Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix Facts

A mix between a German Shepherd and a Great Pyrenees, the hybrid commonly called a “Shepnees” is a large dog that makes for a good watchdog. This breed usually herds livestock, especially sheep and goats.

This hybrid is not commonly found in the wild, and while there are available puppies in shelters sometimes, your best option when looking for this breed is through a breeder.

The Great Pyrenees German Shepherd mix is quite an intelligent breed. They are also brave and are serious. They are also described to be strong-willed and confident dogs. They are also strong and powerful despite being quiet. Another thing that must be noted of them is that they are highly alert with strong protective instincts.

Due to the arctic upbringing of its parent breeds, Great Pyrenees German Shepherd hybrids are best to be raised in cold weathers. While they can survive and live in relatively hotter areas, you must be careful to keep them comfortable because they can get hot fast.

3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Get a Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Cross

1. They require frequent trips to the veterinary.

The German Shepherd parentage of this hybrid has brought about arising health concerns that will require frequent trips to the veterinary along with the numerous tests your dog will have to undergo. Some of the significant health concerns one must look out for is deafness, bloat, and a heart murmur. Veterinary clinic trips will help in the early detection of diseases that the hybrid may contract.

2. They are large dogs.

Being a crossbreed between two large dogs, a Great Pyrenees German Shepherd cross is only expected to be massive too. They are not recommended for people who live in small apartments since they can tumble around and break things in the process. A growing Germanees will also need a lot of space since they would require highly physical activities. A house with a shaded but open backyard is recommended for this breed.

3. They require highly physical activities.

German Shepherd Great Pyrenees hybrids are highly active dogs who will need a lot of physical activities. This will include different kinds of training like occasional hiking to keep their mind and body healthy. Daily walks are also required of them. This breed is also prone to obesity so you can’t just pass on their exercise requirements; otherwise, the obesity will lead to worse complications.

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Hybrid

• They make excellent family dogs.

With its playful temperament, kids will love playing with this hybrid. Even other house pets like cats will have no problem mingling with this dog. Just make sure that the breed is trained to be around people at a young age and that they are socialized properly. There are dog parks which can help them in both socialization and training.

• They are intelligent dogs.

Because of its German Shepherd parentage, this hybrid is also considered to be intelligent. While training at a young age is essential for well-behaved dogs of all breeds, the Shepnees will have no problem picking up on lessons. Positive reinforcement like praises and treats is the most effective way when training your dog.

• They make excellent guard dogs.

Since both of its parent breeds are either made to be watchdogs or herding dogs, the hybrid makes for a good guard dog. Its loyal temperament is mixed with protectiveness and highly alert instincts.

Other German Shepherd & Great Pyrenees Mixes

Choosing the dog breed that aligns with your lifestyle is the most important decision you can make. Every year tens of thousands of dogs are abandoned or put up for adoption because the owner was irresponsible and didn’t do their research before choosing a dog that isn’t a great for their lifestyle.

Not sure the Great Pyrenees German Shepherd aligns with your lifestyle? Consider adopting one of 50+ popular German Shepherd mixes or Great Pyrenees mixes.

Here are the most popular German Shepherd Mixes:

German Shepherd Beagle Mix	German Shepherd Lab Mix
German Shepherd Australian Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
Doberman German Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix
Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
Great Dane German Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Poodle Mix
Malamute German Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Boxer Mix
Blue Heeler German Shepherd Mix	German Shepherd Chow Mix

Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Great Pyrenees Crossbred with German Shepherd

Weight	75 to 120 pounds
Height	22 to 32 inches
Size	Large
Coat Type	Straight, Extremely Dense, Medium in length with a mane-like ruff that is wavy or curly
Coat Color	Black, White, Fawn
Amount of Shedding	Quite a bit
Eyes	Dark Brown
Nose	Black
Ears	Maybe erect or drop
Temperament	Energetic, Playful, Intelligent, Protective, Fearless, Sweet, Loyal, Gentle
Life Expectancy	12 years
Hypoallergenic	No
Kids Friendly	Yes
New Owners Friendly	Yes
Breed Recognition	Dog Registry of America, Inc.; American Kennel Club

The Great Pyrenees crossbred with German Shepherd can weigh from 75 up to 120 pounds and grow tall up to 32 inches from their foot to the tip of their ears. There isn’t much difference when it comes to the stature of the male and female Germanees. This breed has a muscular and robust size, aside from being a large and long dog, since both its parent breeds tend to be so.

