Boston Terrier vs Great Pyrenees

Non-Sporting · Small vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
  • The Boston Terrier typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Boston Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boston Terrier sheds less.
  • The Boston Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBoston TerrierGreat Pyrenees
Group
Non-SportingWorking
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
USAFrance
Height (male)
15–17"27–32"
Height (female)
15–17"25–29"
Weight (male)
12–25 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
12–25 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.

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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Boston Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Eye problems
  • Patellar luxation
  • Allergies

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems