Pyrenean Shepherd

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-14 years
The Pyrenean Shepherd has a few health conditions and diseases that may occur over time. The three health conditions that may affect this breed include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, patellar luxation, and eye disease. While most Pyrenean Shepherds are healthy, it is important to work with a reputable breeder and keep an eye on your dog’s health.

Hip dysplasia occurs in the Pyrenean Shepherd when the hip joint does not fit correctly into the joint’s socket or when the hip joint itself is the wrong shape. When one of these two problems occur, the cartilage that protects the joint is worn down and can increase the pressure and force felt on the joint.

Epilepsy is best known as seizures that occur in dogs. There are many reasons why a dog may have epilepsy including disorders with organs in the body, congenital defects, and other conditions such as diabetes.

Patellar Luxation is caused when the knee cap of your Pyrenean Shepherd is dislocated from its traditional and healthy position. Female dogs are more likely to develop this condition over males. Patellar Luxation happens due to trauma at the site location or because of a genetic malformation.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is also predisposed to eye diseases such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy. CEA occurs due to an abnormal development of tissues in the eyes underneath the retina. Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a type of inherited eye disease that affects the retina in the Pyrenean Shepherd. When the disease occurs, the red cells that are connected to the retina die off.

The Pyrenean Shepherd has a life span of 12 to 14 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

The Pyrenean Shepherd is a beautiful medium breed dog that resided in the Pyrenees Mountains. Myths have it that this breed descended from the native Pyrenean foxes and bears in the area. The Pyrenean Shepherd is said to be affectionate, enthusiastic, and active.

Before being domesticated, Pyrenean Shepherds were used to herd animals and keep them from straying away. The breed still has ties to its past and will exhibit traits that are found in herding dogs. You can expect your Pyrenean Shepherd to be courageous, independent, versatile, intelligent, and sometimes stubborn.

The Pyrenean Shepherd will not do well in a home where it is unable to get outside and run around. While apartment life is not recommended for the breed, if you do live in an apartment, you will need to take your Pyrenean Shepherd out for multiple walks.

This breed is known to bond with its owner and makes a great family dog as they are tolerant of children. Since the Pyrenean Shepherd is a herder, they are extremely alert and will serve as an excellent watchdog in your home.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is considered a relatively easy breed to train, but the owner must remain consistent and make sure that their dog gets enough exercise and is able to socialize with other dogs.

Grooming

The Pyrenean Shepherd has long hair, but is easy to groom and does not require an intensive grooming schedule. Your dog will need to have their hair brushed on a regular basis.

In addition to a brush, you should bathe your Pyrenean Shepherd occasionally to remove any dirt caught in their coat and to keep them clean.

This breed does require a nail trim often, as their nails do grow quickly once they are cut. If the nails are not cut, they are prone to breaking, cracking, and splitting, which can be painful for your Pyrenean Shepherd.

Lastly, you should clean your Pyrenean Shepherd’s ears to remove any buildup of dirt, ear wax, and other substances.

Diet

It is important to feed your Pyrenean Shepherd a balanced diet that will meet his or her needs as your dog grows and transitions from a puppy to adult stages. Since this breed is considered active, you want to make sure the dry food you offer him or her is of good quality.

When you choose a food, look for healthy and natural ingredients such as chicken, rice, corn, and likewise. You should avoid foods that have by products or chemicals in them. If you need help choosing the best food for your Pyrenean Shepherd, speak with your veterinarian.

While wet food can be given on occasion, you do not want to rely on it as it can cause a buildup of plaque on the teeth and lead to bad breath and gum disease.
 

Find A Pyrenean Shepherd Breeder

Pyrenean Shepherd Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Pyrenean Shepherd

Cost

The Pyrenean Shepherd can be purchased from a reputable breeder and this will cost you anywhere between $500 and $800. It is not uncommon for female puppies to cost more than the males, so depending on the preferred sex, you may be closer to the either end of the spectrum.

It is unlikely that you will see this breed in an animal shelter anywhere. There are Pyrenean Shepherd rescues that take in unwanted or abandoned dogs and then allow you to adopt them. The adoption fee for a Pyrenean Shepherd from a rescue will vary, but you can expect to pay between $100 and $400.

Please note that when you adopt a puppy or adult dog from a rescue, there are usually other requirements that must be met such as a home check and knowledge of the breed among other things.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Pyrenean Shepherd require exercise and should not be left alone in a house or apartment all day. The breed is esasy to care for and train, which makes it a wonderful breed for any dog owner. This breed ranks a 2.

 

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