Breed Information

Remains of this breed have been found in fossil deposits of the Bronze Age, which dates their appearance in Europe around 1000 BC. It's believed that they originally came from Central Asia or Siberia and followed the Aryan migration into Europe.

With the diminution of the wild beasts in the Pyrenees, the breed seemed destined to extinction. They were eagerly sought after by breeders in continental Europe and great numbers were exported from France. Thanks to the efforts of some of the sportsmen, a well as to the fact that the dogs were of use about the peasants' farms in winter, they were bred in increasing numbers.

They are confident, gentle and affectionate dogs. They are very territorial and protective of their family, though generally they are very quiet dogs.

Males should be 27-32 inches tall, females 25-29 inches. They should weigh between 85-100 pounds. They should be white, or white with markings of gray, badger, reddish brown, or varying shades of tan. Their coat requires brushing several times a week to keep their coats matt free, and they may also require some trimming on their hind end to make sure feces does not get matted up in their hair.