Pyrenean Shepherd

The Pyrenean Shepherd or "Pyr Shep" has herded sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains of Southern France for centuries. The breed comes in two coat types - Rough-Faced and Smooth-Faced. Colors include shades of fawn from tan to copper, as well as charcoal to silver to pearl grey. Although tentative with strangers, the Pyrenean Shepherd has a very lively, cheerful disposition, and is a superb canine athlete who excels at agility and other dog sports.

Its origins lost in the mists of time, the Pyrenean Shepherd has resided in the Pyrenees Mountains of Southern France since time immemorial. Myths abound - that the breed is descended from native Pyrenean bears and foxes; and that this was the original dog of the Cro-Magnon people who painted the cave at Lascaux.

Breed Profile

Still very close to their working roots, The Pyrenean Shepherd possess the traits of superior herding dogs: intelligence, independence, courage, vigor, and versatility. Keeping one cooped up and alone, with nothing to do, will not only lead to problem behaviors, it’s a waste of a remarkable animal. The Pyrenean Shepherd bonds intensely with their special person, sometimes to the exclusion of all others. Their alertness and a wariness of strangers make them excellent watchdogs. They do best with owners who can match their energy and devotion.