All about Great Pyredane dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Great Pyredane" Breed

The Great Pyredane weight typically ranges from 100 to 150 pounds for adults. Males generally fall on the higher end of this scale, often between 120 and 150 pounds, while females usually weigh between 100 and 130 pounds. This average size reflects the healthy weight for Great Pyredane, a large and powerful hybrid.

Great Pyredane Height: What's the Average Size?

• Males tend to be on the taller end of the spectrum, often reaching 30-32 inches.
• Females may be slightly shorter, typically falling within the 28-30 inch range, but can certainly reach similar heights to males.

Great Pyredane Colors: A diverse range of Great Pyredane colors are seen due to their parent breeds. Standard coat colors often reflect the Great Pyrenees, including white, cream, and various shades of tan. You'll also find colors inherited from the Great Dane, such as fawn, brindle, and black. These are generally the most common and widely accepted Great Pyredane colors.Rare Great Pyredane coat types and exotic Great Pyredane variations can also occur, though they are less common and may influence pricing. These can include blue (a dilute black), merle (patches of dilute color on a solid background, like blue merle or chocolate merle), and sometimes chocolate. It's important to note that many of these rare or exotic colors, particularly merle, are not AKC recognized Great Pyredane colors for purebred Great Danes or Great Pyrenees, and therefore wouldn't be for a hybrid like the Great Pyredane. When considering these unique colors, inquire about the health testing of the parents, as some merle genetics can be associated with health issues.

The Great Pyredane personality combines the gentle giant nature of the Great Dane with the protective, calm demeanor of the Great Pyrenees. This results in a truly magnificent and loving companion. Expect a highly friendly Great Pyredane, typically outgoing and eager to please its family. Their loyalty is paramount; they form strong bonds and are devoted to their loved ones. They are generally very sociable, enjoying interactions with people and often getting along well with other pets, especially if properly socialized from a young age. With children, the Great Pyredane temperament is usually patient and gentle, though their large size always necessitates supervision with very young children to prevent accidental tumbles. While adaptable to various living situations, their sheer size makes apartment living challenging for the Great Pyredane; they thrive with ample space, ideally a home with a fenced yard. They are intelligent but can have an independent streak, a nod to their Great Pyrenees heritage, so consistent and positive training is key. This breed makes an excellent family dog for those seeking a devoted, gentle, and majestic companion.

Great Pyredane Temperament: Your Gentle Giant CompanionThe Great Pyredane temperament is a wonderful blend of its parent breeds, creating a loyal, affectionate, and surprisingly mellow companion dog. You can expect a friendly and sociable canine that thrives on human interaction.These gentle giants are typically very good with children, exhibiting a patient and protective nature. They also generally get along well with other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Their inherent desire to please and be part of the family makes them excellent additions to a loving home.While intelligent, Great Pyredanes can inherit a touch of stubbornness from their Great Pyrenees lineage, so consistent and positive reinforcement training is key. They are also quite sensitive and respond best to gentle handling and praise rather than harsh corrections.Regarding adaptability to apartment living, due to their size, a Great Pyredane ideally needs a home with a yard for exercise and stretching. While they are not overly energetic indoors, their sheer size makes smaller spaces challenging. They are more suited to homes where they have room to roam and enjoy daily walks.Overall, the Great Pyredane is a devoted and loving breed, perfect for those seeking a loyal family dog with a calm demeanor and a heart full of love.

