The Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees share many similarities, often leading to confusion between the two breeds. However, distinct traits make each breed unique and special in its own right.
While both breeds naturally drool, Maremma Sheepdogs tend to drool more due to their longer muzzles. When it comes to temperament, the Great Pyrenees is generally the gentler of the two, stemming from its working dog lineage. Additionally, Maremma Sheepdog puppies are typically more affordable.
From physical characteristics to historical backgrounds, the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees have several differences that might surprise you. Explore these distinctions below!
24. Child Friendliness
Choosing a dog that is child-friendly is essential when young ones are present at home. Although both breeds are large, one is relatively more suitable for families with young children.
The Great Pyrenees is lively, which may be overwhelming for small kids. Conversely, the Maremma Sheepdog is known for its gentler and calmer disposition, making interactions with children much easier.
23. Weather Tolerance
Regardless of whether you live in a hot or cold climate, considering a dog’s ability to withstand different weather conditions is crucial for its comfort. Both breeds have thick, fluffy coats, making them generally well-suited for colder climates.
However, the Great Pyrenees have an edge over the Maremma when it comes to frigid conditions, thanks to their denser fur and heightened ability to cope with heavy snow.
22. Weight
Both breeds are indeed large and hefty. However, when compared side by side, the Great Pyrenees is noticeably heavier than the Maremma. Males of the Pyr typically weigh around 100 lbs, with females starting at 85 lbs. Maremma males usually weigh under 100 lbs, while females range between 66 and 88 lbs.
21. Height
The height distinction between these large breeds isn’t drastic, yet it underlines that these dogs are not suited for apartment living; they require ample space for comfort.
Male Great Pyrenees reach about 32 inches at the shoulder, while females are slightly shorter at around 30 inches. In contrast, male Maremmas stand approximately 29 inches tall, while females measure around 27 inches.
20. Ears
A simple way to differentiate these two breeds is by examining their ears. The Great Pyrenees features low-set ears that may perk up slightly when alert or excited, with rounded tips.
In comparison, the Maremma Sheepdog has high-set ears positioned just above the zygomatic arch level with triangular shapes and pointed tips.
19. Origin
Both breeds hail from Europe but originate from different regions. The Maremma Sheepdog is native to Italy, tracing back approximately 2,000 years. However, the Great Pyrenees has an even longer history, having originated in the Pyrenees Mountains along the Spanish and French borders for around 11,000 years.
17. Purpose
Both breeds were originally bred to serve as guard dogs, primarily to protect livestock from predators and thieves. While their roles have evolved, their innate instincts remain.
The Great Pyrenees serves as both a flock guardian and a working dog, while the Maremma has retained its primary role as a guard dog, displaying overprotectiveness.
16. Shedding
Though both breeds are equipped with thick, double coats, there’s a noticeable contrast between their fur. They shed seasonally, but the Great Pyrenees has a longer coat, which is more prone to tangling.
Maremma Sheepdogs feature shorter coats that are easier to maintain, leading to less shedding overall compared to their Pyr counterparts.
15. Temperament
Both breeds are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them beloved family pets. They are gentle and intelligent, providing a secure environment for their families.
However, the Great Pyrenees can be more stubborn compared to the Maremma, which might test your patience. Thus, early socialization and training are crucial for success with these dogs.
14. Trainability
Both the Maremma and the Great Pyrenees possess high intelligence, which aids in training. Nevertheless, intelligence alone doesn’t guarantee successful training results.
The Maremma naturally wants to please its owner, making it more responsive to commands, hence it tends to learn faster than the Great Pyrenees, which can demonstrate a more independent and strong-willed demeanor requiring additional patience from trainers.
13. Life Expectancy
With proper care, both the Great Pyrenees and the Maremma Sheepdog can enjoy lengthy lives. However, genetic predispositions and health conditions differ between the two breeds.
Typically, Maremma Sheepdogs have a lifespan of about 10 to 14 years, whereas Great Pyrenees tend to live around 10 to 12 years on average. Lifestyle choices and the health of their parents can influence these averages.
12. Health
As large breeds, both the Maremma and the Great Pyrenees can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. However, Maremma Sheepdogs generally exhibit better health compared to the Great Pyrenees.
Great Pyrenees are more prone to developing cancer and other hereditary conditions, including eye issues and hormonal disorders. Adequate care and a nutritious diet are essential for mitigating health risks.
