With its massive stature, fluffy coat, and signature puppy eyes, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix is one of those breeds you just quickly fall in love with.
Depending on which parent has more dominant genes, the Great Pyrenees Rottie mix may exhibit varying physical characteristics. However, they will almost always be really tall, athletic, and have dense fur.
Also known as the Great Weilernees, these dogs are incredibly loyal, intelligent, and protective. If you’re interested in learning more, keep reading. This article will dive deep into what exactly makes the Great Weilernees great.
What Is a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix?
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The Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix is the product of crossbreeding a Great Pyrenees and a Rottweiler. This large mixed-breed dog is known for being loyal, calm, and intelligent. They also make excellent guard dogs because of their Rottweiler gene.
Upon first glance, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix can be quite indiscernible from other mixed breeds. But a closer look will reveal a large wedge-shaped head, a stocky build, and dense fur.
Bred from two large working breeds, the Greatweiler mix is a beautiful blend of two unique breeds, highlighting the best traits of each lineage. This dog is loyal, protective, and great with children.
Due to its mixed ancestry, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This hybrid is also yet to be listed in the official roster of the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Origin and History
Since both parent breeds of the Greatweiler mix are known for being hardworking herding dogs, we can safely assume that the original breeders of this cross also wanted a large, protective guard dog.
However, much like other crosses in the market, the exact origin of this unique mixed breed is unknown. Just like the other Rottweiler mixes, we can assume that this breed started to appear around the turn of the century.
To have a better understanding of the background of the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix, let’s review the history of its parents, both of which are considered to be ancient breeds.
Rottweilers were originally and unintentionally bred by Roman soldiers in Germany.
They were bred to herd and guard for long periods. In the late 1920s, they were first exported to the United States, and they became AKC registered in 1931.
The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Pyrenean Mountain dog, has a history that’s just as extensive as the Rottweiler’s.
Originally bred as a livestock guardian dog in France, the breed was brought to the USA by Marquis de Lafayette in 1824. It wasn’t until over a hundred years later, in 1933, that it would be recognized by the AKC.
Taking from this, we know that the Great Pyrenees and Rottweiler have shared an extensive history of being loyal guards and herding dogs, protecting both their owners and livestock.
This great herding ability was then passed on to the Great Weilernees mix, which makes them perfect as service dogs, family dogs, and farm dogs.
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Appearance
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The appearance, size, and stature of a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix rely heavily on which parent breed is more dominant.
Most examples of this one-of-a-kind mix feature a dense light-colored coat from its Pyrenees parent or a smooth black and tan/fawn coat from the Rottweiler.
As both parent breeds are moderate to heavy shedders, you can expect a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix to shed just as much.
Aside from this, you can also expect a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix to have athletic, muscular bodies, as well as a wedge-shaped head and a broad chest. It is also common for these dogs to have droopy ears.
The common coat colors for this mixed breed are white, fawn, black and white, black with yellow/fawn, and white with yellow, tan, or fawn accents.
Watch this video to see a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix in action:
Rottweiler/Great Pyrenees mix - MOJO at Vanderwater Park<a href="https://youtu.be/EpUsnVaKCcE" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FEpUsnVaKCcE%2F0.jpg" alt="Rottweiler/Great Pyrenees mix - MOJO at Vanderwater Park" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Size and Weight
Since the Great Weilernees mix comes from two large parent breeds, they tend to measure at around 20 to 30 inches in height and weigh between 80 and 130 pounds.
Their size may vary depending on which type of Rottweiler is mated with the Great Pyrenees. An American Rottie parent will make the offspring leaner and taller, while a German Rottie will make it beefier and stockier.
A Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix would take around 18 to 24 months to fully develop and reach its peak height. Depending on their parents’ genetics, they may continue to fill out until they are two and a half to three years old.
These large dogs would thrive best in a house with wide spaces for running around. Sitting cooped up in an apartment could make these dogs passive and sluggish, which can cause health problems.
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Temperament and Personality
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Hailing from two working dog breeds, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix has a protective, loyal, and hardworking temperament, as well as a vigilant and playful personality.
Much like most working dogs, the Great Weilernees require lots and lots of exercise and enrichment, and they love having something to spend their energy on.
Simply letting them play independently or not interacting with them often will greatly frustrate these dogs.
The Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix isn’t known to be aggressive towards people and children, as long as they are socialized and trained correctly and given proper interaction and enrichment.
Their protective and playful nature makes them great around children as well as other pets.
However, due to their size, it might be best to keep them away from smaller pets and babies as they might accidentally squish them or play too roughly.
Nevertheless, since these dogs are highly trainable and eager to please, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix makes a great companion both outdoors and indoors.
READ NEXT: Male vs. Female Rottweiler: Which Is Better?
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
Thanks to hybrid vigor, mixed-breed dogs are generally thought to be healthier than purebred dogs.
