored coats and a more muscular build.
* **Kuvasz:** Also white, but typically have a shorter, denser, and less wavy coat than the Great Pyrenees. Their head shape is also slightly different.
* **Maremma Sheepdog:** Similar in appearance, but generally smaller and lighter in build than the Great Pyrenees. The Maremma also tends to have a coarser coat.
### 2. Examine the Coat Characteristics
The coat is one of the most distinctive features of the Great Pyrenees. Pay close attention to its length, texture, and color.
* **Length:** The outer coat should be long, typically 2-4 inches in length, covering most of the body.
* **Texture:** The outer coat is generally coarse and may be slightly wavy. The undercoat should be thick, dense, and woolly, providing insulation against cold weather.
* **Color:** The most common color is white. However, they can also have markings of badger (a mix of brown and black), gray, or reddish-brown. These markings are typically found on the head, ears, and sometimes the body.
* **Double Coat:** To confirm it’s a double coat, gently separate the outer coat to reveal the dense, woolly undercoat beneath. This is a crucial characteristic of the breed.
**Distinguishing from Similar Breeds:**
* **Samoyed:** Similar white coat, but the Samoyed’s coat is typically softer and fluffier, lacking the coarse texture of the Great Pyrenees. They also have a characteristic ‘Samoyed smile’.
* **White Swiss Shepherd Dog:** Generally has a shorter, less dense coat than the Great Pyrenees. They also have a more athletic build.
### 3. Observe the Head and Facial Features
The head and facial features provide further clues to identifying a Great Pyrenees.
* **Head Shape:** The head should be wedge-shaped, broad, and slightly rounded between the ears. The muzzle should be approximately the same length as the skull.
* **Ears:** The ears are triangular, medium-sized, and set on at eye level. They should be carried close to the head and have rounded tips. When the dog is alert, the ears may be slightly raised.
* **Eyes:** The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark brown in color. They should have a gentle and intelligent expression.
* **Nose:** The nose should be black and well-pigmented.
* **Lips:** The lips should be tight-fitting, with black pigmentation.
* **Bite:** A scissor bite is preferred, where the upper incisors slightly overlap the lower incisors. A level bite is also acceptable.
**Distinguishing from Similar Breeds:**
* **Great White Shepherd (Berger Blanc Suisse):** Have more pointed ears and a slightly different head shape. The overall appearance is also somewhat more refined.
* **Akbash Dog:** The Akbash often has a narrower head and a less dense coat than the Great Pyrenees.
### 4. Pay Attention to the Tail
The tail is another important feature to consider when identifying a Great Pyrenees.
* **Length:** The tail should be long, reaching at least to the hocks (the joint equivalent to the ankle in humans).
* **Carriage:** When the dog is at rest, the tail hangs down. When the dog is alert or moving, the tail may be carried over the back, forming a plume. However, it should not be curled tightly over the back.
* **Plume:** The tail is typically well-feathered with long hair, creating a plume-like appearance.
**Distinguishing from Similar Breeds:**
* **Other livestock guardian breeds:** Some breeds may have docked tails, which is not typical for the Great Pyrenees. Also, the way the tail is carried can differ slightly between breeds.
### 5. Analyze the Gait and Movement
The way a dog moves can provide valuable information about its breed. Observe the Great Pyrenees’ gait and overall movement.
* **Gait:** The Great Pyrenees should have a smooth, effortless gait. They are built for endurance rather than speed. Their movement should be powerful and coordinated.
* **Reach and Drive:** Look for good reach in the front and good drive in the rear. This indicates efficient and balanced movement.
* **Overall Impression:** The overall impression should be one of strength, grace, and stamina.
### 6. Consider Temperament and Behavior
While physical characteristics are crucial, temperament and behavior also play a significant role in identifying a Great Pyrenees. Remember that individual personalities can vary, but certain traits are common to the breed.
* **Calm and Patient:** Great Pyrenees are generally calm and patient dogs, especially with their family and livestock. They are not typically hyperactive or overly excitable.
* **Protective Instincts:** They have strong protective instincts and are naturally wary of strangers. They may bark to alert their family to potential threats.
* **Independent Thinkers:** Great Pyrenees are intelligent but also independent thinkers. This can sometimes make training a challenge, requiring patience and consistency.
* **Affectionate with Family:** They are typically affectionate with their family and enjoy spending time with them. However, they may not be overly demonstrative in their affection.
* **Livestock Guardian:** If you observe a Great Pyrenees interacting with livestock, pay attention to their behavior. They should exhibit a calm and protective demeanor, gently guiding and guarding the animals.
**Important Note:** It’s crucial to remember that temperament can be influenced by genetics, socialization, and training. A poorly socialized or trained Great Pyrenees may exhibit undesirable behaviors, regardless of its breed characteristics.
### 7. Look for Double Dewclaws on the Rear Legs
This is a very specific and telling characteristic. Great Pyrenees *must* have double dewclaws on their rear legs. Dewclaws are extra toes that do not reach the ground. Most breeds that have dewclaws only have them on the front legs, and only single dewclaws. The Great Pyrenees has two on each rear leg.
* **Location:** Look on the inside of the rear legs, above the paw.
* **Number:** There should be two distinct dewclaws on each leg.
* **Structure:** The dewclaws should be well-formed and attached to the leg.
**This is one of the most reliable indicators of a purebred Great Pyrenees.**
## Potential Challenges in Identification
While this guide provides comprehensive steps, there are potential challenges to consider when identifying a Great Pyrenees.
* **Mix-Breeds:** The dog may be a mix of Great Pyrenees and another breed, which can alter its physical characteristics and temperament. In such cases, it may be difficult to definitively identify it as a purebred Great Pyrenees.
* **Age:** Puppies may not exhibit all the characteristic features of the breed until they reach adulthood. Their coat may be shorter and less dense, and their temperament may be more playful and less reserved.
* **Grooming:** A poorly groomed Great Pyrenees may not display its coat to its full advantage. Matted or unkempt fur can obscure its texture and length.
* **Regional Variations:** While breed standards exist, there may be slight regional variations in appearance within the breed.
## Tips for Accurate Identification
To increase your chances of accurate identification, consider the following tips:
* **Observe the Dog in Different Situations:** Observe the dog in various settings and interacting with different people and animals. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of its temperament and behavior.
* **Consult with Breed Experts:** If you’re unsure about a dog’s breed, consult with experienced breeders, veterinarians, or breed-specific rescue organizations. They can offer valuable insights and assistance.
* **Review Breed Standards:** Familiarize yourself with the official breed standard for the Great Pyrenees, as defined by reputable kennel clubs. This will provide a detailed description of the ideal characteristics of the breed.
* **Consider DNA Testing:** If you’re still uncertain after considering all other factors, DNA testing can provide definitive confirmation of a dog’s breed composition.
## Conclusion
Identifying a Great Pyrenees involves careful observation of its physical characteristics, temperament, and behavior. By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering the potential challenges, you can significantly improve your ability to accurately recognize this magnificent breed. Remember to consider the overall picture, rather than relying solely on one or two features. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll become more confident in your ability to identify a Great Pyrenees and appreciate its unique qualities.