When it comes to majestic canines with gentle temperaments and impressive guarding instincts, the Great Pyrenees is a standout breed. Known for their striking white coats and noble demeanor, these dogs have won hearts worldwide. However, they are not alone in their grandeur. There are several other breeds that share similarities with the Great Pyrenees in appearance, temperament, and purpose. Discovering these breeds offers dog enthusiasts a glimpse into the world of gentle giants, each with unique traits yet embodying the same guardian spirit. Explore these seven remarkable breeds and uncover what makes them akin to the beloved Great Pyrenees.
If you’ve ever laid eyes on the Great Pyrenees, you know what an awe-inspiring sight they are. With their thick white coats, massive stature, and gentle temperament, these dogs are like fluffy mountains roaming around your house. Originally bred to protect livestock in the rugged Pyrenees mountains, they are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and calm nature. Their ability to bond with families while still maintaining that regal presence is what makes them so special.
But, just because this dog stands out doesn’t mean it’s the only breed in the world with similar qualities. Several other large, fluffy, and majestic dogs share similar characteristics to the Great Pyrenees. If you’re looking for a dog with the same loving personality, majestic appearance, or protective instincts, you might find your perfect match among these gentle giants.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a list of dog breeds that share traits with the Great Pyrenees, whether in terms of looks, temperament, or both.
Dogs Similar to Great Pyrenees
1. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a gentle giant that could easily pass for a sibling of the Great Pyrenees. Like the Pyrenees, the Newfoundland is a massive dog, often weighing between 100-150 pounds. What makes these dogs so similar is their loving nature, particularly towards families. Newfoundland dogs are known for being exceptionally kind and patient, especially with children, making them ideal family pets.
Their thick, water-resistant coats are reminiscent of the Great Pyrenees, though they tend to be darker in color, usually black, brown, or Landseer (black and white). They are also incredibly strong swimmers, often used in water rescues. Just like the Pyrenees, Newfoundlands were historically bred for working purposes—these dogs were originally used as water rescue dogs in Newfoundland’s icy waters.
However, unlike the more independent Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland is known to be more dependent on its humans and might follow you everywhere. These dogs are affectionate, patient, and loyal, making them excellent companions for families.
2. Leonberger
The Leonberger is another big dog that could easily be mistaken for a Great Pyrenees at first glance. With a similar size, massive build, and thick double coat, Leonbergers are multipurpose working dogs as per Purina, though in a different context. While the Great Pyrenees was historically a flock guardian, the Leonberger was originally bred to be a working dog in the home, often used for pulling carts or serving as watchdogs.
They are friendly, affectionate dogs that are excellent with children and families. Much like the Great Pyrenees, they possess a calm temperament and a gentle demeanor, making them ideal companions for families who want a large, loving dog. These dogs have a beautiful golden to reddish-brown coat that’s not only gorgeous but requires regular grooming to keep it in tip-top shape.
While they are less independent than the Great Pyrenees, they share a similar protective instinct. These dogs are also known for their loyalty and can be a bit reserved with strangers, which is a trait that makes them good guardians. Overall, if you’re looking for a dog that’s similar to the Great Pyrenees but with a slightly more social and active nature, the Leonberger is an excellent choice.
3. Mastiff
Mastiffs are another breed that shares many similarities with the Great Pyrenees, especially when it comes to their imposing size and protective nature. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 120 to 230 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds out there. Though they might not have the same fluffy coat as the Pyrenees, their muscular frame and watchful eyes evoke the same sense of strength and dignity.
Mastiffs, like the Great Pyrenees, are known for their calm, laid-back nature. They are often referred to as gentle dogs due to their friendly and affectionate behavior with their families, even though they might be a bit more reserved around strangers. While the Great Pyrenees were bred to guard livestock, they have a similar role as guard dogs and family protectors.
While these dogs require a lot of space to roam, they are typically not very high-energy. Instead, they prefer lounging around the house, making them great companions for families who want a more relaxed dog. If you love the regal appearance and protective nature of the Great Pyrenees, but want something with a more imposing, larger-than-life presence, the Mastiff might be the perfect breed for you.
4. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are iconic dogs with an equally iconic history. While they may not have the same appearance as the Great Pyrenees, they share many characteristics, especially their affectionate nature and strong protective instincts. These dogs were originally bred in the Swiss Alps for rescue work, saving people lost in the mountains, much like the Great Pyrenees served as guardians of livestock in the harsh conditions of the Pyrenees Mountains.
They are known for their massive size and calm nature. These dogs are incredibly social and love being around their families, including children. Despite their size, they are typically gentle and very patient, much like the Great Pyrenees.
These dogs tend to be a little more drooly than the Pyrenees, but they are still loving, loyal companions that thrive in family settings. If you’re drawn to the idea of having a large, strong, and protective dog but want a breed with a more outgoing and sociable nature, Saint Bernard could be an ideal alternative to the Great Pyrenees.
5. Entlebucher Mountain Dog
While the Entlebucher Mountain Dog might not be as large as the Great Pyrenees, it shares some important traits. This smaller working breed from Switzerland is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. The Entlebucher is a herding dog and, like the Pyrenees, it’s incredibly devoted to its family and protective of its territory. WebMD calls them enthusiastic dogs!
These dogs have a sleek, tri-colored coat, which is shorter than the Great Pyrenees’ thick double coat, but still quite beautiful. Despite their smaller stature, Entlebuchers are extremely agile and energetic. They may not have the same calm demeanor as the Great Pyrenees, but they make up for it with their work ethic and devotion.
If you’re looking for a dog similar to the Great Pyrenees but with more energy and a slightly smaller size, this dog could be the ideal companion for you.
6. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a Hungarian breed that shares many similarities with the Great Pyrenees, particularly in terms of temperament and protective instincts. Like the Pyrenees, they are also known for their loyalty when they are with their families. AKC classifies them as working dogs.
With their thick white coats and large size, Kuvasz dogs look remarkably similar to the Great Pyrenees, but their personality can differ slightly. They tend to be a little more independent, making them excellent watchdogs. While they may not be as laid-back as the Pyrenees, they are still loving, intelligent, and protective. Early socialization and training help owners manage their behavior on time!
7. Pyrenean Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a close relative of the Great Pyrenees, sharing both physical and behavioral similarities. These massive dogs were also bred to protect livestock, and they have the same calm, gentle nature that makes the Great Pyrenees such a beloved family companion. They are massive dogs, often weighing upwards of 100 pounds, and their medium-length coat is generally thick, and suited for cold climates.
Despite their imposing size, Pyrenean Mastiffs are known for their gentle (as claimed by the American Kennel Club) and friendly nature, much like the Great Pyrenees. These dogs are affectionate and very protective of their families, making them excellent companions for those who want a dog that can double as a protector and a loving family member.
If you’re looking for a breed that closely resembles the Great Pyrenees but with a little extra size and strength, the Pyrenean Mastiff is an excellent alternative.
Conclusion
The Great Pyrenees is a magnificent breed, known for its size, beauty, and gentle nature. But there are plenty of other majestic dogs that share similar traits, whether it’s their fluffy coats, protective instincts, or calm demeanor. From the Newfoundland to the Pyrenean Mastiff, these breeds all offer their unique spin on the gentle giant personality that makes the Great Pyrenees so special. The friendly Bernese Mountain dog, Tibetan Mastiffs, and Newfoundland Newfoundlands are some other incredibly loyal dogs that share certain characteristics with the Great Pyrenees.
Whether you want a dog that can guard your family, snuggle with you on the couch, or run alongside you on a hike, one of these breeds is sure to be a perfect fit for your lifestyle. So, if you’re looking for a dog with the same warmth, loyalty, and regal presence as the Great Pyrenees, consider bringing home one of these awe-inspiring dogs!
In exploring the seven dog breeds similar to the Great Pyrenees, common traits such as size, temperament, and protective instincts are evident, showcasing their shared lineage and functions. These breeds, including the Bernese Mountain Dog, Kuvasz, and Maremma Sheepdog, among others, possess a majestic presence and loyal nature, often serving as excellent family companions and diligent guardians. Understanding these breeds not only highlights their roles in historical contexts as livestock protectors but also underscores their adaptability and suitability for various lifestyles. These gentle giants continue to captivate and offer unwavering companionship, reflecting the timeless bond between humans and dogs.