Pomeranian vs Great Pyrenees
Size Category
Small
Ideal For
Various Households
Maintenance Level
Moderate
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
Various Households
Maintenance Level
Low
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Pomeranian might be better if you:
- Want a smaller dog that's easy to carry
- Want a breed known for longevity
Great Pyrenees might be better if you:
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a small dog breed characterized by its fluffy double coat, fox-like face, and lively personality. They are known for their compact size, typically weighing between 3 to 7 pounds, and standing about 8 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. Pomeranians are highly intelligent, alert, and curious, making them excellent companions. Their playful nature and affectionate demeanor often endear them to families and individuals alike. Despite their small stature, they possess a bold and confident temperament, often exhibiting a larger-than-life personality. Pomeranians are also known for their vocal tendencies, often barking to alert their owners of any perceived threats or changes in their environment.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is a large, majestic breed recognized for its striking white coat and gentle demeanor. They are characterized by their impressive size, typically weighing between 85 to 115 pounds, and standing 25 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Their dense, double coat is weather-resistant, making them well-suited for colder climates. The breed is known for its calm and patient temperament, often displaying a sense of independence and a protective nature. Great Pyrenees are devoted to their families and are particularly good with children. They can be aloof with strangers but are generally gentle and affectionate towards those they know. This breed requires regular grooming due to its thick fur, and they thrive in environments where they can have ample space to roam and explore. Their intelligence and strong instinct to protect make them excellent guard dogs, especially for livestock.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Good with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Light shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Moderate grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Moderately trainable
Energy Level
Moderately energetic breed
Moderately energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Frequent barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Pomeranian
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Feeding
Provide high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and age.
Health Care
Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections.
Great Pyrenees
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Feeding
Provide fresh water daily and monitor food intake.
Health Care
Check ears regularly for dirt and debris.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Feeding
Provide high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and age.
Feeding
Provide fresh water daily and monitor food intake.
Health Care
Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections.
Health Care
Check ears regularly for dirt and debris.
Additional Care Notes
Pomeranian
- •Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
Great Pyrenees
- •Regularly clean teeth to prevent dental issues.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key, as Pomeranians can be stubborn at times. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to different environments, people, and other animals from a young age to develop a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness or selective listening during training sessions
- •Barking excessively, which may require focused desensitization techniques
- •Potty training issues, as they may prefer to go indoors if not properly trained
- •Separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior if not addressed
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Focus on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior, and be patient as they can be independent thinkers.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent nature
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Difficulty in recall due to their guarding instincts
- •Socialization issues with other pets or unfamiliar people
- •Resistance to leash training, preferring to roam
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Start with basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to encourage good behavior. Consistency and patience are key, as Pomeranians can be stubborn at times. Socialization is also crucial; expose them to different environments, people, and other animals from a young age to develop a well-rounded temperament.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness or selective listening during training sessions
- •Barking excessively, which may require focused desensitization techniques
- •Potty training issues, as they may prefer to go indoors if not properly trained
- •Separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behavior if not addressed
Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees require consistent, positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Focus on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash walking. Socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Use treats and praise to encourage good behavior, and be patient as they can be independent thinkers.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness and a strong independent nature
- •Tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained
- •Difficulty in recall due to their guarding instincts
- •Socialization issues with other pets or unfamiliar people
- •Resistance to leash training, preferring to roam
Training Resources
Pomeranian Training Guide
Great Pyrenees Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Pomeranian Breeders
Find Great Pyrenees Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.