The Great Pyrenees, known for its gentle disposition and protective instincts, is a majestic breed that’s adored by families and farmers alike. This giant dog breed is as calm as it is devoted, making it a reliable family guardian. While they start out as tiny, fluffy puppies, Great Pyrenees quickly grow into towering protectors with impressive strength.
But just how big will your Great Pyrenees puppy get? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover growth milestones, weight expectations, and factors that affect the development of both male and female Great Pyrenees. Understanding your puppy’s growth will help ensure they reach their full potential as healthy, happy adults.
Quick Facts About the Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees, historically bred to guard flocks in the Pyrenees Mountains, is known for its strength and courage. With an average bite force between 400-600 PSI, these dogs have the natural ability to ward off predators. An interesting feature of the breed is their double dewclaws, a unique trait that helps them climb and provides stability. Unlike many other breeds, these dewclaws should not be removed.
Great Pyrenees are also intelligent and can be prone to boredom, so they need mental stimulation. They are known to be affectionate and often show their devotion by resting a paw on their owners to get attention.
How Big Do Great Pyrenees Puppies Grow?
Great Pyrenees grow rapidly in their first year, with males typically reaching between 27 and 32 inches tall and weighing over 100 pounds (45 kg) when fully grown. Females are slightly smaller, reaching around 25 to 29 inches in height and weighing over 85 pounds (39 kg).
Here’s a detailed look at the typical growth chart for both male and female Great Pyrenees puppies.
If you’re interested in exploring the diverse traits of mixed breeds, visit Great Pyrenees Mixes to discover the unique variations of this amazing breed.
Great Pyrenees Puppy Weight Chart
You can use the guidelines below to measure your Great Pyrenees’ weight accurately and ensure they are growing appropriately for their age. These charts provide average weight ranges for both male and female puppies, helping you monitor their progress effectively.
However, keep in mind that these figures should always be used alongside regular veterinary check-ups. Every dog develops at its own pace, and factors such as genetics, diet, and exercise can significantly influence growth.
Male Great Pyrenees Growth
Male Great Pyrenees puppies tend to be larger and heavier than their female counterparts. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their average weight milestones:
| Age | Average Weight |
| 1 month | 5 – 10 pounds (2.2 – 4.5 kg) |
| 2 months | 15 – 30 pounds (6.8 – 13.6 kg) |
| 3 months | 30 – 40 pounds (13.6 – 18.1 kg) |
| 4 months | 45 – 55 pounds (20.4 – 24.9 kg) |
| 5 months | 60 – 70 pounds (27.2 – 31.7 kg) |
| 6 months | 70 – 80 pounds (31.7 – 36.2 kg) |
| 12 months | over 100 pounds (45 kg) |
| 2 years | over 100 pounds (45 kg) |
Female Great Pyrenees Growth
Female Great Pyrenees puppies, while still large, are generally smaller in both height and weight compared to males. Here’s what you can expect:
| Age | Average Weight |
| 1 month | 5 – 10 pounds (2.2 – 4.5 kg) |
| 2 months | 10 – 25 pounds (4.5 – 11.3 kg) |
| 3 months | 25 – 35 pounds (11.3 – 15.8 kg) |
| 4 months | 35 – 45 pounds (15.8 – 20.4 kg) |
| 5 months | 45 – 55 pounds (20.4 – 24.9 kg) |
| 6 months | 50 – 60 pounds (22.6 – 27.2 kg) |
| 12 months | over 85 pounds (39 kg) |
| 2 years | over 85 pounds (39 kg) |
Growth Stages of the Great Pyrenees Puppy
Tracking your puppy’s growth is essential to ensure they’re developing normally. Here’s a breakdown of the Great Pyrenees’ development stages with growth expectations and key milestones.
0 to 4 Weeks Old: The Newborn Phase
At birth, Great Pyrenees puppies weigh around 1 pound but double in weight within a week. During this stage, they’re entirely dependent on their mother and spend most of their time sleeping and nursing. Their eyes and ears are closed, and they rely on their sense of smell to navigate.
4 Weeks Old (1 Month): The Transitional Phase
By four weeks, puppies begin to stand, crawl, and respond to sounds. They start to explore their surroundings, and you’ll see hints of their personality. At this stage, both male and female puppies weigh between 5 to 10 pounds.
If you’re interested in understanding the cost aspects of raising a Great Pyrenees puppy, you may refer to the Great Pyrenees Price guide for comprehensive insights.
8 Weeks Old (2 Months): The Socialization Phase
Two-month-old Great Pyrenees are social and begin learning basic behavior through interaction with littermates. Males typically weigh 15 to 30 pounds, while females are around 10 to 25 pounds. This is also the ideal time to begin gentle socialization.
12 Weeks Old (3 Months): The Training Phase
At three months, Great Pyrenees puppies are curious and playful, making this a great time for training. They quickly pick up social cues and obedience basics. Male puppies weigh around 30 to 40 pounds, while females weigh 25 to 35 pounds.
16 Weeks Old (4 Months): The Obedience Phase
At four months, Great Pyrenees puppies are refining their understanding of boundaries and commands. Notable developments include:
- Learning and responding to more complex instructions.
- Successfully completing potty training.
Male puppies weigh between 45 and 55 pounds (20.4 to 24.9 kg), while females weigh 35 to 45 pounds (15.8 to 20.4 kg).
20 Weeks Old (5 Months): The Coat Transition Phase
At five months, your puppy begins shedding their baby fur, which is replaced by the adult coat. Males weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, and females weigh 45 to 55 pounds. This is a period of rapid growth, so ensure they’re on a diet suitable for large-breed puppies.
6 Months Old: The Strengthening Phase
At six months, your puppy is building physical strength and needs a nutrient-rich diet to support healthy growth. Key considerations:
- Behavioral changes, such as signs of aggression, should be addressed with positive reinforcement and proper socialization.
- Exercise is essential for their mental and physical well-being.
At this stage, males weigh 70 to 80 pounds (31.7 to 36.2 kg), and females weigh 50 to 60 pounds (22.6 to 27.2 kg).
1 Year Old: The Milestone Phase
At one year, most Great Pyrenees have reached their full height but will continue filling out. Males weigh over 100 pounds (45 kg), and females weigh over 85 pounds (39 kg). Around this age, you’ll also notice their personality fully developing.
Key Factors Influencing Great Pyrenees Growth
The growth and development of Great Pyrenees puppies depend on various factors. Here’s a look at what can influence their size and health.
1. Genetics
The size of the parents is a reliable predictor of your puppy’s adult size. If both parents are large, it’s likely the puppy will be as well. For those considering a mix, comparing breeds can offer insights, as seen in the Great Pyrenees vs Golden Retriever guide.
2. Nutrition
High-quality food formulated for large breeds is essential for Great Pyrenees puppies. Nutrition impacts not only size but also bone and joint health. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity, which can strain joints.
3. Spaying and Neutering
Spaying or neutering your Great Pyrenees at the appropriate age can prevent health issues later in life. Most veterinarians recommend waiting until the dog is fully grown, as early spaying or neutering can affect growth plates and potentially lead to skeletal issues.
4. Health and Veterinary Care
Regular check-ups ensure your puppy is on track with growth and that any health concerns are addressed early. Genetic testing can also help identify any breed-specific health issues.
5. Exercise
While exercise is essential for growth, it should be moderated. Over-exercising a young Great Pyrenees can lead to joint problems, so stick to gentle walks and play sessions until they’re fully grown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if my Great Pyrenees is underweight or overweight?
If your dog appears underweight, consider a higher-protein diet with increased calories to help them build muscle. If they’re overweight, opt for weight-management food and increase exercise gradually. Always consult with your vet before making significant dietary changes.
Can Great Pyrenees grow too fast?
Yes, rapid growth can lead to joint and skeletal issues. Feed them large-breed puppy food to moderate growth and avoid exercise that’s too intense during their early months. Explore popular crossbreeds like the Great Pyrenees Lab Mix to see how their growth might differ.
Do crossbred Great Pyrenees have similar growth patterns?
Crossbreeds like the Golden Pyrenees or Pyrador may vary in size based on the other parent breed. For instance, a Great Pyrenees-Golden Retriever mix may weigh up to 120 pounds, while a Pyrador typically ranges from 55 to 90 pounds.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Great Pyrenees’ Growth Journey
As a giant breed, the Great Pyrenees requires careful monitoring to ensure healthy growth. From a tiny, fluffy puppy to a towering adult, each stage of their development is unique. Factors like genetics, diet, and exercise play critical roles in determining their adult size and overall health. With regular vet visits and a close eye on their weight milestones, you’ll help your Great Pyrenees grow into the magnificent companion they’re meant to be.
If you’re considering a canine companion for your family, explore the list of Best Large Dogs for Families.
Have a Great Pyrenees? We’d love to hear about their growth journey and see pictures in the comments!