Great Dane vs Great Pyrenees

Working · Giant vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 100 lbs for the Great Pyrenees.
  • The Great Pyrenees typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Great Dane has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Great Dane sheds less.
  • The Great Dane is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat DaneGreat Pyrenees
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
GiantGiant
Origin
GermanyFrance
Height (male)
30–32"27–32"
Height (female)
28–30"25–29"
Weight (male)
140–175 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
110–140 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 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.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)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
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.

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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Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems