12 Great Pyrenees Mixes: Info, Pictures, Facts & History

Welcome to the dog lover’s ultimate guide to the world of Great Pyrenees mixes. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you pair the regal Great Pyrenees with other popular breeds, you’re in the right place.

Let’s embark on a journey through the canine encyclopedia to unravel the best mix-breeds featuring the Great Pyrenees. But be warned: you might just find your new best friend!

How Are Great Pyrenees Classified?

When it comes to the classic Great Pyrenees, these majestic creatures hail from the mountain ranges between France and Spain. Known for their protective instincts and fluffy coats, Great Pyrenees are often employed as livestock guardian dogs.

So, what happens when you introduce another breed into the mix? You get a fascinating range of hybrids, each boasting unique qualities while carrying forward the Pyrenees’ charm. Stick around as we go through 12 of the most interesting Great Pyrenees mixes.

The 12 Great Pyrenees Mixes

1. Border Collie Pyrenees

This hybrid is a fusion of the Border Collie’s unparalleled intelligence and the Great Pyrenees’ substantial size and regal composure. Don’t underestimate its need for stimulation—both mental and physical.

Failing to engage this breed might result in some freelance interior redesigns involving your favorite shoes or furniture. With the Border Collie Pyrenees, you’re signing up for an intellectual journey that requires you to keep up or else!

Despite their active minds and strong will, they’re incredibly affectionate and dedicated, making them perfect for people who are up for the challenge of a smarter-than-average pup.

2. Anatolian Pyrenees

In the canine world, think of the Anatolian Pyrenees as your friendly neighborhood bouncer—built like a tank but with the demeanor of a wise elder. This mix seamlessly marries the guarding talents of the Anatolian Shepherd with the serene nature of the Great Pyrenees.

The result is a dog that can calmly entertain a toddler one moment and vigilantly guard your property the next. What if they see leaves falling too aggressively? This dog’s on it. The Anatolian Pyrenees thrives in a setting where it has the freedom to explore and room to stretch its legs.

An ideal human companion understands the subtle nuances of giant breeds and can offer enough open space. A well-fenced yard is their paradise.

3. Great Pyredane

The Great Pyredane doesn’t do small talk—or small spaces. Picture the sheer mass of a Great Dane meeting the expansive spirit of a Great Pyrenees, and you’ll understand why this breed is often mistaken for a mythical creature.

Its size can be awe-inspiring, especially if you’re accustomed to pint-sized pets. But don’t let its imposing stature fool you; this mix is as gentle as a lamb—just a really big lamb.

The Great Pyredane is a creature of open spaces, so if you’re contemplating apartment life, you might want to scroll back up to something a little less “colossal.” It is ideal for families with a love for the grandeur of life and the space to accommodate it.

4. Chownees

Meet the Chownees, the dog that turns “floofy” into a lifestyle. Imagine having a canine that combines the Chow Chow’s distinctive mane with the Great Pyrenees’ lush coat. Grooming this breed is either your dream come true or a full-time job—your choice.

The Chownees doesn’t just look pretty; it also brings a dual security system, courtesy of its parent breeds. This mix respects personal space as much as it demands its own.

Primarily suited for adults or families with older kids, it’s the introverted bodyguard you never knew you needed. If you’ve been seeking out a pooch that isn’t in your face like a lot of other breeds, the Chownees might be just right for you.

5. Great Pytriever

Get to know the Great Pytriever, a breed that combines affection and intelligence with an uncanny ability to claim the entire backyard as its domain. Apartment dwellers, this breed might not be your best match; the Great Pytriever craves a wide-open space for its exploratory escapades.

Don’t mistake that cute face as a pass for lax training; consistent guidance is essential to prevent this pup from turning stubborn. Daily exercise is non-negotiable to keep that boundless energy in check.

A well-exercised Great Pytriever is the kind of pet that elevates the mood in any household. If you can’t accommodate its activity needs or don’t have the proper space, you may want to consider looking for another breed entirely.

6. Germanees

Give it up for the Germanees, a breed that could easily pen its own job application—and get hired on the spot. A synergy of the German Shepherd’s innate courage and the Great Pyrenees’ natural guarding instincts, this dog is both your Sunday morning jogging buddy and your personal security service.

Not only is it athletic, but it’s also keenly observant, making it a top pick for homeowners who want a dog that can shift gears effortlessly. Though seemingly stern, the Germanees knows how to switch to cuddle mode, making it a well-rounded addition to households that appreciate a touch of gravitas along with a wagging tail.

7. Australian Pyrenees

This dog has the vitality of an Australian Shepherd and the commanding presence of a Great Pyrenees. The Australian Pyrenees is like the canine version of a dynamo—boundless energy encapsulated in a noticeably large yet manageable frame.

While not exactly purse-sized, this breed finds the perfect middle ground, making it larger than an Aussie but smaller than its Pyrenees counterpart. This breed is sure to entertain and be the life of the party.

With its eye-catching, multicolored coat and outgoing personality, this mix is the celebrity of any dog park. Social, playful, and incredibly good with children, it’s a win-win for active families.

8. Great Bernese

Step aside! You’re entering the domain of the Great Bernese, a breed that projects an almost royal aura of calm and majesty. A fusion of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Great Pyrenees, this dog seems to have been crafted with serenity and wisdom in its DNA.

It’s no shrinking violet either; it anticipates a significant amount of real estate in your yard to roam freely. Despite its laid-back demeanor, training is non-negotiable.

Inconsistent cues could turn your serene monarch into a restless ruler, so be sure to invest in a solid training schedule for this breed. Better yet, try to do so as early as possible. The sooner you instill ground rules and obedience, the less likely your Great Bernese is to act out.

9. Maspyr

The Maspyr is not just a dog; it’s a commitment. Combining the English Mastiff’s imposing frame with the Great Pyrenees’ dignified demeanor, this behemoth can tip the scales at a staggering 200 pounds. The size alone demands a handler with the confidence and experience to maintain control.

Simply put, a Maspyr isn’t for the faint of heart—or weak in the arms. If you’re ready for the challenge, be prepared for a training regimen that demands equal parts persistence and patience. Let’s not gloss over their lifespan, which is typically shorter due to their size.

It’s a solemn reminder that every moment with a Maspyr is precious. The good news? They offer a lifetime’s worth of affection compacted into their shorter years. Commit to them, and a Maspyr will redefine the word “loyalty” for you.

10. Great Weilernees

Introducing the Great Weilernees, a breed that could give bouncers a run for their money. This sizable mix blends the protective nature of the Rottweiler with the guardian tendencies of the Great Pyrenees.

Males tend to outsize females, and coat colors can vary, usually mirroring their Rottweiler parent. While they could potentially be family pets, their imposing size could pose a challenge for households with young children.

Their territorial behavior, another trait inherited from both parent breeds, makes early socialization a critical aspect of ownership. Consistent training from a strong leader is the name of the game for this headstrong breed.

11. Great Wolfhound

Meet the Great Wolfhound, a canine that offers loyalty by the pound. This leviathan blend of Irish Wolfhound and Great Pyrenees can exceed 100 pounds, making them a formidable presence in any home.

Those with an eye for security will find the Great Wolfhound an ideal match; their protective nature ensures that your household remains an impervious fortress. Aggression, however, is usually not in their playbook. They’re the silent guardian type.

While tender around children, caution is advised; this breed’s sheer size poses a risk of unintentional accidents. Don’t let their stoic demeanor fool you; this breed requires consistent socialization to manage its Irish Wolfhound-inherited trait of potential overprotectiveness. Keep them engaged in new experiences to ensure they’re well-rounded protectors of your domain.

12. Pyrador

Get ready to fall head over heels for the Pyrador, a unique marriage of the Great Pyrenees’ protective prowess and the Labrador Retriever’s boundless enthusiasm. This is no wallflower of a breed; it’s ready to be an active part of your life.

Whether it’s accompanying you on hiking trails or doing a perimeter check of your home, the Pyrador has you covered. From day one, it’s important to introduce your Pyrador to as many new faces and experiences as possible.

Proper socialization ensures that this dog grows up to be the jovial character that Labradors are famous for rather than veering toward the overprotective side typical of the Great Pyrenees.

Which Mix Is Right for You?

Selecting a Great Pyrenees mix isn’t like buying a new pair of shoes; you can’t just return them if the fit isn’t right. Your lifestyle, family dynamics, and available space are crucial factors that can make or break this long-term relationship.

Lifestyle Compatibility

Let’s get down to brass tacks. If your idea of a wild Friday night is lounging on the couch, a high-energy mix might not be the ideal companion to share the couch. Conversely, if you’re the outdoorsy type who lives for weekend hiking trips, you may want a mix that can keep up with your adventurous spirit.

Family Dynamics

The kids, your significant other, even the cranky cat—everyone’s got a say in this decision. Some Great Pyrenees mixes are more suited for families with older children, while others are adaptable enough for a bustling household with toddlers running around like human tornadoes.

Square Footage Matters

These are big dogs we’re talking about, not goldfish. They need room to stretch, run, and perhaps even engage in an occasional zoomie. If you’re in an apartment, you’ll need to critically assess if you have enough room and a nearby park for those essential outdoor jaunts.

It’s a Commitment

Sure, those fluffy faces are impossible to resist, but owning a dog comes with strings attached. In this case, those strings involve a leash and a solid commitment to regular exercise and socialization.

Given their guardian heritage, these hybrids often have strong protective instincts that need to be managed with early socialization.

Exercise and Socialization

Don’t underestimate the power of a good run or an interactive play session. These dogs need their physical and mental workouts to stay balanced and happy. Socialization isn’t a one-off event; it’s an ongoing process.

Consistent encounters with different people, animals, and environments are key to raising a well-adjusted canine citizen.

Choosing the right Great Pyrenees mix is a holistic affair, involving a lot more than an emotional response to those puppy eyes. It’s about fitting a living, breathing being into the intricacies of your daily life. Choose wisely, and the rewards will be immeasurable.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of Great Pyrenees mixes can be a riveting experience. After all, it’s not every day that you come across such a variety of characteristics encapsulated in a single breed, let alone in its hybrids.

Whether you’re looking for a high-energy companion or a stoic guardian, there’s a Great Pyrenees mix out there to fit your needs.

Featured Image Credit: April Stevenson, Shutterstock