French Pyrenee Mastiff

General: The Great Pyrenees dog gives a impression of elegance and beauty combined with great overall size and majesty. He has a white or principally white coat that may contain markings of badger, gray, or varying shades of tan. He possesses a keen intelligence and a kindly, while regal, expression. Exhibiting a unique elegance of bearing and movement, his soundness and coordination show unmistakably the purpose for which he has been bred, the strenuous work of guarding the flocks in all kinds of weather on the steep mountain slopes of the Pyrenees.

Origin: Pyrenees Mountains of France.

History: The breed is of French royalty and nobility and working associate of the peasant shepherds high on the slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains. His remains are found in the fossil deposits of the Bronze Age, which roughly dates his appearance in Europe between 1800 and 1000 BC, although it is believed that he came originally from Central Asia or Siberia and followed the migration into Europe. It was in the isolation of the lonely mountain pastures that the Pyrenean Mountain Dog developed his inherent traits of devotion, fidelity, sense of guardianship, and intelligent understanding of mankind. Here, in the days when packs of wild animals roamed the mountain slopes freely, he was the official guardian of the flocks. With the dogs' ability to scent and keen sight he was an invaluable companion of the shepherd.

Temperament: The Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle, and affectionate. While territorial and protective of his flock or family when necessary, his general attitude is one of quiet composure, both patient and tolerant. He is strong willed, independent and somewhat reserved, yet attentive, fearless and loyal to his charges both human and animal.

Size: 80-100 pounds.

Today's Uses: Some Pyrenees are pets and show dogs but many are still found as flock guards. A Pyrenees was used in the beginning of modern competitive weight pull when one owner challenged a owner of a St. Bernard over who's dog was stronger.

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