Did you know the Pyrenean Shepherd, also known as the “Pyr Shep,” has a rich history as a working dog bred to herd livestock in the steep and harsh conditions of the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain? Known for their intelligence, agility and unwavering loyalty, they’re surprisingly light shedders for such fluffy dogs! Don’t worry though, we’ll peel back the layers of this furry wonder today, shedding some ‘light’ on their grooming needs. Whether you’re a potential Pyrenean Shepherd owner or just curious, we’re here to answer your burning question – does the Pyrenean Shepherd shed a lot?
Despite their thick and fluffy coat, Pyrenean Shepherds belong to the lighter side of the shedding spectrum. They typically shed moderately twice a year, primarily in spring and fall, a process commonly referred to as “blowing the coat.” This is when they lose their old fur to make way for a fresh new one.
However, Pyrenean Shepherds do not shed heavily throughout the year like some breeds. Their shedding is quite manageable, a blessing for those with an aversion to floating fluff! But remember, they are not hypoallergenic. Although their shedding level is relatively low, they may still cause reactions in people with severe allergies.
Their double coat varies between the “Rough-Faced” and the “Smooth-Faced” varieties. Rough-faced Pyr Sheps boast a thicker, longer, almost wavy coat, which sheds less than the short-coated variant. So, if you’re hoping for a lower shedder in the breed, the rough-faced might be the way to go! Just bear in mind, with plush fur comes extra grooming needs.
Grooming time can be an excellent opportunity for some bonding! Pyrenean Shepherds have a robust and tangle-resistant coat, but regular brushing is essential to keep their hair in check, avoid matting, and keep their skin healthy. A good rule of thumb is to groom them at least once a week using a pin brush or slicker brush for maximum effectiveness.
During their bi-annual shedding seasons, daily brushing might be necessary to deal with the loose fur and help accelerate the shedding process. Additionally, you can imbibe a monthly bath schedule with a dog-safe shampoo to ensure their coat remains clean, shiny, and pleasant!
With the Pyrenean Shepherd being an active and agile breed, they love to play outside! Their fun-filled outdoor games can result in picking up dirt, which can trigger more shedding and matting. Hence, a post-playtime quick brush can prove helpful in keeping the shedding under control.
Adding Omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality proteins to their diet will not only promote their overall health but also ensure a healthy coat, thus reducing shedding. Fresh salmon or a spoonful of flaxseeds are delicious sources of Omega-3 for dogs. Don’t forget to consult your vet before introducing any new elements into their diet!
Overall, although Pyrenean Shepherds are considered a lighter-shedding breed, they require regular grooming and a quality diet to maintain a healthy coat. Remember, all dogs, regardless of breed, will shed at some point. If you’re looking for a canine companion who’s relatively light on the dander but scores high on spirit, intelligence, and charisma, the Pyrenean Shepherd could be your perfect match.
So, next time when you look at a fluffy Pyr Shep and wonder about cleaning up a storm of dog hair, rest assured knowing that these agile and spirited dogs are relatively low shedders. It’s just another wonderful reason to welcome a Pyrenean Shepherd into your home!
