The Great Pyrenees is a big, beautiful dog breed with a loving temperament that makes many families consider getting one as a pet. Their gorgeous white coats and reputation as gentle giants seems to make them ideal family companions. However, there are some important factors to consider before deciding if a Great Pyrenees will fit into your home and lifestyle.

While Pyrenees dogs have many positive qualities, they also have some unique care requirements that require dedication from owners. Are Great Pyrenees good with kids? How do they behave around other pets? Let’s explore the pros and cons of Great Pyrenees as family dogs.

There are many reasons why Great Pyrenees excel as family companions. Here are some of the biggest advantages:

The Great Pyrenees is known for its remarkably patient and gentle personality, especially with children. Originally bred as livestock guardian dogs, Pyrenees are protective yet docile by nature. Their tolerance and affection towards kids makes them excellent playmates and beloved furry siblings.

Once bonded with their family, Great Pyrenees become very loyal and affectionate pets. They thrive when included in family activities and adore being close to their owners. Pyrenees dogs are sometimes called “Velcro dogs” for their tendency to stick close by their person’s side around the house and yard.

Thanks to their guardian heritage, most Great Pyrenees get along well with other household pets like cats and calm dogs. Early socialization is key, but Pyrenees tend to be more polite and tolerant compared to many dog breeds. Their laidback energy makes them ideal housemates for mellow companion pets.

The protective nature of Great Pyrenees means they often bark to alert families of anything unusual, making them excellent watchdogs. Their large size and loud warning barks can deter potential intruders. However, with proper training Pyrenees can learn when to tone down unnecessary vocalizations.

For a giant breed, Great Pyrenees have a relatively moderate activity level. They enjoy brisk walks and playtime with their family, but are not highly energetic dogs who need constant exercise and intense activities. Their somewhat lazy nature makes them relaxed house pets.

Thanks to their thick double coats bred to withstand frigid mountain conditions, Great Pyrenees relish colder temperatures. Their fluffy fur makes them a great choice for families in cold northern climates who want an outdoor loving pet.

When raised with proper training, socialization and attention, the naturally calm and loyal Great Pyrenees temperament can make them exceptional family companions and beloved fixtures in households with children and other pets.

While Great Pyrenees have many positive attributes, there are also some potential downsides to consider:

Great Pyrenees dogs are famously independent thinkers. Their guarding lineage means they are confident decision makers who may ignore commands or training from stubbornness or distraction. Without early and patient training, Pyrenees may develop pushy, domineering behaviors.

Great Pyrenees dogs are somewhat nocturnal by nature, staying awake and alert at night while being quieter and more lethargic during daylight hours. This can be disruptive in family households that operate on a normal daytime schedule. Make sure to provide a cool, dark, quiet space for your Pyrenees to nap and retreat to during the daytime.

Due to their large size and guarding tendencies, Great Pyrenees may exhibit impatience, anxiety or possessive behaviors around very young children who are loud, grabby or poke at them. Supervise closely and teach children how to properly interact with the family Pyrenees. Wait until kids are older before bringing home a Great Pyrenees puppy.

While Great Pyrenees have a gentle reputation, their nocturnal instincts, need for training, tendency towards dominance and anxiety, and high grooming requirements may make them better suited for families with older children rather than infants or toddlers.

When cared for properly by a dedicated owner, Great Pyrenees can make fantastic family pets in the right type of household. But they require special consideration due to their protective personality, nocturnal tendencies, strong will, and grooming needs. For experienced dog owners prepared to invest time into training and care, the Great Pyrenees payback is years of unwavering devotion and love. Just be sure your lifestyle, household and expectations align with this unique giant breed before making the long-term commitment of responsible Pyrenees ownership.