Pyrenean Mountain Dog Hereditary Health & Testing Guide

The Pyrenean mountain dog, also known as the Great Pyrenees, is a magnificent large breed originally bred as a livestock guardian in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain. Males can reach up to 32” tall and weigh as much as 54kg, with females slightly smaller. Their striking white double coat with grey, tan, or rust markings, plumed tail, distinctive feathered legs, and unique two sets of dewclaws on the hind legs make them truly special.

If you're drawn to this large, furry, white breed and considering ownership, it's vital to understand their general health, potential hereditary conditions, and average lifespan. This knowledge supports responsible ownership and ethical breeding practices that prioritise the dog's wellbeing.

Average Lifespan and Genetic Diversity

The Pyrenean mountain dog typically lives for 10-11 years, which is slightly lower than the average for all dog breeds but within the expected range for large, robust breeds. A positive health indicator is the breed's coefficient of inbreeding at approximately 3.7%, lower than the general pedigree acceptance level of 6.25%. This suggests good genetic diversity and less intensive inbreeding, which supports long-term breed health.

Key Health Concerns and Conformation Factors

The breed's conformation is mostly balanced and proportionate, reducing risks linked to body structure. However, certain health issues linked to size and coat colour deserve attention:

• The breed's predominantly white coat increases the risk of hereditary deafness, a condition found in some white-coated dogs.
• The large size and weight can strain the skeletal system, especially in growing puppies, so cautious management of exercise is essential to prevent joint and bone problems.
• The characteristic eye shape can predispose some dogs to medical canthal pocket syndrome, causing dust and dirt accumulation at the eye corners, leading to irritation or damage.

Critical Health Testing Recommendations

Both the Kennel Club and the British Veterinary Association strongly recommend pre-breeding health tests for the Pyrenean mountain dog, helping breeders select healthy parents and reduce hereditary disease incidence. Health testing benefits the breed's welfare and promotes responsible ownership.

Current recommended tests include:

• Hip Score Testing: The breed's average hip score is around 10.4. Selecting dogs with scores below this helps reduce hip dysplasia prevalence.
• DNA Tests for Eye Disorders: To screen for multifocal retinopathy, a disease leading to retinal lesions and potential detachment.
• DNA Tests for Degenerative Myelopathy: A spinal cord condition causing progressively worsening weakness and paralysis.
• DNA Tests for Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia Type 1: A clotting disorder that can cause severe mucosal bleeding.

Additional Hereditary and Health Issues to Watch For

Other conditions without routine screening include:

• Epilepsy: Manageable in many cases with medication, but epileptic dogs should not be bred.
• Hereditary Deafness: Particularly in dogs with white coats; can impact quality of life and training.
• Factor One Deficiency: A bleeding disorder affecting blood clotting ability.
• Tricuspid Dysplasia: Malformation of a heart valve potentially leading to heart failure.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation or slipping of the kneecaps, causing pain and mobility issues.
• Panosteitis: Bone inflammation common in young growing dogs, causing lameness.
• Cancers: Including osteosarcoma and sweat gland tumours, requiring veterinary evaluation and care.
• Osteochondrosis: Shoulders affected by cartilage disorders causing lameness.
• Entropion: Eyelids rolling inward, irritating the cornea and causing discomfort.

Promoting Responsible Pyrenean Mountain Dog Ownership

Understanding these hereditary health concerns and participating in recommended health tests are paramount to ensuring a happy, healthy life for your Pyrenean mountain dog. Always seek puppies from reputable breeders who perform these health checks and focus on genetic diversity.

Managing exercise carefully, monitoring for early signs of any conditions, and scheduling regular veterinary check-ups will help you give your dog the best care possible. Responsible ownership means committing to a lifelong partnership that prioritises the dog's wellbeing above all.