There are lots of dog hybrids where breeders have taken a popular, adorable breed and crossed it with a poodle.

These poodle genes help to add a little more intelligence to the offspring, as well as the likelihood of a hypoallergenic coat.

This is precisely what happened with the Pyredoodle – a Standard Poodle and Pyrenees Mountain Dog cross.

In this guide to this interesting Poodle and Great Pyrenees mix we aim to provide the best information on different factors about this dog.

There are the physical and behavioral traits, the breeding issues and different care needs.

We will end with information on where to get one.

What should we call this dog?

It is important to find the right name for this sort of hybrid dog.

The problem here is that there are actually quite a few different names that are used by different owners and breeders. This can get a little confusing when dealing with breeders, shelters and other owners.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]Some use the term Pyrepoo, others lengthen that to Pyreneespoo to better highlight the Mountain Dog parentage. [/thrive_text_block]

Others go for Pyreneesdoodle. This makes a little more sense as it follows the tradition of modern “doodle” hybrids and clearly shows that this is a Poodle crossed with the Pyrenees Mountain Dog. Pyredoodle shortens this to make it a little easier to say.

Further Reading: A Guide To Choosing The Best Multivitamin For Dogs

What do we need to know about the size of this dog?

This is going to be a fairly big dog compared to some of the other doodles because of the size of the mountain dog.

It is smaller than a mountain dog, but bigger than a standard poodle. It doesn’t have the large build of the mountain dog, but is still an imposing figure.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]A full grown Pyredoodle could have a weight of up to 120 pounds, tho is unlikely to be that heavy, and a height of between 20 and 32 inches. [/thrive_text_block]

Another trademark physical feature to look out for is those large floppy ears.

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Watch out for anybody that claims to have miniature Great Pyrenees Poodle mix dogs for sale, as there are potential issues here

[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]The main problem is that you cannot know precisely why it is a smaller version of the Pyredoodle. [/thrive_text_block]

Is it a runt that is smaller than its siblings? Is it a Pyrenees mixed with a Miniature Poodle instead of a Standard Poodle? Is it a Pyredoodle crossed with a different type doodle. There is the potential for either, and all three have their issues.

The problem with the runt of the litter is that they often have health problems, and a shorter lifespan.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]On that note, the lifespan of this Pyredoodle should be around 11 to 12 years. Not that long, but longer than some larger breeds.  [/thrive_text_block]

The problem with a Miniature Poodle cross is that this is a bad idea for the mix.

There are also some inexperienced breeders that may not know that a female mini poodle shouldn’t carry the offspring of a larger dog like a mountain dog.

Finally there is the issue of third generation doodle mixes. This situation means you don’t really know what you are getting, and what to expect from the dog’s traits.

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This is where a DNA test like Embark Breed Identification Dog DNA Test can help.

The first benefit here with this at-home DNA testing kit is breed heritage. This means finding out precisely which breeds are in the genetic make up of the dog. The result can determine a true poodle and mountain dog cross versus one that has a few other breeds in the mix.

This outcome could help owners predict the temperament and behavioral issues with these dogs.

The other benefit is the chance to learn more about any genetic health risks. These potential Great Pyrenees doodles health risks include some joint problems in later life. There are also some dogs that develop bloat and digestive issues.

Finally, regular checks in the ears are essential because of their shape.

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On the subject of temperament, what personality and behavioral issues can new owners expect here?

There are lots of positive traits to the personality of these dogs that makes them appealing as both working and family dogs.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]This is an affectionate dog that is keen to please its owner, with a protective streak. [/thrive_text_block]

This protective streak means that some are keen to use this as a watchdog. This can work pretty well with the right training.

[thrive_text_block color=”red” headline=””]However, some of these dogs are a bit timid, and don’t always grow out of that wariness. This means that they may not want to confront strangers. [/thrive_text_block]

This is a good family dog as long as owners bring in strong socialization training from an early age. There is also the potential problem with them wondering off and testing boundaries. Leash training is therefore essential to get them to stay put.

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Training the Pyredoodle

As you can see, there is a strong need for training in lots of areas as soon as you get your Pyredoodle puppy.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]The good news here is that this should be a pretty intelligent dog with that intellect from the poodle father. They can pick up commands with ease and they want to please their master, so will behave. [/thrive_text_block]

This intellect means that they will also benefit from some interactive dog toys and brain training for dogs during training and play time.

This all means that it shouldn’t be too hard to succeed with training for barking, obedience, house training, leash training and other issues. This is especially true with plenty of positive reinforcement and treats.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]Those that struggle can turn to the accessible step-by-step guidance from Doggy Dan the Online Dog Trainer. [/thrive_text_block]

Further Reading: A Guide To Some Of Best Dog Training Books Available Today (Top 24)

Other considerations when taking care of these animals

Those that are used to mountain dogs will know about the big, thick coat on the Pyrenees dog. It usually calls for a furminator to handle big shedding seasons and can be a pain for those with allergies.

[thrive_text_block color=”note” headline=””]Here there is a slightly different look and the potential for hypoallergenic hair as a bonus. There is a longer, wavier coat that is in between the fur of the two dog breeds in question. [/thrive_text_block]

Owners still may end up vacuuming a bit, but there will be less dander and allergens to deal with. Grooming can be a fun task with the right mindset.

You will also see from images of Pyredoodle puppies that there are different coat colors.

There are many pale dogs, especially with a white poodle and white/paler mountain dog.

There is also the chance of other browns, apricots and creams, especially around the ears. Then there are the rarer blacks and greys with cross breeding with darker poodles.

Further Reading: What Is The Best Brush For Shedding Dogs? (Top 15)

Then there is the diet and exercise regimen of this larger dog.

Owners need to learn about feeding them the best dry dog food for their weight, activity levels and health concerns.

[thrive_text_block color=”blue” headline=””]This can be a fairly active dog that will need plenty of walks and exercise. [/thrive_text_block]

This means time away in the dog park, also time playing in the yard. This is a great place to test out those interactive toys and other treats to keep their minds active.

Those that struggle with care and health ideas can turn to The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health from Kingdom of Pets.

Further Reading: How To Choose The Best Automatic Dog Feeder

Where to get a pyrenees poodle mix

One option for getting one of these dogs is to find breeders with Pyrenees Poodle puppies for sale.

There will be breeders that understand the best way to breed these dogs to create a healthy litter. They will take the best coats, healthiest animals and most intelligent dogs and work on a strong line. They will also do so in a responsible manner.

However, there are also those that aren’t so responsible, and will put dogs at risk with little idea of good breeding practice.

Research carefully and walk away if you aren’t sure.

The other option is to turn to adoption shelters for a Pyredoodle rescue dog.

Rescue dogs are a great way to save the life of an animal in need of a second chance.

These dogs may need extra care and training, especially if they are timid due to mistreatment. But, the results are highly rewarding.

From there you need to consider the pyredoodle price

These dogs aren’t going to be cheap, as they aren’t the most common of hybrid dogs, and breeders put a lot of effort into the practice.

Still, you don’t have to pay a fortune if you research breeders carefully.

Avoid higher prices for rare colors or miniature dogs. Also avoid anything too cheap as this is a sign of an irresponsible breeder.

Also remember that the fees in shelters are more affordable – another reason to adopt not buy.

Is it really a good idea to look for a Pyredoodle for sale?

There are lots of cute pyredoodle pictures that suggest that this is an adorable little cross. The problem is that pictures are sometimes misleading.

Be careful when dealing with anyone selling a pyredoodle – whether standard, miniature or teacup – as not all of them are as advertised.

If you are sure it is a true Pyredoodle pup then you can look forward to some great traits. They are loving, protective, active, hypoallergenic dogs that are a joy to own and work with. Just make sure to give them all the care and training they need.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram/deweythedood