The Newfie Great Pyrenees mix, also known as the Newfound Pyrenees, is a crossbreed of two beloved large dog breeds: the Newfoundland and the Great Pyrenees. Known for their impressive size, gentle temperament, and loyal nature, these dogs are a fantastic choice for families looking for a protective yet affectionate companion. Whether you’re considering adopting one or simply curious about this magnificent hybrid, this guide will explore everything you need to know about the Newfie Great Pyrenees mix.
1. What is a Newfie Great Pyrenees Mix?
The Newfie Pyrenees mix is the result of breeding a Newfoundland with a Great Pyrenees. Both parent breeds are known for their history of working alongside humans—Newfoundlands were originally bred as water rescue dogs, while Great Pyrenees were traditionally used as livestock guardians. Combining the best traits of these two breeds, the Newfie Great Pyrenees offers a unique blend of loyalty, strength, and calm demeanor.
This Newfoundland Great Pyrenees mix typically inherits the large size and heavy coat of both breeds, making them suited to cold climates. With proper socialization and training, these dogs can excel as family pets, therapy dogs, and even working dogs.
2. Physical Characteristics of the Newfie Pyrenees Mix
One of the first things you’ll notice about a Great Pyrenees Newfoundland mix is their size. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 100 to 150 pounds and stand between 26 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Their size alone makes them a commanding presence, but they are typically gentle giants at heart.
Coat and Color
The Newfoundland Pyrenees mix tends to have a thick, double coat that can range in color from black, white, gray, and brown, with some even sporting the iconic black-and-white Newfoundland coloring or the all-white coat of a Great Pyrenees. Regular grooming is a must, as their coats shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes.
Lifespan and Health
The Newfie Pyr mix generally has a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. While generally healthy, they can be prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart issues, common in larger breeds. Regular veterinary checkups and a balanced diet tailored for large breeds can help mitigate some of these concerns.
3. Temperament and Personality
A Newfie Great Pyrenees mix is known for its calm, gentle, and protective personality. They inherit the loyalty and intelligence of the Newfoundland and the watchful, protective instincts of the Great Pyrenees, making them ideal family pets.
Great with Families
These dogs are excellent with children, often forming deep bonds with their families. Their patient nature makes them well-suited for households with young kids. However, due to their size, supervision around very small children is advisable.
Protective but Gentle
Though generally calm and laid-back, the Pyrenees Newfie mix can be protective of their loved ones. Their Pyrenees lineage gives them strong guardian instincts, so they will watch over their family or property with vigilance. Despite their protective nature, they are not typically aggressive and respond well to proper socialization from a young age.
4. Exercise and Training Needs
While the Newfoundland Pyrenees mix is not as high-energy as some working breeds, they still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A large yard where they can roam or long daily walks will suffice. These dogs also enjoy activities such as hiking and swimming, thanks to their Newfoundland heritage.
Training Tips
Training a Newfie Pyr mix can be challenging due to their independent streak, especially from their Pyrenees side. They are intelligent dogs, but they can sometimes be stubborn or aloof. Positive reinforcement and consistent training are key to managing their behavior. Early socialization is also essential to ensure they are well-behaved around other pets and strangers.
5. Grooming and Maintenance
The Great Pyrenees mixed with Newfoundland requires regular grooming due to their thick, double-layered coat. Expect to brush them at least two to three times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. During seasonal shedding, more frequent brushing may be needed.
Shedding and Coat Care
Both parent breeds shed heavily, and the Newfie Pyrenees is no exception. Regular brushing will help keep the shedding under control and maintain a healthy coat. Bathing should be done as needed, but not too frequently, as over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.
Other Grooming Tasks
In addition to coat care, it’s essential to trim their nails regularly, check their ears for debris or infection, and brush their teeth. Dental care is often overlooked in large breeds, but it’s crucial for their overall health.
6. Diet and Nutrition
Due to their large size, a Newfoundland Great Pyrenees mix dog requires a diet rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Look for large breed formulas designed to support joint health, as they are prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is particularly problematic in large breeds as it exacerbates joint and heart issues.
Feeding Schedule
Puppies should be fed smaller, more frequent meals, while adult Newfie Pyrenees can be fed two meals a day. Be mindful of their calorie intake, as overfeeding can quickly lead to excessive weight gain.
7. Is the Newfie Great Pyrenees Mix Right for You?
The Newfie Great Pyrenees mix is not for everyone. Their large size, grooming needs, and protective nature make them better suited for experienced dog owners with ample space and time to dedicate to their care. They thrive in homes with large, securely fenced yards and enjoy being part of a family. Apartments or small homes may not be ideal for these giants.
Pros:
- Loyal, protective, and affectionate
- Great with children and other pets
- Suitable for cold climates
- Calm and gentle demeanor
Cons:
- Requires regular grooming and coat maintenance
- Large size can be challenging in small spaces
- May be stubborn and difficult to train without consistency
- Prone to certain health issues
8. Finding a Newfie Great Pyrenees Mix
If you’ve decided that the Newfie Pyr mix is the right fit for you, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder or adoption service. Ethical breeders will ensure that both parent dogs are healthy and well-cared for, and they will screen for genetic issues common in both breeds. Rescue organizations may also have Newfoundland Great Pyrenees mixes available for adoption.
Be prepared to ask the breeder about the health history of the parents, and ensure you are getting a puppy from a responsible source.
Conclusion
The Newfie Great Pyrenees mix is a remarkable dog, blending the best of two beloved large breeds. With the right care, training, and environment, these dogs can make a fantastic addition to your family. Whether you’re looking for a gentle companion or a protective watchdog, the Newfound Pyrenees offers a unique and rewarding pet experience.
FAQs about the Newfoundland and Great Pyrenees Mix
What is a Newfoundland and Great Pyrenees mix called?
A Newfoundland and Great Pyrenees mix is often called a Newfie Pyrenees, Newfound Pyrenees, or simply a Newfie Pyr mix. This hybrid breed combines the traits of both the Newfoundland and the Great Pyrenees, resulting in a large, gentle, and protective dog.
Which is bigger, Great Pyrenees or Newfoundland?
The Newfoundland is generally bigger than the Great Pyrenees. Male Newfoundlands can weigh between 130-150 pounds, while male Great Pyrenees typically weigh between 100-120 pounds. Newfoundlands are also stockier and heavier, while Great Pyrenees tend to have a more slender, athletic build.
What is the lifespan of a Newfoundland Pyrenees?
The Newfoundland Pyrenees mix has an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years. This lifespan is typical for large dog breeds, though maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine vet care can help maximize their longevity.
Is a Great Pyrenees a friendly dog?
Yes, the Great Pyrenees is known to be a very friendly and gentle dog, especially with family members and children. While they have strong protective instincts, they are generally calm and affectionate, making them excellent companions for families. Early socialization helps them become more open to strangers and other animals.