With a properly balanced diet and plenty of exercise, a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix may live for up to 12 years or older.
However, this doesn’t mean that they are immune to diseases and health problems.
Here are some of the common health issues often associated with Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mixes:
Hip Dysplasia: Like most large breeds, Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix dogs are generally predisposed to hip dysplasia. This means that their pelvis and their femur grow at uneven rates, resulting in a hip joint that isn’t large enough to cover the head of the femur.
Cardiac Disease: Depending on genetics and lifestyle, dogs may develop some form of cardiac disease as they get older. Dogs showing signs of this disease typically have a history of poor eating habits, lack of exercise, weakness, coughing, increased breathing rate, and abdominal problems.
Diabetes: Most, if not all, dog breeds are susceptible to diabetes. Dogs with diabetes cannot regulate their body’s sugar metabolism and require daily insulin injections.
Epilepsy: According to the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKC CHF), epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder seen in dogs. Canine epilepsy is characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures resulting from a brain abnormality. Epilepsy can either be inherited, caused by a structural issue in the brain, or stem from an unknown cause.
Cataracts: Much like humans, a dog’s eyes may become cloudy as they age. Cataracts form when the proteins in the eyes start to clump together and form into a cloud-like substance. Diabetes can also cause cataracts in dogs.
It’s important to note that genetic conditions aren’t the only thing impacting a dog’s health. They can also acquire a number of health concerns due to neglect.
If you keep your dog on a balanced diet, give them plenty of exercise and enrichment, and visit the vet regularly, they are sure to live a long and healthy life.
How to Take Care of Your Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix
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Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mixes are not high-maintenance dogs. However, they require lots of enrichment, and they love having a job to do.
If you’re preparing to get your very own Greatweiler mix, here’s a little guide to help you get started.
Food and Diet
Large working dogs like Greatweilers require a protein-rich balanced diet. Hence, choosing protein-packed kibble is ideal for this dog.
If you’re unsure whether to feed your dog kibble, wet food, or raw food, be sure to check with your vet. Feeding them on lick mats or slow feeders will also lessen the risk of bloat and keep them entertained.
This breed tends to be quite energetic, so feeding them at least two to three meals per day will ensure they get proper nourishment throughout the day.
If you want to make sure that your dog gets all the essential vitamins and supplements they need, you can incorporate special treats or vitamins into their diet. Some common examples are pumpkin puree, raw eggs, and fish oil.
It’s also important to keep an eye on your dog’s eating habits and to make sure to stick to a regular feeding schedule. This way, you can easily plan walks and potty breaks before and after meals.
Cleaning and Grooming
Since both the Great Pyrenees and Rottweiler are shedders, it’s only safe to assume that their offspring will be too.
Allot at least 10 to 30 minutes of brushing every day to ensure your Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix won’t overheat or blow their coats all over the house.
This dog doesn’t need frequent baths, but its ears should be regularly cleaned to avoid infections. Getting them used to nail trimming will also ensure that their nails don’t grow too long and cause injuries or infections.
Dental care is also something that should be properly observed. Most dogs need their teeth brushed at least three to five times a week, according to VCA Animal Hospital. You can also give them dental chews or rawhide strips.
Training and Exercise
As energetic working dogs, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix needs a lot of exercise and socialization to keep them happy.
At least one to two hours of high-intensity exercise such as long-distance running, fetching, and tug of war is ideal for this mixed breed.
These pups also thrive best when they have a job to do. Tasking them to guard livestock or children will stimulate their brains and keep them from being lethargic.
Early neurological stimulation is recommended for most dogs, especially those from the working group, as it helps them get used to different stimuli.
This helps lower their anxiety and prey drive, and it also helps them bark less as they won’t see everything as a threat.
How Much Does a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
The price of a Great Pyrenees and Rottweiler hybrid can range between $800 and $3,000.
As a frame of reference, the purebred Rottweiler parent of this mix can cost anywhere between $800 and $3,500. On the other hand, a Great Pyrenees puppy is in the more affordable $500 to $2,500 range.
If you’re not prepared to fork over a couple of thousand dollars for a pup, you can always check your local rescue center if they have a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix in their care.
Most rescue centers only ask for $200 to $600 for the adoption fee.
In any case, listed below are the initial expenses you need to consider upon owning a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix:
The table above lists the initial expenses necessary for a large breed like the Rottweiler Pyrenees mix. However, your expenses may still vary depending on the amount and the brand you’ll buy.
Places to Find Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
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Unlike popular mixes like the doodles, a Rottie Pyrenees mix can be quite difficult to come across. It is often thought that this mix only comes from unintentional mating.
This means that it will be pretty challenging to find a breeder specializing in creating this particular mix.
