It is generally though that a Pyrenean must be all white, but whilst he is mainly white, it is quite permissible for him to have markings of badger (called blaireau), wolf-grey, or pale yellow. His black nose and eye rims make a striking contrast.

He is a substantial, impressive-looking dog, hardy and healthy. Once used as a guard dog, protecting flocks against wolves, he has a very gentle side to his nature and is affectionate and tolerant with children, making him a popular house pet. One of the largest breeds, he does not reach full maturity until he is three or four years old.

His thick, double coat needs grooming thoroughly at least once a week. He is not tremendously active; a short walk in town, or a long ramble in the country will suit him equally well.

The breed comes from the Pyrenean mountain range in France, where he is known as the Grand Pyrénée. They have guarded flocks in France for centuries and dogs of the type pre-date even the Bronze Age (1800-1000 BC) but are said to have been ‘discovered’ by the French nobility before the Revolution and could be found in the great châteaux. Louis XIV named the breed the Royal Dog of France. As recently as the Second World War, Pyreneans carried messages and packs for French troops.