Great Pyredane Care: Daily Maintenance & Health Tips

Great Pyredane Activity Level: How active are Great Pyredane? This majestic hybrid balances the calm demeanor of the Great Pyrenees with the Great Dane's playful spirit, resulting in a moderate activity level. They typically enjoy short bursts of energy followed by long periods of rest and lounging.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Great Pyredane at a 9.This breed is unmistakably large, inheriting the imposing stature of both the Great Dane and the Great Pyrenees. You can expect a Great Pyredane to stand tall, likely in the range of 28 to 32 inches at the shoulder, and weigh a substantial 100 to 180 pounds, or even more. Their body structure is robust and well-muscled, built for power and presence. Compared to the vast majority of companion dogs, they are giants. Due to their immense size, the Great Pyredane is not at all suited for apartment living or households with significant space constraints. They require ample room to move, stretch, and simply exist comfortably. Travel can also be a challenge, as finding vehicles or accommodations that can comfortably accommodate such a large dog requires considerable planning.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a Great Pyredane a 7 out of 10, leaning towards high-maintenance.While not the absolute highest, this breed will certainly require more than a casual brush-off. The Great Pyrenees parent contributes a thick, double coat known for significant shedding, especially seasonally, and a tendency to mat if not regularly brushed. The Great Dane, while having a shorter coat, still sheds and can contribute to the overall volume. This combination means you'll be dealing with a lot of loose fur, requiring frequent brushing – at least 2-3 times a week, and daily during shedding season, to prevent mats and reduce the amount of hair around your home. Beyond the coat, their large size means nail trimming is a substantial task that needs regular attention to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Ear cleaning is also crucial, as their droopy ears can trap moisture and debris, making them prone to infections. While they generally don't have excessive skin folds like some brachycephalic breeds, their sheer size can make bathing a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. Susceptibility to skin issues and allergies is always a possibility with large breeds, potentially adding to the grooming complexity if special shampoos or treatments are needed. Therefore, the Great Pyredane is not an easy-care breed and requires consistent and dedicated grooming to maintain their coat and overall health, definitely more frequent and specialized care than many other companion dogs.

I would rate the exercise requirements of a Great Pyredane at a 7 out of 10.This hybrid inherits traits from two very large and somewhat contrasting breeds. The Great Dane side contributes a generally higher energy level, especially in younger dogs, and a need for more consistent, moderate activity to maintain muscle tone and prevent boredom. They are not dogs that can sit around all day; they typically enjoy long walks, interactive play, and can have bursts of speed. On the other hand, the Great Pyrenees brings a more laid-back, watchful demeanor, often content with less intense exercise once mature. They are bred for endurance and patrolling rather than high-speed sprints.Therefore, the Great Pyredane will likely require more than just minimal activity. While they won't be as demanding as a high-drive working breed, they'll thrive with daily structured exercise, such as two moderate walks totaling at least 60-90 minutes, supplemented with playtime in a securely fenced yard. Their large size means that intense, high-impact activities should be limited, especially during growth, to protect their joints. However, their significant strength and potential endurance mean they need opportunities to stretch their legs and engage their minds. Without adequate exercise, they could become restless, destructive, or develop behavioral issues. Their deep chests mean owners should always be mindful of bloat risk and avoid strenuous exercise immediately before or after meals. They do not typically have brachycephalic anatomy, so respiratory limitations related to that are not a concern.

I'd rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the Great Pyredane at an 8 out of 10.This rating is based on the strong likelihood of the Great Pyredane inheriting a significant degree of territoriality and protective instincts from both parent breeds. The Great Pyrenees is renowned for its guarding nature, originally bred to protect livestock, which translates to a high level of vigilance, a strong tendency to bark at perceived threats, and a natural wariness of strangers. While the Great Dane is often described as a "gentle giant," they are also alert and possess a deep, imposing bark that serves as an excellent deterrent. The Great Pyredane will likely be highly alert to unfamiliar sounds and people, using its impressive size and powerful bark as a primary warning system. They are not likely to be passive companions in this regard; instead, they will provide meaningful early warnings. Their territorial instincts will prompt them to investigate and communicate the presence of anything unusual, and while they may not be overtly aggressive, their sheer presence and vocalizations are often enough to deter most potential intruders. They'll definitely be capable of providing meaningful early warnings in a home environment, and their imposing size alone would likely make most people think twice.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Great Pyredane a 7 out of 10.This hybrid benefits from the generally amiable nature of both parent breeds, with the Great Pyrenees often being calm and tolerant, and the Great Dane typically being good-natured and friendly. Great Pyredanes are usually quite sociable and can thrive in multi-dog households. They tend to be good at adapting to dogs of various sizes and energy levels, often displaying a patient and gentle demeanor, particularly with smaller or less confident canines.However, the "guardian" instinct inherited from the Great Pyrenees can manifest as protectiveness, which, if not properly channeled through early and consistent socialization, could lead to a cautious or even dominant stance towards unfamiliar dogs, especially on their own territory. Similarly, the Great Dane, while generally friendly, can be prone to strong prey drives or over-exuberance if not adequately trained and socialized from a young age. Therefore, while generally very good with other dogs, careful introductions and ongoing positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they remain consistently sociable and to prevent any potential misunderstandings or territorial behaviors from developing. With proper socialization, they are typically excellent canine companions.