11. Energy Level
Neither breed is particularly hyper or overly energetic, although they do require regular exercise. The Great Pyrenees needs about an hour of daily activity, while a Maremma typically requires slightly less.
Due to their thick fur, Great Pyrenees should avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
10. Noise Level
The Maremma Sheepdog and Great Pyrenees are both vocal breeds, originally bred for guarding purposes. Their intelligence and sensitivity to their environment lead to frequent barking; however, the Great Pyrenees tends to be louder than the Maremma.
9. Appearance
Both breeds possess strong physiques and thick white double coats reminiscent of polar bears. Their coats are particularly dense around the neck, aiding them in cold climates.
However, the tails differ; Maremma Sheepdogs have bushy tails that lend a rugged appearance compared to the Great Pyrenees, which may have wavy or straight coats with a fluffy texture.
8. Coat
While both breeds are commonly white, variations exist. Maremma Sheepdogs usually showcase plain white coats, occasionally featuring hints of ivory, lemon, or pale orange. The Great Pyrenees, while predominantly white, might also exhibit cream or white fur adorned with reddish-brown, badger, gray, or light tan markings.
7. Physical And Mental Stimulation
Maremma Sheepdogs excel in environments that promote mental engagement, thanks to their background as guard dogs requiring independent thinking. Engaging them in puzzles, fetch, or hikes keeps them content and well-rounded.
While the Great Pyrenees can manage with less stimulation, they are prone to boredom and anxiety if left without activities, necessitating interactive toys or activities like jogging and carting.
6. Intelligence
Both breeds demonstrate intelligence, with Maremma Sheepdogs particularly excelling in independent problem-solving and learning tricks swiftly.
The Great Pyrenees possesses average intelligence but is more prone to losing interest quickly, leading to challenges during training sessions.
5. Guarding Skills
Both the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees have strong instincts for guarding. Their training is centered around protecting their families and property.
However, the Great Pyrenees uniquely combines natural protective instincts with nurturing behaviors, making them exceptional flock guardians.
4. Official Club Recognition
The Maremma Sheepdog is recognized by several clubs worldwide, except for the American Kennel Club (AKC), although it holds recognition with the United Kennel Club (UKC).
In contrast, the Great Pyrenees is acknowledged by the AKC and has been classified as part of the working group since 1933.
3. Price
Both the Maremma Sheepdog and Great Pyrenees aren’t especially common, which can affect their pricing depending on location.
Maremma puppies generally cost between $600 and $800, especially more affordable in Italy, their country of origin. Conversely, Great Pyrenees prices start around $1,000 and can reach up to $2,500 for those with top-line bloodlines.
2. Aggression
Overall, Maremma Sheepdogs may exhibit more aggressive tendencies as a result of their guarding background. They may bark or growl when feeling threatened and can be quite territorial.
On the other hand, Great Pyrenees are more laid back and less aggressive. While they might bark occasionally to communicate with their humans, they generally maintain a calmer demeanor.
1. Drooling Level
If drool isn’t your favorite feature, you may want to reconsider these breeds, as both can be prone to drooling. However, the Great Pyrenees typically drools less than the Maremma Sheepdog due to their shorter muzzles.
The Maremma’s longer muzzle makes it more likely to let drool escape, often resulting in spills.
Related Questions
Is Maremma Bigger Than Great Pyrenees? No, the Great Pyrenees is larger than the Maremma Sheepdog. On average, Great Pyrenees weigh between 100 to 160 lbs and stand 32 to 36 inches tall at the shoulder, while Maremma Sheepdogs range from 55 to 100 lbs and reach approximately 26 to 30 inches at the shoulder.
Are Pyrenees And Maremma Related? No, the Great Pyrenees and Maremma Sheepdog are distinct breeds. The Great Pyrenees, a large working dog, was bred to guard flocks of sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains of France. Conversely, Maremma Sheepdogs, also known as Maremmano-Abruzzese, were developed in Italy for livestock protection from predators. Although they share similar traits, they have unique characteristics stemming from their distinct histories.
Are Pyrenees And Maremma Related? Great Pyrenees can be a good option for first-time dog owners with the right experience and resources. However, they require consistent, firm training, socialization, and daily physical activity as they are large, independent, and strong-minded breeds. Potential owners should research and assess whether these traits align with their lifestyle.
