The Pyrenees are big and strong mountain dogs that were originally bred to deter wolves or other such predators from livestock. These majestic white dogs weigh up to 100 pounds and live up to 10-12 years.
When you decide to adopt a Great Pyrenees or already have one, it is essential to give them the right care. Your dog is a great addition to the family and will bring you so much joy if taken proper care of.
Caring for Great Pyrenees dogs is fairly simple as they are quite accommodating. Continue reading to find out how you can be the best dog parent for your Great Pyrenees!
Caring for a Great Pyrenees
Diet
In terms of nutrition and food, you may think that a dog as big as a Pyrenee eats relatively less compared to its size. But this is normal. Make sure to feed your dog food that is low in protein and specifically formulated for a large breed.
Grooming
Pyrenees dogs don’t need any high quality grooming because their coats are resistant to dirt and tangle. We recommend you brush your dog once a week. This will reduce shedding, therefore reducing the amount of hair around the house. You should also trim their nails and brush their teeth often.
A few tips
- Never tie them outside unsupervised or let them roam at will. It can promote aggressive behavior, or other personality changes.
- Always have fresh, cold water available. This is because Great Pyrenees have two layers of coat, making them extremely hot at times.
How to care for a Great Pyrenees puppy?
There are kindergarten classes for young puppies, but we do not recommend that before your puppy is six months old. You can start normal behavioral training as soon as you bring the puppy home.
You must provide your puppy with its own space for sleeping and eating. However, at this tender age, puppies are just like babies. Therefore, you should not let them be on their own. They will most likely get bored and end up looking for mischief. You can confine them in a playpen.
Toys are also essential for puppies. Rubber balls and other large toys are perfect. Do not let them chew on old newspapers or shoes.
Pyrenees are naturally clean, and hence they will be quick to potty train. Put the puppy out as soon as it wakes up, and after each nap and meal. After a while, they will start to communicate their needs whenever they want to relieve themselves.
How to care for a Great Pyrenees senior
Pyrenees are not a highly active breed and generally store their energy for the future. When it comes to a senior, light exercises, such as jogs or walks with you, will keep them fit.
These dogs are susceptible to bloat or develop gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), where their stomach distends and twists. The causes are not fully understood yet. However, multiple meals per day and preventing vigorous exercise around mealtime can help reduce the chances of developing this condition.
How to care for a disabled Great Pyrenees?
In the case of a disabled Pyrenees, it is the same as other disabled dogs. Give them support, love, and care. Build a routine, get a second opinion from a vet, and find a support group.
When disabled, apart from giving it all the medicines prescribed by the vet, you should also spend quality time with your pet.
Summary
Whenever you have questions or problems, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. Caring for Great Pyrenees is simple as compared to other breeds. They are quite independent and strive to protect you first. Remember, shower your pet with all the love that it deserves, and it’ll stay happy!
Sources
Recommended Reading:
- Best Dog Food for Great Pyrenees
- Best Puppy Food for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Crate for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Bed for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Brush for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Toys for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Collar for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Harness for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Muzzle for Great Pyrenees
- Best Dog Shampoo for Great Pyrenees
- Best Training Book for Great Pyrenees