The main difference between Great Pyrenees and Maremma is their size. Great Pyrenees are typically larger, reaching heights of up to 32 inches and weighing over 100 pounds, while Maremma Sheepdogs are slightly smaller, reaching heights of up to 28.75 inches and weighing 77 to 100 pounds.
Great Pyrenees and Maremma Sheepdogs are two dog breeds known for their unwavering loyalty, protective nature, and majestic appearance. Originating from different regions and serving as dedicated livestock guardians, these dogs have captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Areas Covered
1. Great Pyrenees
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
2. Maremma
– Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
3. Similarities Between Great Pyrenees and Maremma
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Great Pyrenees and Maremma
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Great Pyrenees, Maremma
Great Pyrenees – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
The Great Pyrenees is a large and powerful working dog that was originally bred to protect livestock from wolves and other predators in snowy mountain areas. Today, they are known for being calm, loyal companions and vigilant guardians of homes and families. These dogs can reach heights of up to 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh over 100 pounds. Despite their size, they have a calm and peaceful demeanor but can quickly react and move gracefully when faced with a threat. Their coat is thick and weatherproof, usually white but can also have beautiful markings in shades of gray, tan, reddish-brown, or badger.
Great Pyrenees dogs typically live for 10 to 12 years. They shed consistently throughout the year and have one major shedding period annually. However, they only require about 30 minutes of brushing each week.
Training a Great Pyrenees can be challenging because they have an independent nature. They are not suitable for new or timid dog owners as they need consistent training and socialization with positive reinforcement. Although the Great Pyrenees dogs make excellent watchdogs for families, they require proper socialization to prevent shyness or aggression towards other dogs and people.
Maremma – Facts, Appearance, and Behavior
Maremma Sheepdogs are known for their white fur, which may have some shading variations. Their fur is long, thick, and coarse. These dogs do shed quite a bit, so they may not be the best choice for people with allergies. They typically stand between 23.5 to 28.5 inches, and their weight ranges from 65 to 100 pounds. Maremma Sheepdogs generally live for 11 to 13 years.
Maremma Sheepdogs are incredibly loyal and devoted to their job as well as their human and animal families. They thrive in environments with plenty of space where they can be active and independent. Early training and socialization are important to help them adjust to home and family. It’s worth noting that although they are not particularly destructive or mischievous, they are independent thinkers.
Similarities Between Great Pyrenees and Maremma
- The Great Pyrenees and Maremma were originally bred for livestock guardian duties, specifically to protect and guard sheep from predators.
- They are known for their loyal and protective nature, making them excellent watchdogs and guardians of their families and property.
- Both breeds have long, thick, and coarse fur that provides protection from various weather conditions.
- They are intelligent breeds that require proper training and socialization from an early age.
- Both breeds have an independent streak and can exhibit independent thinking when faced with challenges.
Difference Between Great Pyrenees and Maremma
Definition
The Great Pyrenees is a large and powerful working dog that was originally bred to protect livestock from wolves and other predators in snowy mountain areas while Maremma is a sturdy and loyal Italian breed of livestock guardian dog, recognized for its strong protective instincts and ability to thrive in rural settings.
Origins
Maremma Sheepdogs originate from Italy, specifically the Abruzzo area, while Great Pyrenees come from the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Height
Males of the Maremma Sheepdog breed can reach up to 28.75 inches, while Great Pyrenees males can grow taller, reaching heights of 32 inches.
Weight
Maremma Sheepdog males typically weigh between 77 to 100 pounds, whereas Great Pyrenees males tend to be larger and can weigh over 100 pounds.
Ears
Maremma Sheepdogs have ears set high and triangular in shape, while Great Pyrenees have ears carried low with a rounded tip.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of Maremma Sheepdogs is 11-12 years, while Great Pyrenees typically have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
Eyes
Maremma Sheepdogs have chestnut brown or ochre eyes, while Great Pyrenees dogs have rich dark brown eyes.
Head
While Maremma Sheepdogs have a conical-shaped head, Great Pyrenees have a wedge-shaped head.
Dewclaw
Maremma sheepdogs do not have a double dewclaw, whereas Great Pyrenees have a double dewclaw on their rear leg.
Coat
Maremma sheepdogs have a solid white coat, with some variations allowed in shades of ivory, orange, or lemon, although with limitations. On the other hand, Great Pyrenees have a white coat with markings of grey, badger, reddish brown, or tan on their ears, face, tail, and a few spots on their body.
Conclusion
The main difference between Great Pyrenees and Maremma is their size. Great Pyrenees are typically larger, reaching heights of up to 32 inches and weighing over 100 pounds, while Maremma Sheepdogs are slightly smaller, reaching heights of up to 28.75 inches and weighing 77 to 100 pounds.
Reference:
1. “Great Pyrenees.” Dog Time.
2. “Maremma Sheepdog.” Purina.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Great Pyrenees Mountain Dog 2” By HeartSpoon – Own work(CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Cane da pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese” By Karina Leo-Steffen, hier hochgeladen von –Caronna 08:14, 15 Apr 2005 (UTC) – (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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