BATH DAY

Shasta Playing In The Leaves......

The Great Pyrenees takes its name from the Pyrenees Mountian range between France and Spain. The Pyrenean is a natural guard dog and was originally used as a protector of the shepard and his flocks. This dog breed is believed to have originated around 2000 BC. These dogs are watchful and loyal. At the same time they have a very independent nature and are known for their "stubborness" This is a very intelligent breed of dog, and often you can see the thought processes occurring.

The Great Pyrenees is a known barker and wanderer. They bark naturally to let anyone know that they are there, they are watching, all is well. They also have a distinctive "something is wrong" bark. Pyrenees can be taught to bark only when appropriate, with diligence and patience. If you plan to own a pyr. then proper fencing is a must, they love to wander, and explore. This breed of dog is typically unable to walk off-leash. I have often heard it said that a pyr without a fence or a leash is called a dis-a-pyr.

The pyrenees sports a thick double coat that requires weekly, if not daily attention. They have a tendency to mat if not well cared for. To take care of a coat like this you need a variety of tools. A comb, and a slicker brush, a mat breaker and a shedding rake..and even the phone # of an excellent professional groomer should be on hand. The Pyrenees will "blow" their coat twice a year. This means that they will lose the thick undercoat and it takes a day or two of patience and diligence on your part to help brush it out thoroughly. This is an important step in owning a pyr. because if you let this go, they can develop skin problems, hot spots, fungus infections, that are harder to deal with than a simple thorough brushing. (you will also need a really good vaccum cleaner)