Great Pyrenees vs Skye Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 35–45 lbs for the Skye Terrier.
  • The Skye Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Skye Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Skye Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat PyreneesSkye Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
FranceScotland
Height (male)
27–32"10"
Height (female)
25–29"9.5"
Weight (male)
100 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
85 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism