The Great Pyrenees Lab mix, commonly known as the Pyrelab, is a hybrid that combines the friendly and outgoing nature of the Labrador Retriever with the protective and independent instincts of the Great Pyrenees. This mix is known for being gentle, intelligent, and loyal, making it a wonderful companion for families and experienced dog owners.
If you’re looking for a large, affectionate, and protective dog, the Pyrelab might be the perfect fit. However, they require plenty of space, training, and exercise to thrive.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Working dog, companion dog |
| Size | Large |
| Height | 23 to 32 inches (58 to 81 cm) |
| Weight | 70 to 110 pounds (32 to 50 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Coat Type | Thick, dense, double coat |
| Colors | White, black, yellow, brown, cream, or a mix |
| Temperament | Loyal, intelligent, gentle, protective |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high |
| Exercise Needs | Daily walks, playtime, training |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal shedding) |
| Trainability | Intelligent but can be independent |
| Average Price | $500 to $1,500 |
| Best For | Families with space, experienced owners, outdoor lovers |
Where Did the Great Pyrenees Lab Mix Come From?
The Pyrelab is a hybrid that combines two well-loved working breeds known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic.
- The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as a fishing and retrieving dog. Labs are known for their trainability, affectionate nature, and love for water.
- The Great Pyrenees was developed in France and Spain to guard livestock in the mountains. They are calm, protective, and independent thinkers who excel at watching over their families.
By mixing these breeds, the Pyrelab inherits a combination of playfulness, protectiveness, and intelligence, making them ideal for active families or those in need of a watchdog.
Meet the Parent Breeds
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, affectionate, and eager to please. They excel in obedience, retrieving, and therapy work, making them one of the most popular family dogs worldwide. Their short, water-resistant coats are easy to maintain, and they love to be active.
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees are strong, protective, and independent dogs bred to guard livestock in mountainous regions. They are calm and gentle but can be stubborn due to their independent thinking. Their thick, fluffy coats require regular grooming, and they tend to be vigilant and protective of their families.
Appearance
Pyrelabs typically inherit a mix of features from both parents, often having:
- A large, muscular build with a deep chest
- A thick, double coat that can be short like a Lab’s or long like a Great Pyrenees’
- Floppy ears and expressive eyes
- A long, bushy tail that may curl slightly
- A coat color that varies from solid yellow, black, or white to a mix of these shades
Temperament and Personality
The Great Pyrenees Lab mix is affectionate, intelligent, and protective. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their gentle nature with children.
Some of their key personality traits include:
- Loyal and affectionate
- Calm but protective (they may bark at strangers)
- Intelligent but sometimes independent
- Energetic and playful but not overly hyper
Because of their strong guarding instincts, Pyrelabs need early socialization and training to ensure they develop into well-mannered pets.
Are Pyrelabs Good with Kids and Other Pets?
Yes! Pyrelabs are great with children due to their gentle and patient temperament. However, their large size means they should be supervised around small kids to prevent accidental knocking over.
They generally get along well with other dogs, especially if raised together. However, due to their guardian instincts, they may be protective of their home and family. Proper introductions are important when bringing them around new animals.
Training and Exercise Needs
Pyrelabs are intelligent but can be independent, meaning training should be firm, consistent, and based on positive reinforcement.
They need moderate to high exercise, including:
- Daily walks and outdoor play
- Obedience training to keep them engaged
- Backyard exploration (if properly fenced)
- Activities like swimming (if they inherit the Lab’s love for water!)
Because of their guardian nature, they should be trained to avoid excessive barking and develop good social behaviors around strangers. For effective techniques suited to breeds like the Pyrelab, explore the Best Dog Training Methods.
Grooming and Shedding
Pyrelabs have thick coats that shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing is necessary to keep their fur manageable.
Grooming tasks include:
- Brushing 3-4 times per week (daily during shedding seasons)
- Bathing every 6-8 weeks
- Trimming nails every few weeks
- Cleaning ears to prevent infections
- Regular dental care to prevent gum disease
Common Health Issues
Great Pyrenees Lab mixes are generally healthy dogs, but they may inherit some genetic conditions from their parent breeds, including:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia (common in large breeds)
- Bloat (gastric torsion) (a life-threatening stomach condition)
- Obesity (Labs love food, so portion control is important)
- Ear infections (common in floppy-eared breeds)
- Allergies and skin problems
Regular vet checkups, a nutritious diet, and an active lifestyle help prevent many of these issues.
How Much Should You Feed a Great Pyrenees Lab Mix?
Pyrelabs require a balanced, high-protein diet to support their large size and energy levels. They typically need 3-5 cups of high-quality dry kibble per day, split into two meals.
To prevent bloat, it’s important to:
- Feed smaller portions instead of one large meal
- Avoid exercise immediately after eating
- Use a slow-feeder bowl if they eat too quickly
How Much Does a Great Pyrenees Lab Mix Cost?
The price for a Pyrelab puppy ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Adoption from a rescue or shelter is often a more affordable option.
Is a Great Pyrenees Lab Mix Right for You?
The Pyrelab is a gentle, intelligent, and protective companion that thrives in homes with space to roam, proper training, and plenty of love. They are best suited for active families, outdoor enthusiasts, and experienced dog owners.