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Pyrenean Mountain Dog (or Patou, Great Pyrenean, Pyrenean Mountain Dog)

🏞 History

The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is an ancient breed, born in the mountains at the border of France and Spain over 5,000 years ago. Used by nomadic tribes to protect sheep herds from predators like wolves and bears, this imposing dog has always been a faithful companion to shepherds.

Over the centuries, the breed has won the hearts of the French aristocracy and even served during World War I to transport ammunition in the Pyrenees. Today, this majestic guardian is as much a protector of livestock as it is a beloved companion in families.

🐕 Breed Profile

Large, strong, and intelligent, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog impresses as much with its size as with its gentleness. It is a loyal, calm, and friendly guardian, ideal for a loving family. However, its imposing size and protective instinct require a suitable environment and rigorous training.

This is not an apartment dog: it needs space to thrive and an active life to stay healthy.

🔍 In Brief

  • Hypoallergenic: No

  • Weight: 123-141 lbs (males), 110-130 lbs (females)

  • Height: 28-32 in (males), 26-30 in (females)

  • Life expectancy: 10-12 years

  • Physical activity needs: 2 to 3 hours per day

❤️ Personality & Compatibility

  • Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Vocalizations (barking): ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Hunter: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

  • Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Compatibility:

  • With children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (kind and patient)

  • With animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (early socialization is essential)

  • With strangers: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (vigilant, he is an excellent guardian)

  • In an apartment: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (not suitable, prefers large spaces)

🌟 Ideal for: families living in the countryside, with a large garden where the dog can move freely and keep an eye on "his territory."

🛠 Hygiene & care

  • Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

  • Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

💰 Budget

  • Purchase price: 900-1200 €

  • Average annual cost: 1000-1500 € (food, veterinary care, maintenance)

🌟 In summary

The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is a majestic companion, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor life. Its strength and gentleness make it an ideal protector for families, provided you offer it an environment suitable for its size and needs. If you are looking for a calm, loyal, and impressive dog, the Patou is for you!

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Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. Belfius Direct Insurance's Pet Insurance takes care of them by covering unexpected veterinary expenses in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

Learn more

Protect the one who is most loyal to you

Your dog is part of your family. The pet insurance from Belfius Direct Insurance takes care of him by covering unexpected veterinary costs in case of illness or accident in Belgium.

Learn more