The Pyrenean Mountain Dog, known as the Great Pyrenees in
North America, is a large breed of dog used as a livestock guardian dog.
The Great Pyrenees is a very old breed that has been used
for hundreds of years by shepherds, who inhabit parts of the region in and
around the Pyrenees Mountains of southern France and northern Spain.
One of the first descriptions of the breed dates from 1407,
and from 1675 the breed was a favourite of The Grand Dauphin and other members
of the French aristocracy.
By the early nineteenth century there was a thriving
market for the dogs in mountain towns, from where they would be taken to other
parts of France. It was developed to be agile in order to guard sheep on steep,
mountainous slopes.
In nature, the Great Pyrenees is confident, gentle
(especially with children), and affectionate. While territorial and protective
of its flock or family when necessary, its general demeanour is of composure
and patience and loyalty. It is a strong willed, independent and reserved
breed. It is also attentive, quite fearless and loyal to its duties. The Great
Pyrenees' size makes it an imposing guardian.
Man's (or woman's) best friend is the dog. Man's second best friend is his beret.
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