I would rate the Energetic trait of the Great Pyredane at a 6 out of 10.The Great Pyredane, being a cross between the Great Dane and the Great Pyrenees, inherits a blend of energy levels. The Great Dane, while large, is often described as a "gentle giant" with bursts of playful energy followed by long naps. The Great Pyrenees is generally a more laid-back, watchful breed, content with surveying its domain rather than constant activity. Consequently, the Great Pyredane typically isn't an extremely high-energy dog. They will certainly have periods of playfulness, especially during puppyhood and early adulthood, and enjoy a good walk or a romp in a secure yard. However, they are not typically breeds that demand hours of intense exercise daily to be well-behaved. They possess a moderate endurance, capable of enjoying longer walks or hikes, but they are equally content to lounge around the house. They have a need for regular physical stimulation to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight, but it's more of a consistent, moderate need rather than an insatiable one. They can participate in outdoor activities, but aren't generally built for extreme athletic endeavors like agility or competitive running. Their large size and often relaxed disposition lean them more towards being active companions rather than high-performance athletes. It's important to note that Great Pyredanes are not typically brachycephalic, as neither of their parent breeds are considered brachycephalic. Therefore, the common respiratory and stamina limitations associated with brachycephalic anatomy are not a typical concern for this crossbreed.

I'd rate the "Training Requirements" of the Great Pyredane at a 6.While intelligent, the Great Pyredane inherits a blend of traits that make training moderately challenging rather than effortless. The Great Dane contributes an eagerness to please and a generally good responsiveness to commands, but the Great Pyrenees brings a strong independent streak and a degree of stubbornness inherent to its livestock guarding heritage. This can manifest as selective hearing, especially if the dog doesn't see a clear purpose in the command. Their attention span can be good when engaged, but they can also be easily distracted by their environment, particularly if they perceive a "threat" or something requiring their "guarding."Consistency is absolutely paramount with this breed. Without it, they will quickly learn what they can get away with. Positive reinforcement is highly effective, as they respond well to praise, treats, and toys, but harsh corrections will likely lead to a shutdown or increased stubbornness. They need clear, firm, and patient guidance. This breed is not ideal for absolute beginners who are not prepared to dedicate significant time and effort to consistent training. While a patient beginner with a strong commitment could succeed, an experienced handler or someone willing to seek professional guidance will find the process smoother and more rewarding. Structured routines are highly beneficial for their mental well-being and for establishing good habits.

I'd rate the "Playful" trait of the Great Pyredane a 7 out of 10.While the Great Dane parent brings a good deal of spirited playfulness and a love for interaction, especially in their younger years, the Great Pyrenees tends to be more reserved and laid-back. The Great Pyredane usually inherits a blend of these traits. They are not typically as boisterously energetic as some purebred Danes, but they are also far from inactive. They generally love games and interactive playtime, especially with their family, and enjoy a good romp in the yard. They can be quite goofy and playful, particularly as puppies and young adults, and often retain a charming, playful disposition into adulthood. However, they also appreciate downtime and aren't usually demanding of constant attention or high-octane play. Their playfulness is enthusiastic and engaging, but it's balanced with a calm, watchful nature, making them spirited companions who also appreciate a good nap.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the Great Pyredane a 9 out of 10.The Great Pyredane is highly likely to be a deeply affectionate and people-oriented companion. Both parent breeds contribute significantly to this characteristic. Great Danes are renowned for their gentle, loving, and often "lap dog" tendencies despite their size, displaying a strong desire for human companionship and physical closeness. They are very loyal and sensitive to their owners' emotions, often following them from room to room. The Great Pyrenees, while sometimes perceived as more independent due to their livestock guardian heritage, are incredibly devoted to their families and protective, forming strong bonds. Once they accept someone as part of their "flock," their affection is unwavering, expressed through gentle nudges, leaning, and a constant presence. The combination results in a dog that thrives on affection, seeks out human interaction, and will be a loyal, sensitive, and physically affectionate member of the family, potentially to the point of being a very large "velcro dog." While they might retain a hint of the Pyrenees' thoughtful independence, their overall drive for companionship and love will be extremely high, far outweighing any potential aloofness.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Great Pyredane a 7 out of 10.The Great Pyredane inherits traits from both the Great Dane and the Great Pyrenees, which generally results in a dog with a good temperament towards other animals, but with some important nuances. Great Danes are often known for their gentle and tolerant nature, especially with dogs and cats they've been raised with. They tend to be quite social and easygoing. Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, were bred as livestock guardians, and while they are generally protective and tolerant of their "flock" (which can extend to other household pets), they do possess an independent streak and a moderate prey drive, particularly towards small, fast-moving animals they haven't been socialized with.Therefore, a Great Pyredane is likely to be quite adaptable in multi-pet households, especially if introduced early and properly socialized. They are not naturally aggressive and often display a calm demeanor. However, their size and potential guardian instincts mean that while they aren't typically resource guarders with other animals (they're more likely to be protective of their territory or people), their prey drive, inherited from the Pyrenees side, might emerge with unfamiliar or very small, skittish cats or other small pets if not managed through early exposure and consistent training. Supervision is always recommended, especially during initial introductions or with particularly boisterous play due to their sheer size. With adequate socialization and a calm, consistent environment, they can be extremely pet-friendly, viewing other household animals as part of their extended family.