That being said, if you’re adamant about taking this unique mix home, you can check out some of the breeders listed below:
Next-Day-Pets – Founded in 2003, this Maryland-based pet marketplace has a breed match feature that ensures you get the perfect dog suited for your lifestyle. They offer everything from purebred pups to mixed-breed dogs, and you can get your very own Great Weilernees mix with just a few clicks.
Greenfield Puppies – A family-run organization founded in 2000, this Better Business Bureau (BBB)-accredited website lists only the most reputable breeders. Greenfield puppies also offer a wide variety of Rottweiler mixes, such as Pitweilers and Great Weilernees mixes, all backed up with user reviews and comments.
Infinity Pups – This organization mostly works as a broker and connects dogs to their perfect homes. Infinity Pups has a wide selection of puppies and dogs alike, ranging from purebreds to more obscure mixes such as the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix.
If you want more options, we also have a comprehensive list of Great Pyrenees and Rottweiler breeders you can check out.
If buying from a breeder isn’t your thing, there are also several rescue shelters you can look into.
Not only will this cost significantly less than buying, but you’re also giving a dog a new chance at a good and fulfilling life.
Here are some of the rescues you can check if you’re looking for a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix available for adoption:
R. E. A. L. Rottweiler Rescue – Based in Ohio, R.E.A.L. Rottweiler Rescue has rescued dogs from different backgrounds. Some are saved from high-kill and rural shelters, while others are surrendered by their owners. This organization is dedicated not only to Rottweilers; they are also open to receiving “not-weilers” such as other breeds and mixes.
Rottweiler Rescue of Los Angeles, Inc. – RRLA is a rescue organization that helps rehome Rottweilers in Southern California. Rotties who lost their homes or cannot be cared for anymore find shelter in RRLA regardless of their age and condition. Aside from young ones and adults, RRLA has senior dogs, mixes, and dogs with special needs.
Other than the rescues mentioned above, you can also check out our top picks for Rottweiler rescues. Meanwhile, if you’re unsure about adopting, or it’s your first time adopting a dog, check out our ultimate dog adoption guide.
This contains the common guidelines and requirements set by rescue shelters, as well as a few tips that you can follow to make sure your application gets accepted.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Rottweiler Great Pyrenees Mix
Even if it’s not your first dog, taking home a Great Weilernees mix, or any dog in general, is a big decision that should be given a lot of thought and ample preparation.
If you’re still unsure, or you feel as though you’re unable to commit to the idea of owning one, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of owning a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix below.
Here are the pros of owning a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix:
Great guard dogs: Coming from two working breeds, this particular mix loves to guard and protect its family. They are vigilant and watchful, and they won’t hesitate to alert you of incoming danger. Thanks to their herding lineage, they can also help round up smaller pets.
Long lifespan and good health: If you want a dog that can last generations, a hybrid like the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix is one of the best picks to consider. They have long life expectancies and are generally healthier than purebreds, thanks to their hybrid vigor.
Highly intelligent: This working dog is highly intelligent and is always eager to please. This makes them easily trainable, and they won’t get bored during training.
Here are the cons of owning a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix:
Barking and other destructive behaviors: If not trained or socialized properly, this breed tends to bark, get aggressive, or even chew and bite things. If you’re unable to meet the proper stimulation this mix needs, it may not be the perfect dog for you.
Heavy shedding: Coming from two heavy shedders, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix will shed regardless if they inherit a dense double coat or a smooth coat. They will shed periodically throughout the year, so if you’re prone to dog allergies, this may not be the dog for you.
Unpredictability: Due to its unpopularity as a crossbreed, there is still much we don’t know about the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix. We can’t be sure if they’re genetically predisposed to some health issues or if they’ll grow up to be exactly like their parent breeds.
Using this list, you can now weigh the pros and cons of owning a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix and analyze if it’s the right dog for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mixes Aggressive?
As long as they are properly socialized and trained, Great Pyrenees Rottie mixes are not aggressive. They may tend to be quite vocal, but they will often be patient and calm.
However, like most dogs, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix may show signs of aggression when it feels threatened or it feels like danger is nearby.
Do Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mixes Shed a Lot?
Since both the Great Pyrenees and Rottweilers are moderate to high shedders, an offspring of these two breeds will inherit the same coat.
Like most thick-coated dogs, the Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix will shed all year and will blow their coats multiple times throughout the year.
Are Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mixes are not hypoallergenic. They are prone to shedding fur and dog dander throughout the year, much like their parents, who are both moderate to heavy shedders.
Pet dander contains tiny little flecks of skin, so it’s really notorious for causing allergies.
Final Thoughts: Is a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix the Right Dog for You?
If you’re looking for a big, lovable dog that can watch over and protect your family, a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler may just be the dog for you.
Not only are these dogs highly intelligent and obedient, but they are also fiercely protective and loyal.
However, a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix can be quite challenging to come across due to the unpopularity of the breed.
Have you seen a Great Pyrenees Rottweiler mix before? Are you interested in having one? Let us know in the comments below!
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