They have a straight and extremely dense coat which sheds quite a bit, so daily brushing is a prerequisite. Their fur is also medium in length, and the colors may vary between black, white, fawn, and other similar shades. The breed can also develop a mane-like ruff around its neck area which will have a curly or wavy texture. Their eyes are almond-shaped and colored dark brown. Its nose, along with the eye rims and lips, is colored black, creating an expression that makes them look intelligent and eager to learn. Their ears can either be erect or drop, depending on which parent trait is more evident. Its head will be wedge-shaped and is well-proportioned to its body.

The Germanees’ parent breeds have different temperaments so it might be hard to predict how your dog will behave. But to counter this, you will need to train them consistently with much patience. The dog will likely want to be tasked with something whether it be guarding or protecting your kids, or helping you herd the family cat.

As for now, there are two dog registries in which the German Shepherd Great Pyrenees hybrid is recognized:

• Dog Registry of America, Inc.
• American Kennel Club

German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix Puppies For Sale

Before you start looking for hybrid puppies on sale online, it is advisable to conduct a research first regarding the German Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix because it will allow you to form coherent and essential questions for when you talk to a breeder.

You can find Germanees in your local dog shelter, but if you prefer raising one from scratch, the other option is to talk to a breeder. Make sure that the breeder you found is a reputable one. A trustworthy breeder will supply you with the complete documents of the hybrid parents, which includes their medical history. If a breeder fails to show you these kinds of records, then it is time to find a new one because the chances are that the hybrid puppy has many medical risks.

Meeting the breeder personally, along with the dog, will help you assess your compatibility with the puppy. Moreover, you can ask the breeder essential questions regarding the upbringing of the puppy.

If you still wish to purchase puppies online, below is a list of online sites that offer various dog breeds and crossbreeds:

1. LancasterPuppies.com
2. AdoptAPet.com
3. Petfinder.com
4. GreenfieldPuppies.com

Again, remember to make sure that the breeder is a reputable one to avoid complications with the Shepnees while it is still growing.

Grooming Your German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Hybrid

Your hybrid can possess a thick coat, and if it does, you will have to regularly check their ears because the fur may block air flow in that area. Too much moisture and dirt accumulation is a prerequisite for an infection so make sure that you brush your dog daily to avoid tangling in their coat. Doing so can also lessen loose clumps of fur. When the shedding is particularly heavy at times, you can opt to use a de-shedding tool. You will also have to trim excess hair around their eyes, ears, and legs to keep them comfortable.

A bath now and then is also recommended, but extra caution is needed because the German Shepherd parent may have a history of skin issues. Its nails will be hard and strong, but a regular check is necessary to make sure that it doesn’t grow too long. Since the dog has an active temperament, the nails should also be checked for breakage and brittleness. Their teeth will need to be brushed a few times in a week.

Here are some recommended accessories you might need in taking care of your dog:

• Pin brush
• Comb
• Deshedder
• Nail clipper

If you are not confident enough, you can also opt to take your dog to pet salons where they can socialize with other dogs. Expert pet groomers will also be better equipped in taking care of your dog since they know what they are dealing with.

German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Cross Health Problems

While all breeds are susceptible to develop health problems brought about by their genetic upbringing, some races are more vulnerable than others. One of the ways you can avoid this is by buying or adopting a puppy instead of a grown dog.

The breeder from whom you got your puppy must offer you a health guarantee on the puppies. If they failed to do this, then it might be time for you to look for another certified breeder. A breeder with a good reputation will be honest about the health problems that the breed of your puppy may be exposed to as well as the statistics of how often they occur. Health clearances exist as a way to prove that your dog has been subjected to tests for a particular condition and has passed it.

Remember not to purchase a puppy who cannot provide you with proper documentation that the parent breeds were cleared of possible health problems that might affect the crossbreed in the future.

One of the most common problems that a German Shepherd Great Pyrenees cross may face is hip and elbow dysplasia. This can be prevented with frequent trips to the veterinary clinic for early detection. Another issue to look out for is obesity. You can keep your dog occupied by meeting their daily requirement exercise. Consulting a veterinarian for the best diet course can also help your dog prevent obesity.

Other concerns also include deafness, bloat, heart murmur, atopy, von Willebrand’s disease, ectropion, cataract, epilepsy, and diabetes. It is also advisable that they undergo random tests like x-rays, eye examination, fecal examination, urinalysis, complete blood count, skin biopsy, buccal mucosal bleeding time, and skin scrape. This is to ensure and monitor that your dog is at its healthiest peak.

German Shepherd Crossbred with Great Pyrenees Food Requirements

Each dog diet varies greatly depending on the individual canine. Dogs have different dietary requirements from others. Since this breed is prone to obesity, it is best not to overfeed them. Obesity can lead to worse health conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia. This can be prevented by training your dog to get used to foods that are rich in fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin. To that end, we suggest the Wellness Core Dog Food, Dog For Dog Food, and the Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Another course of action is by feeding them with using the Raw Food Diet.

To get you started, we recommend you take a look at our comprehensive guides on what constitutes the worst dry dog food and what makes the best dry dog food. Then, you can proceed to select the right food for your pup according to their size and age. Great Pyrenees German Shepherd mix puppies can be fed with the best puppy food brands, but they also enjoy nibbling the best dry dog food for small dogs. When they are all grown up, you can switch to the best large breed dry dog food that will ensure they get all the energy they need. Finally, old doggos require something extra that only the best senior dry dog food can provide.

Here are some of the best puppy food you can feed your growing pet:

• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken, and Brown Rice

This brand features a nutritious dry dog food that will provide your pet all the needed nutrition it requires while growing. Some of its notable ingredients are the deboned chicken, whole grains, and carbohydrates. It is also rich in omega three fatty acids and anti-oxidants. Some customer reviews also showed that the taste was delicious for their dogs so much that it can be used as a treat.

• Wellness Complete Health Large Breed Dry Puppy Food

Made with the best ingredients including various protein-rich foods, anti-oxidant rich fruits, and vegetables, this dog food is designed to meet the needs of your growing canines. Some of its notable features include deboned chicken and a variety of fruits and vegetables, including apples, spinach, and carrots. It is also backed by the manufacturer’s wellness guarantee. Customers were pleased to find that the long list of ingredients is of top quality.

• BLUE Wilderness High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food

This brand is a grain-free option that is packed with proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that your dog needs growing up. Its formulation does not include corn, wheat or rice, but instead boasts five different probiotic strains. It is also made under the strict safety guidelines of the USA. Customers also noted that their pets had a shinier coat, in addition to the elimination of their dog’s itchy skin. Some even added a noticeable change in their pets’ elevated energy level.

• NUTRO Wholesome Essentials Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

If you want your dog to be in a strictly organic diet, this brand will be perfect for you because of its non-GMO ingredients. Filled with multiple protein sources, high-quality carbonates, and dried fruits and vegetables, this brand is made to provide your dog with the best possible nutrition. NUTRO Wholesome Essentials is made without artificial flavors, colors, or additives. Instead of corn or wheat, the carbohydrate source for this brand is brown rice and sweet potatoes. In case your dog is not satisfied with this food, the company offers a money back guarantee.

• Instinct Raw Boost Large Breed Puppy Food by Nature’s Variety

Super premium dog food made with small pieces of freeze-dried raw meat, Instinct Raw Boost is a brand that features a grain-free recipe. The brand also boasts protein-rich food sources, like chicken, eggs, and liver, and high-value carbohydrates in place of corn and wheat. It also contains salmon oil and herring meal to provide omega three fatty acids. Made in the USA, you can guarantee that it is made with only the finest ingredients in the market. Just make sure that your dog gets enough exercise while taking this because the calorie-dense food can make your dog gain weight.

While these brands have good reviews and are popular in the market, it is still best to consult your local veterinarian for the best diet regime you can subject your dog to.

Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix Exercise Requirements

Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix are ideal candidates for obedience and agility lessons. Due to its Great Pyrenees parentage, the hybrid might possess stubborn tendencies, but his eagerness to learn new traits can overrule that. Its craving for work can be fulfilled by subjecting him to activities that will involve a class or a task at hand. Dog parks can be a good site for this, not to mention that it is also a place to help your dog socialize with others. Making sure that you are working with your dog most of the time is also a must so that he doesn’t get too bored. Experts also suggest using consistency in his training to absorb the lessons better.

Being a highly active dog, daily walks are a must. Check the weather and schedule your exercises during cooler times of the day since cold is more favorable for the hybrid. A backyard can also be a perfect place for your dog to play, make sure that you keep them company and that there is plenty of shade outside.

The recommended daily minutes of activity is at least 60 minutes while the walk must have at least a 14 miles weekly mileage.

Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Hybrid Training

Training them at an early age can help your dog be the best they can be. The best type of training you can subject your dog to are obedience, agility, and consistency training.

To help you get started, here are some tips that can help you in training your dog’s agility at home:

1. Side. Agility dogs must be able to walk by your right and left side. You can present them with rewards if they are behaving significantly.
2. Wrap. Teaching your dog to turn around a cone or barrel can prepare them for over and between jumps in the future.
3. Tricks. These lessons can increase your dog’s confidence, aptitude, and coordination, which are all needed in agility training.
4. Moving Items. Platforms like skateboards and children’s wagons are perfect tools to teach your dog that putting their paws on moving things is not scary. You can start by encouraging your pet to merely look at the item first and slowly let them build up to standing on the item by themselves.
5. Jumps. This is one of the most natural training, which you can set up in your home using two chairs and a pole. Keep the pole at a low jump height first, and make sure that the practice surface is not slippery. Also, make sure that the pole can topple once your dog hits it so that your dog will not get hurt during training.

Agility training is suitable for all breeds of dogs, especially those who are anxious, since it helps in building confidence and trust. It also introduces them to new experiences. Remember that positive reinforcement such as treats and praises will significantly assist in instilling lessons in your dog.

German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix and Families

While it has tendencies to be aggressive, the German Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix can also be good with children, much like its parent, German Shepherd. The Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, is a sweet and gentle breed. It is excellent that the hybrid inherited both of its parents’ qualities which makes it good with children too.

The hybrid is also very loyal and protective to family members. As for other house pets, they will have no problem living under the same roof. Since the hybrid also has herding tendencies, it might play around with other house pets. However, constant training, socialization, and patience are still needed in raising this hybrid.

Best Dog Food for Great Pyrenees German Shepherd Mix

Selecting the best dog food for a Great Pyrenees German Shepherd mix is crucial given the size, energy levels, and unique nutritional requirements of this blend. Opt for a high-quality large-breed formula that features real meat as the primary ingredient to support the muscle development and energy needs of both breeds. Given the Great Pyrenees’ thick coat and the German Shepherd’s plush fur, a diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can contribute to a healthy and lustrous coat.

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula - 30 lb. Bag One (1) 30 lb. Bag - Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula Oat meal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system High protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health Used to be known as FOCUS Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula	9.7	Buy on AmazonBuy on Chewy
	Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 30-lb Real meat first: blue buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient; high-quality p For adult dogs: blue life protection formula adult dog food contains essential proteins and carbohyd Antioxidant-rich lifesource bits: a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully s A natural dog food: blue dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vita Contains one (1) 30 lb. bag of blue life protection formula adult dry dog food, chicken and brown ri	9.8	Buy on AmazonBuy on Chewy

References:

1. Madhusudhan, H. S., et al. “Estimation of Maintenance Energy Requirements in German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever Dogs in Bangalore, India.” Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, vol. 102, no. 1, 26 Apr. 2017, doi:10.1111/jpn.12709.
2. Ritt, Mg, and Tw Fossum. “Successful Treatment of Uterine Torsion and Fetal Retention in a Postparturient Great Pyrenees Bitch with Septic Peritonitis and Prothrombotic Complications.” Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, vol. 33, no. 6, Nov. 1997, pp. 537–539., doi:10.5326/15473317-33-6-537.
3. Cunliffe, Juliette. Great Pyrenees. Kennel Club Books, 2009.
4. Coile, D. Caroline. German Shepherds for Dummies. Hungry Minds, 2003.
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Pyrenees