The Great Pyredane rates a solid 8 out of 10 for "Good with Children."This hybrid breed benefits significantly from the inherent strengths of its parent breeds. The Great Pyrenees contributes a deeply ingrained protective instinct and a calm, patient demeanor, making them naturally watchful and tolerant of children. They are typically very gentle and will often act as a "nanny" figure, observing children's play with a watchful eye. The Great Dane, on the other hand, brings a loving, affectionate nature and a playful spirit. They are often described as "gentle giants" and are known for their sweet temperament and willingness to engage in mild play.The combination results in a dog that is generally very good-natured, patient, and tolerant of the unpredictable nature of children, including their noise and handling. They are usually affectionate and form strong bonds with their family members, including the younger ones. Their large size, while requiring supervision to prevent accidental bumps, often translates to a surprisingly careful and gentle interaction. While naturally gentle and affectionate, consistent training and early socialization are still crucial for any large breed to ensure they understand boundaries and behave appropriately around children of all ages. Supervision is always recommended with any dog and child, especially younger children, but the Great Pyredane's natural disposition makes them an excellent choice for families seeking a loving and protective companion.

Rating the "Good with Strangers" trait of the Great Pyredane at a 7.The Great Pyredane inherits a fascinating blend of traits from its parent breeds. From the Great Dane, it typically gains a good deal of its inherent friendliness and a general desire to be a part of the family, including extended "family" (guests). Great Danes are often quite tolerant and even welcoming of strangers, especially if those strangers are polite and don't pose a threat to their beloved people. However, the Great Pyrenees introduces a strong and ancient instinct for guarding and protectiveness. Great Pyrenees dogs are inherently watchful and reserved with unfamiliar individuals, often assessing them carefully before accepting their presence. This means that while a Great Pyredane is unlikely to be outright aggressive with strangers, they will generally not be as effusively welcoming as, say, a purebred Golden Retriever. They will be observant, often standing between their family and the stranger, and may offer a low growl or bark to alert their owners to an unfamiliar presence. With proper socialization from a young age, consistently introducing them to various people and situations, the Great Pyredane can learn to differentiate between a true threat and a friendly guest. They will likely be polite and accepting once their owner signals that the stranger is welcome, and may even seek out attention, but they will always retain a degree of their protective instinct, making them more reserved than naturally outgoing with the truly unknown. They are adaptable in public, but always aware of their surroundings, and will likely stick close to their owner rather than greeting every passerby.

I would rate the "Great Pyredane" breed's winter tolerance at an 8 out of 10.This rating is due to the strong influence of the Great Pyrenees, a breed renowned for its thick double coat, significant body fat, and large size, all contributing to excellent cold-weather resilience. While the Great Dane parentage brings a shorter coat and less natural insulation, the Pyrenees' genes are very dominant in providing warmth. The Great Pyredane will likely inherit a dense, protective coat, although perhaps not as extremely thick as a purebred Pyrenees. Their large size also contributes to their ability to retain heat. They are not brachycephalic, so breathing in cold air is not a significant concern. They would have a low risk of hypothermia in typical winter conditions. Compared to many other companion dogs, the Great Pyredane will generally require less special care during winter months and will likely enjoy outdoor activities even in colder climates without discomfort. However, in extremely harsh or prolonged sub-zero temperatures, or if they inherit a more Dane-like coat, owners should still be mindful of their comfort and consider limiting their time outdoors, providing a warm shelter, and monitoring for signs of discomfort. They are well-equipped, but not entirely impervious to the cold.

