Australian Terrier vs Great Pyrenees

Terrier · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
  • The Australian Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
  • The Australian Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
  • The Australian Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian TerrierGreat Pyrenees
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
AustraliaFrance
Height (male)
10–11"27–32"
Height (female)
10–11"25–29"
Weight (male)
15–20 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
15–20 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.

About the Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from France, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as patient, smart, strong-willed.

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Australian Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems