For lovers of gentle giants out there, the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix should be your next best friend. This mixed dog breed maintains all the notable qualities to make it a great family pet.
Generally, Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd mixes are known to be friendly and protective pooches. The combination of their sweet and calm personalities, along with their adorable looks, makes them irresistible.
In this guide, you will be able to know more than just the basics about the Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix. You will learn about its personality traits, appearance, health concerns, care needs, and more. Let’s get started!
Breed Overview
| Height: | 18 – 32 inches |
| Weight: | 40 – 110 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | White, black, red, tan, cream, red merle, blue merle, bi-color, tri-color |
| Temperament: | Patient, hardworking, high-spirited, affectionate, vigilant, devoted |
| Suitable for: | Active families and individuals; households with older kids; those who live in spacious homes |
What Is a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix?
The Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix, also known as the Great Pyrenees Aussie mix, is a cross between two breeds widely regarded for their intelligence, vigilance, and faithfulness: the Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd. It is one of the most popular designer canines in the United States.
Descended from a long line of herders and guard dogs, the Great Pyrenees Aussie mix is a pup that can handle any task you throw at it. It’s even been dubbed “the all-arounder” due to its ability to excel in almost any activity.
With this, it has become an increasingly prevalent choice among pet owners looking for an active buddy. It typically won’t be found sitting around idly; rather, it will likely be off exploring new terrain with you by its side.
Still, note that as amazing as this hybrid dog can be, the American Kennel Club (AKC), Great Pyrenees Club of America (GPCA), and the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) don’t recognize it as an official breed.
In other words, the Australian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees mix doesn’t have a pedigree or registration papers. It can’t be entered into shows or competitions sanctioned by major kennel clubs in the country.
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Origin and History
The origin and history of the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix aren’t well-recorded. So while it’s clear that this dog is a mix of two unlike breeds, no one can say for sure where they originated or how they came to be.
Nevertheless, you should note that looking into the Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd’s records makes sense as a starting point.
Beginning with the Australian Shepherd, one might assume that this breed originated in Australia. However, this isn’t true; it actually came from California and northwest regions of Spain.
What’s more, Aussies were originally developed for herding and guarding. Their intelligence and trainability, as well as their loyalty and willingness to protect their flock, are what make them so effective at these tasks.
Meanwhile, the Great Pyrenees is one of the oldest dog breeds on earth. In fact, there are references to it dating back as far as 1800 B.C., when it was used as a guard dog in the mountains near France’s border with Spain.
In the past, you wouldn’t find Great Pyrenees in many households; farmers and shepherds typically owned these dogs. They generally boast exceptional strength and endurance, making them ideal working canines.
Overall, you can safely conclude that crossing these two breeds was done with good intentions. The Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix was bred to bring out their best qualities and combine them into one great pup.
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Appearance
As with other mixed breeds, the exact appearance of the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix will differ from dog to dog. In truth, even in the same litter, you can expect some variations between each puppy’s looks.
Having said that, keep in mind that examining the parents will give you a good idea of what to expect from this cross.
First of all, the Great Pyrenees is a big, heavily-muscled dog with a fluffy coat. It exhibits long legs, and its ears are usually floppy and hang down its cheek. Further, its color only comes in white alongside tan markings.
On the flip side, Australian Shepherds come in a variety of shades, including black, red, and white, as well as red merle or blue merle. They also have piercing eyes and are of medium height for their size.
When you mix these two purebreds, you’re bound to get some interesting results. For example, a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy has the potential to inherit its coat color from either parent — or both.
This pup will likely grow up to be somewhat muscular as well. It will also have fur that’s thick enough to keep it warm in the winter, making it an excellent choice for people who live in places with colder climates.
However, remember that this is only one of the many possible outcomes. When it comes to genetics, there are no guarantees — your pup could inherit any number of traits from each parent breed.
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Size and Weight
In most instances, you can expect a fully grown Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix to reach a height between 18 and 32 inches tall at the shoulder, along with a weight range of between 40 and 110 pounds.
Such averages can be reached by a certain pup at anywhere from 15 to 24 months old. Note, however, that these ranges are estimates only, as each Great Pyrenees Aussie mix is unique in its growth patterns and size.
Moreover, Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd mix sizes don’t solely rely on genetic factors. They can also be influenced by the environment in which your puppy was raised, including its diet and daily activities.
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Temperament and Personality
Since temperament and personality aren’t controlled by the gene pool, the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix is going to exhibit a wide range of behaviors and is quite unpredictable.
Always remember that a particular pup can be extremely calm and friendly or aggressive and territorial, depending on its upbringing.
Hence, to guarantee that your new family member will behave well with other animals and humans, you should raise it from puppyhood with all proper socialization skills.
In addition, given that both the Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd are known for their vigilant natures, basic obedience training needs to be done consistently.
Nonetheless, three things are certain about Great Pyrenees Aussie mixes: they are one of the most affectionate, loyal, and playful canines on the planet.
So if you are active as much as you are patient, you will have no trouble making this designer dog an inseparable part of your life.
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix is a healthy dog breed that can live anywhere from 10 to 15 years. This means they will be around for a while, and this is why it’s vital to know what health issues they are prone to.
In this way, you can watch out for the warning signs and take action immediately.
Below are some of the most common health problems an Aussie Pyrenees may encounter:
- Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV): GDV occurs when the stomach of a Great Pyrenees Aussie mix swells because of gas or fluid, causing it to twist. Symptoms of this condition include vomiting, lethargy, restlessness, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Canine Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: If your Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix is born from parents with hip and elbow dysplasia, there’s a strong chance they’ll develop it as well. These conditions can cause pain and lameness in your dog’s joints as they age, which can become debilitating if not treated.
- Hereditary Cataracts: Great Pyrenees Aussie mixes can experience cataracts, which occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. This condition can be inherited, leading to partial or total blindness if left unchecked.
While it’s evident that many health issues are inherited, preventable ones can be averted by ensuring your Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix gets the proper nutrition and exercise.
Overall, always make sure to monitor your pup closely for any signs of illness or discomfort. Once you notice something abnormal, bring it to the vet right away.
How to Take Care of Your Great Pyrenees Aussie Mix
In general, the Great Pyrenees Aussie mix will be similar to many other pups when it comes to care requirements. Still, there are some things you should bear in mind that are specific to this particular breed.
Below, you will find more information about the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix’s feeding, grooming, and training needs.
Food and Diet
Many factors affect the diet and feeding requirements of Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes. These include age, size, activity level, metabolism, health status, and pedigree.
Having said that, a good rule of thumb is to feed your Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix dog food high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates.
Meanwhile, the recommended adult daily feeding amount for this mix is 4 to 7 cups per day. This is still a fairly broad range — so you will want to keep an eye out for any signs that your dog may be under or overweight.
Cleaning and Grooming
Regarding grooming, regular brushing is the topmost priority for your Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix. This will help to keep its coat clean and free of matting, which could potentially cause skin irritation or infection.
In addition, it’s necessary to give your dog proper baths in order to remove all dirt or debris from their coat and skin. Bathing can be done once every three weeks or so if needed.
Furthermore, if you want to save money on grooming expenses, investing in high-quality tools, such as nail clippers, de-shedders, shears, and a dog-friendly toothbrush, is highly suggested.
Luckily, many Youtube videos are available online that can teach you how to use all these tools correctly.
Training and Exercise
In terms of training, Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes are generally clever and eager to please. With this, expect them to respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and praise.
However, remember that using these methods alone is insufficient to train an Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix. Consistency and patience are also keys when training this designer breed.
Watch this video of a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix undergoing off-leash training:
Another thing to note is that this mix exhibits high energy levels and is prone to separation anxiety. Therefore, it needs regular exercise — a minimum of two hours daily — to keep it happy and well-conditioned.
The best types of exercise for Great Pyrenees Aussies include running, hiking, jogging, and swimming. Playing fetch is also an excellent way for your dog to burn off some steam.
How Much Does a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
A Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy should cost about $800 to $4,000. The exact price will depend on the breeder you choose, your location, and the specific characteristics of your potential puppy.
For anyone interested in adopting this cross instead, prepare to spend anywhere between $100 and $700. Many shelters and rescue organizations offer these dogs at low adoption fees or even free of charge.
However, note that the expenses associated with Great Pyrenees Aussie mixes aren’t just limited to their initial purchase price; there are other costs entailed with owning one too.
The table below presents the initial expenses for a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $70 – $150 |
| Bowls | $10 – $40 |
| Toys | $30 – $100 |
| Beds | $40 – $300 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $50 – $500 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $250 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $80 |
| Total Initial Cost | $505 – $3,150 |
In the end, it’s important to remember that no matter how much it costs to get a dog like this, they’re worth every penny. The Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd mix will absolutely offer so much joy and love in return.
Places to Find Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
For those who are genuinely interested in finding a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy, there are several places where you can look. That said, one should note that not all of them are reliable sources.
Unfortunately, many puppy mills and backyard breeders are operating illegally. These people may have no interest in their puppies’ well-being, which can lead to health problems down the road.
However, to give you a head start on your search, here are a few of the best sites to look for Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppies for sale:
- AKC Marketplace – Although the AKC Marketplace is dedicated to purebred puppies, their list of reputable Pyr and Aussie breeders may be able to help you find a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy.
- Lancaster Puppies – Lancaster Puppies is one of the few trustworthy websites that offer Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppies for sale. Their search function is straightforward and simple to use, making it easy to find any dog you’re looking for.
- Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is another puppy-selling site with a long history and an excellent reputation. They carefully screen their Great Pyrenees Aussie puppies to ensure they have the best possible quality available.
Aside from buying, you may also want to consider adopting one of these wonderful dogs. Many organizations across the country house Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes that are in need of loving homes.
Below are dependable places that may have Great Pyrenees Aussies available for adoption:
- National Pyr Rescue – Since its inception in 2006, National Pyr Rescue has been offering a safe harbor for purebred and mixed Pyrs waiting for forever families. Their Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherds’ adoption fee costs about $400 to $700.
- New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue – New Spirit 4 Aussie Rescue, also known as NS4AR, is a nonprofit organization with Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes up for adoption. Their fee starts at $200 and may vary depending on the age, sex, and health of a particular canine.
- Petfinder – With the Petfinder site being connected with over 11,000 shelters and rescues, it’s likely that you will find a Great Pyrenees Aussie mix here. They also offer a search feature to help narrow down your choices by location, gender, age, and more.
Joining Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix-related online groups and forums should be worthwhile as well. This will allow you to get acquainted with other owners who can help answer any questions you may have.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Great Pyrenees Aussie Mix
Like other dogs, whether purebred or mixed-breed, the Great Pyrenees Aussie mix has its benefits and drawbacks. Keep in mind that no canine is perfect, and this designer pooch is no exception.
So if you are considering adopting or buying a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix, consider the following pros:
- Possesses a strong work ethic: The Great Pyrenees and Australian Shepherd share similar levels of hard work and determination, which leads one to believe that the Aussie Pyrenees mix will be an extremely motivated companion.
- A bundle of energy: Both parent breeds of the Australian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees mix have high energy levels and need plenty of physical activities. So if you are looking for a dog that will keep up with you as you run, hike, or bike, this may be the right match for you.
- Is a kid magnet: While the size of a Great Pyrenees Aussie mix may be intimidating, it’s worth mentioning that they are extremely friendly and playful around children. Just make sure to keep an eye on your little ones around the dog so they don’t get hurt accidentally.
On the other hand, below are the cons of owning an Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix:
- Requires a large space: If you live in a small apartment or have limited outdoor space, the Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees mix may not be ideal for you. This hybrid breed can grow up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder, so it needs ample room to move around.
- Highly vigilant: Even though no one can predict what a certain Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy will grow up to be like, it may possibly retain its parents’ highly watchful nature. Thus, training, socialization, and supervision should begin early in this crossbreed’s life.
- Sheds quite heavily: As fluffy as they look, Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherds shed hair all year round. Though daily brushing will help keep the amount of fur down, it’s still not a perfect solution for those with allergies or asthma.
All in all, before you get too excited about owning an Australian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees mix, it’s critical to know what you are getting into. No one wants to end up with a furry companion that isn’t right for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mixes Good Family Dogs?
Yes, when trained and socialized early on in life, Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes can make good family dogs. They are known for their gentle nature and love of people.
Hence, even though their size might be intimidating at first glance, you can anticipate them to be generally excellent with children and other pets. They also tend to be protective of their family members.
Do Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mixes Shed?
Unfortunately, Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes are regarded as high-shedding pooches. They shed fur throughout the year, not just during seasonal changes like most dogs do.
As such, regular brushing and grooming are a necessity for these incredibly fluffy dogs.
Are Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mixes aren’t hypoallergenic. The problem with these dogs is that they have high amounts of dander, which can trigger allergies in some individuals.
To add to that, bear in mind that dog hair is not the only source of allergens; saliva and dead skins are also potential triggers. So if you are allergic to canines, you might have to be careful when choosing your pet.
Final Thoughts
The Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix definitely will not let you down. Its charming, loving nature makes it a good companion for both kids and adults alike, and its large size makes it a formidable guard dog.
Furthermore, you can anticipate that Aussie Pyrenees are as intelligent and hardworking as their parent breeds. So with the right training and upbringing, this crossbreed will surely be an asset to your family.
Yet, note that teaching a Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix puppy tricks and commands isn’t easy, especially if you’re a newbie. You’ll need lots of patience and guidance from your vet or trainer during this process.
Finally, it’s crucial not to forget about shedding. This cross sheds quite heavily, so be prepared with heavy-duty vacuums and lint brushes before bringing one home.
If you have any thoughts about the Great Pyrenees Australian Shepherd mix, let us know in the comments!
