THE PYRENEAN MOUNTAIN DOG.
Known in America as the Great Pyrenees and in France as Le Grand Chien de Montagnes des Pyrenees invariably inspires any number of superlative comments. The majestic beauty, dignity, regal bearing and aura of self-confidence which are characteristic of the breed make a lasting impression on the viewer. However, only after one has come to know the Pyrenean Mountain Dog and its unique history does it become apparent that the breed's true and greatest value is not beauty, but the admirable and unique character of the dog.
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is a native of the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. The breed's association with man dates back many centuries, with the physical and mental characteristics of the Pyrenean Mountain Dog remaining virtually unchanged down through the years. Just as it did in the 16th century, so today the Pyrenean Mountain Dog guards the sheep high on the mountain slopes.These dogs were also used to smuggle contraband over the border between France and Spain as their sure-footedness enabled them to use passes that were impossible for humans, thereby avoiding detection by custom officials. Early in the 20th century, however, the breed was scarce and Bernard Senac-Langrange and M Dretzen can both be credited for saving the breed. To this day, the breed works in France guarding their flocks of sheep and herds of cattle from bears, wolves and other stock thieves.
In the 17th century, Louis XIV made the strikingly beautiful Mountain Dog the official dog of the French Court. Certainly it takes very little imagination to look at a Pyrenean Mountain Dog in your home and envision it patrolling the pre-Revolutionary chateaux of France and consorting with the lords and ladies of the Court. That the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has always appealed to royalty is illustrated by the fact that both Queen Marie Antoinette and Queen Victoria favoured and owned them.
In 1662, dogs were carried to Newfoundland by Basque fishermen as companions and guardians of the new Settlement. Here it was they became mated with the black curly coated retriever, favorite of the English settlers. This cross resulted in the formation of the Landseer (black and white) Newfoundland. In 1824, General Lafayette introduced the first pair to America by bringing over two males to his friend, J.S. Skinner, author of "The Dog and the Sportsman".

In 1850,Britain's Queen Victoria owned a Pyrenean Mountain Dog, and in 1885-86, the first Pyrenean Mountain Dogs were registered with the Kennel Club in London and shown at the Crystal Palace.
He is a substantial, impressive-looking dog, hardy and healthy. Once used as a guard dog, protecting flocks against wolves, he has a very gentle side to his nature and is affectionate and tolerant with children, making him a popular house pet. One of the largest breeds, he does not reach full maturity until he is three or four years old.
His thick, double coat needs grooming thoroughly at least once a week. He is not tremendously active; a short walk in town, or a long ramble in the country will suit him equally well.

They are naturally lazy, and enjoy nothing better than laying down to watch the ‘World go by’ but, when they have to, can move at great pace. They will take as much or as little exercise as given and eat less than you would think when considering their great size.
It is our experience that, despite how well trained in a confined secure space, when allowed to run free outside their independent nature will come to the fore and they will set off to explore. It seems this urge sets in at around 8 months and never leaves them. Once we see this trait develop they are never left off lead outside of a secure environment.
When walking a Pyrenean, be prepared for plenty of interruptions as passing people have to stop to make a fuss of them... especially children.
They can be very vocal, so understanding neighbours are a must.
Their coat is dense, so expect housefuls of hair. Be prepared for plenty of grooming to keep them clean and knot free.
Most of all Pyreneans are their own larger than life characters, that will consume your life, offering loyalty and devotion in return for the love you give them