Rating: 4The Great Pyredane, with its parentage of Great Dane and Great Pyrenees, inherits a complex mix of traits that lean towards a moderate to low summer tolerance. While neither parent breed is truly brachycephalic, the Great Dane's deep chest and potential for laryngeal paralysis can hinder efficient breathing in high temperatures. The Great Pyrenees contributes a dense, double coat designed for cold weather, which acts as an excellent insulator, unfortunately trapping heat in summer. This combination significantly impairs their ability to regulate body temperature. Consequently, they have a higher risk of heatstroke, and even moderate outdoor activity during warm weather can be dangerous. They will absolutely require special care in summer months, more so than many other companion dogs. Owners should prioritize indoor climate control, limit outdoor exposure to early mornings or late evenings, provide ample shade and cool water, and be vigilant for any signs of overheating. They are not a breed that can tolerate extended periods in the sun or strenuous exercise when temperatures rise.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Great Pyredane at a 5.This rating reflects a middle-of-the-road health outlook, acknowledging both potential benefits and significant challenges. While hybrid vigor *might* offer some buffer against the extremes of either parent, the Great Pyredane is still prone to many of the health issues that plague its very large parent breeds. Both the Great Dane and the Great Pyrenees are predisposed to serious conditions like bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), various cancers (osteosarcoma, lymphosarcoma), and a range of orthopedic problems including hip and elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and patellar luxation. Additionally, cardiac issues like dilated cardiomyopathy are a concern from the Dane side. The Pyrenees can contribute to eye problems like entropion or ectropion and certain autoimmune disorders. Their sheer size puts a strain on their joints and organs, contributing to a relatively short average lifespan for both parent breeds.While responsible breeding practices, including genetic screening of parents, can mitigate some of these risks, the inherent genetic baggage of two giant breeds makes exceptional health a rare commodity. This breed would definitely be considered high-maintenance in terms of potential veterinary costs and the need for careful management, especially regarding diet, exercise to prevent bloat, and early detection of musculoskeletal problems. They are generally *not* robust compared to many smaller companion dogs due to their susceptibility to complex, expensive, and often life-threatening conditions.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Great Pyredane at an 8 out of 10.This rating stems from the strong protective instincts inherited from both parent breeds. The Great Pyrenees is renowned for its vigilant and territorial nature, historically guarding livestock against predators. This translates into a strong awareness of its surroundings and a natural inclination to view its home and family as its flock to protect. The Great Dane, while often perceived as a gentle giant, is also incredibly loyal and will stand up for its family if it perceives a threat, though it tends to be less overtly territorial than the Pyr.The Great Pyredane typically exhibits a high degree of alertness and will readily notice anything out of the ordinary, often letting out a deep, booming bark to signal an intrusion. Their size alone is a significant deterrent. They are fiercely loyal to their owners and tend to be wary of strangers, often maintaining a watchful distance until they deem a person trustworthy. This breed is definitely capable of offering meaningful protection in a household setting, acting as both an excellent watchdog due to their alertness and a formidable guard dog due to their size, courage, and inherent protective drive. While they are undoubtedly loving companion dogs to their families, their protective instincts are deeply ingrained and they are fully capable of moving beyond mere companionship to actively defend their loved ones and territory.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Great Pyredane at a 3.This rating reflects that the Great Pyredane is considered a short-lived breed compared to other companion dogs. Both parent breeds, the Great Dane and the Great Pyrenees, are giant breeds, and large and giant dog breeds generally have significantly shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. The Great Dane, in particular, is notorious for its very short average lifespan of 7-10 years, and often less. While the Great Pyrenees typically lives a bit longer (10-12 years), the combination still results in a relatively brief existence. Common health issues in both breeds, such as bloat, various cancers (especially osteosarcoma), and heart conditions (like dilated cardiomyopathy), contribute to this shorter lifespan. While responsible breeding and care can certainly optimize a Great Pyredane's health and longevity within its genetic predispositions, they cannot fundamentally overcome the inherent genetic predisposition for a shorter life that comes with being a giant dog breed.