Great Pyrenees Stud Dog: Health Testing, Double Dew Claws, and What to Look For

The Great Pyrenees is one of the great livestock guardian breeds, developed over centuries in the mountains between France and Spain. Massive, serene, and patient, the Pyrenees has also grown significantly as a designer breed cross (Pyredoodle, Great Bernese).

The Double Rear Dew Claw: A Breed Requirement

The double rear dew claw — two functional dew claws on each rear leg — is not a fault in the breed. It is a required trait in the AKC breed standard. A Pyrenees without double rear dew claws does not meet the breed standard. Check dew claws before selecting a stud.

Health Testing Requirements

OFA Hip Evaluation — Good or Excellent

Hip dysplasia is one of the most significant health concerns given their size (males 100-160 lbs). OFA evaluation at 24 months rated Good or Excellent is required.

OFA Elbow Evaluation — Normal

Elbow dysplasia occurs in large breeds. OFA Normal rating recommended.

OFA Patella Evaluation — Normal

Patellar luxation is surprisingly common in Great Pyrenees despite their large size. Grade 0 required.

CAER Eye Examination — Annual

Hereditary eye conditions including cataracts occur. Annual CAER exam recommended.

Cardiac Evaluation

Congenital cardiac conditions occur. OFA cardiac evaluation recommended.

Chondrodysplasia — Awareness

A heritable skeletal condition producing abnormally short, bowed limbs. A disqualifying fault in the breed. Affected dogs should not be bred.

Great Pyrenees Coat and Color

Always white or predominantly white with markings of badger, gray, or varying shades of tan. The double coat has a long, flat weather-resistant outer coat and a thick, dense, soft undercoat. No non-white Pyrenees are purebred.

What Does a Great Pyrenees Stud Fee Cost?

Great Pyrenees stud fees in 2026 typically range from $700 to $2,500 depending on health testing, working titles, verified double rear dew claws, and proven litter quality.

Questions to Ask Before Booking