15 Guardian Dog Breeds That Could Be The Great Pyrenees’ Long-Lost Cousins
The Great Pyrenees is basically a cloud with legs, but guess what? It has a whole bunch of look-alike cousins spread across the world. Some are bigger, and some are so rare that they sound like something out of a fantasy novel. Love big dogs? Keep reading; you’re about to meet the Pyrenees’ long-lost relatives.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
If the Great Pyrenees is the cuddly family member, the Anatolian Shepherd is the get-off-my-lawn uncle. Hailing from Turkey, this breed has been guarding livestock for over 6,000 years. They don’t have time for fetch or belly rubs when wolves are lurking. Think of them as the workaholics of the dog world: fiercely loyal but not big on small talk.
Kangal
The Kangal may not have the fluffy coat of the Great Pyrenees, but it shares the same fearless guardian instincts. This Turkish breed is one of the best livestock protectors in the world, known for its speed and powerful bite. Kangals are gentle with their families and form strong bonds with their humans.
Kuvasz
Back then, Hungarian kings didn’t trust anyone to guard their palaces. They picked the Kuvasz, a breed that looks like a regal white lion and has the heart of a warrior. Not only do they look like elegant white lions, but they also have a fearless nature that makes them excellent protectors.
Tatra Shepherd Dog
Poland took one look at the Great Pyrenees and said, “We can do that too.” The result? The Tatra Shepherd Dog. These majestic white guardians have been keeping flocks safe in the Tatra Mountains for centuries. Unlike some other livestock breeds, Tatras tend to be more trainable and eager to please.
Slovak Cuvac
A dog that looks like a Great Pyrenees but comes with a Slovakian twist? That’s the Slovak Cuvac. This breed is a little less well-known, but they bring the same fluffy white coat and guardian instincts. Historically, the Slovak Cuvac has been protecting livestock from bears and wolves in the mountains for generations.
Tornjak
The Tornjak might not be as famous as the Great Pyrenees, but it deserves a spot on this list. Originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina, this breed has been around for centuries. With a weather-resistant coat and a strong protective instinct, the Tornjak is a fearless worker. They’re also surprisingly affectionate and lovable.
Pyrenean Mastiff
The Great Pyrenees is significant, but the Pyrenean Mastiff is bigger. This Spanish breed can weigh over 200 pounds and be bred to guard livestock against massive predators. But don’t let their size fool you; they’re known for their gentle nature with their families.
Spanish Mastiff
Speaking of massive pups, the Spanish Mastiff is another heavyweight contender. Unlike the fluffy Great Pyrenees, these dogs have shorter coats. They’ve been guarding flocks in Spain for centuries and are known for their loyalty and independence. They’re loyal but not the most eager-to-please breed.
Akbash Dog
The Akbash Dog is like the Anatolian Shepherd’s more athletic cousin. Both breeds come from Turkey and share a strong guardian instinct. The Akbash is leaner and more agile, built for speed and endurance. While Anatolian Shepherds have a stockier build, Akbash dogs have a sleeker frame and a pure white coat, which makes them stand out.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog makes the Great Pyrenees look small, and that’s saying something. This massive breed can weigh over 170 pounds and be bred to protect livestock in the rugged mountains of the Caucasus region. Along with their thick coat and strong-willed nature, they’re incredibly loyal to their families.
Estrela Mountain Dog
If Portugal had its own version of the Great Pyrenees, it would be the Estrela Mountain Dog. Both breeds were bred to guard livestock, but the Estrela has a more muscular build and a wavier coat. Their protective instincts are just as strong, but they tend to be a bit more independent.
Karst Shepherd
The Karst Shepherd may not be as well-known as the Great Pyrenees, but it deserves more attention. This Slovenian breed is a hardworking guardian with a thick coat and a protective nature. Unlike some livestock guardians, they’re a bit more social and trainable.
South Russian Ovcharka
The South Russian Ovcharka might look like an extra-fluffy version of the Caucasian Shepherd, and that’s not far off. Both breeds were developed to guard livestock in tough environments, making them strong-willed and fearless. The Ovcharka, however, has a shaggier coat that makes it look like a walking snowdrift.
Sarplaninac
The Sarplaninac is just as impressive as the Great Pyrenees. Originating from the Balkans, these dogs have been guarding flocks since our ancestors walked on earth. They’re strong and incredibly loyal. Compared to some fluffier breeds, the Sarplaninac has a shorter coat, but they’re better built for mountain life and harsh conditions.
Great Maremmano
The Great Maremmano isn’t some fusion of the Great Pyrenees and Maremma Sheepdog—it’s more like the Maremma’s supersized cousin. Bred in Italy, this powerful livestock guardian is larger and more sturdy, with some influence from other breeds. While their job is serious, they’re known for their loyalty and affectionate nature with their families.
