These Great Pyrenees Mixes Are Huge, Hilarious & Surprisingly Sweet

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Ever wonder what happens when you cross a 100-pound canine cloud with a Husky? A Rottweiler? A Golden Retriever? These Great Pyrenees mixes aren’t just big – they’re personality-packed, sofa-dominating, sometimes goofy, and often way sweeter than they look.

From breeds that double down on fluff to unexpected combos that somehow work, this list will have you asking: “Is that still a dog… or a polar bear with opinions?”

Ready to meet the gentle giants you never knew you needed? But be warned, these units may cause sudden adoption urges.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a massive, fluffy guardian breed bred to protect livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain.

Built for independence and cold climates, these dogs are known for their calm confidence, thick white coats, and bark that could wake neighbors from miles away.

Despite their size and serious stare, Pyrenees are surprisingly affectionate. They bond deeply with their families and are famously gentle with children.

But don’t expect them to fetch or play the obedience game. They’re wired to think for themselves and make their own decisions (often involving ignoring you). Feeding them a high-quality diet is needed to ensure they maintain their health.

What To Expect From A Great Pyrenees Mix

Great Pyrenees are known for being calm, protective, and, as many owners lovingly put it, stubborn as a snow-covered mule. When mixed with other breeds, that classic Pyr personality can shift in some interesting ways.

Some mixes dial down the independence with a more playful or people-pleasing parent breed (hello, Pyrador). Others might double down on the drama, especially if the second breed also has a strong-willed streak (looking at you, Anatolian Pyrenees).

Whatever the mix, here’s what often shows up in Great Pyrenees mixes:

Common Traits Across Pyr Mixes

• Large to giant size – Most mixes tip the scales at 80+ lbs
• Protective instincts – They’ll bark, watch, and possibly “guard” your living room
• Heavy shedders – That double coat is no joke; a de-shedding tool is a must
• Calm but stubborn – Especially when off-leash or asked to do something “unnecessary”
• Deep family loyalty – They may pick a favorite human and follow them like a Velcro shadow

Because the Great Pyrenees brings such a strong personality to the mix, it’s important to research both parent breeds. You also need to be ready for a dog that’s not just big in size but also big in opinion.

Most Pyr mixes aren’t a good fit for apartment life or first-time owners. They need space, patience, and someone who understands the mind of a mountain dog.

Do you think your pup might have some Great Pyrenees in them? An at-home dog DNA test kit can tell you for sure; no guessing needed.

Family-Friendly & Gentle Giant Mixes

These best Great Pyrenees mixes are big, fluffy, and famously sweet. They tend to do well with kids, thrive in family environments, and are known more for cuddles than chaos (though they still might accidentally sit on your lap at 90 pounds).

1. Great Pytriever (Golden Retriever Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Families who want a gentle, people-loving dog with extra fluff.

The Great Pytriever blends the soft-hearted nature of the Golden Retriever with the calm, protective instincts of the Great Pyrenees. They are an affectionate and intelligent dog that reminds me of an enormous golden bear.

These dogs are typically sweet, eager to please, and great with children, making them one of the most family-friendly Pyr hybrids around. You can expect a large dog with a thick, golden-toned coat and a warm, social personality.

While they’re more trainable than a pure Pyr, they may still have an independent streak, especially when bored. Early socialization helps ensure their protective nature doesn’t turn into over-guarding.

While letting this cute breed get away with a lot is easy, I highly recommend consistent training and firm leadership. If this area is ignored, the Great Pytriever could develop an aversion to structure and boundaries, and their stubborn side is likely to manifest in bad behaviors.

Daily exercise is required to burn off their boisterous energy levels. A well-trained and exercised Great Pytreiver is a wonderfully affectionate pup.

The Golden Retriever adds family-dog charm, sociability, and patience. Head over to our Golden Retriever guide for more info on this classic family canine.

2. Pyredoodle (Poodle Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Allergy-conscious homes that still want a giant cuddlebug.

The Poodle remains a very popular breed to mix with other dogs, so, of course, I have a Great Pyrenees and Poodle mix for you.

The Pyredoodle is a designer hybrid that brings together the Poodle’s sharp mind and the Great Pyrenees’ gentle strength. These dogs tend to be affectionate and intelligent, often developing strong bonds with their families and displaying a protective streak.

While Poodles vary in size, the Standard Poodle is the most popular sized Poodle used to breed for this hybrid. This means the Pyredoodle will be pretty large, generally maturing around 100 pounds.

The Pyredoodle requires moderate exercise. If they feel understimulated, this breed has been known to get themselves into mischief, so keeping a consistent exercise routine will be important. 

While this mix does great in multiperson families and is incredibly loyal, both parent breeds have the propensity to be suspicious of strangers. This makes them an excellent watchdog.

However, they also require consistent socialization to curb any unwanted overprotectiveness. They may not be the first to make friends, but they are not known for being aggressive and can easily warm up if appropriately introduced. 

Depending on coat genetics, some Pyredoodles may inherit a low-shedding, curly coat more similar to a Poodle, though grooming is a must either way.

The Poodle contributes brainpower, bounce, and a low-shedding coat. Read our Poodle guide.

3. Pyrador (Labrador Retriever Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Active households looking for a loyal family dog with watchdog instincts.

The Pyrador mixes the ever-popular Labrador Retriever with the majestic Great Pyrenees, creating a dog that’s friendly, devoted, and protective. These hybrids often have strong energy levels, a love for human companionship, and a loyal nature that makes them excellent watchdogs.

Typically, the Pyrador is an active breed, meaning they enjoy activities that allow them to stretch their legs, so they are not suitable for apartments.

The Pyrador loves children and can be protective of their family. This is great for potential dog owners seeking a companion that will protect you and your family against intruders. If you’re looking for a devoted companion who is a great exercise buddy and wonderful with kids, look no further.

You’ll likely see a thick, medium-length coat and a personality that’s both fun-loving and serious about protecting the pack.

The Labrador Retriever brings playful energy, food motivation, and family-friendly loyalty. Read our Labrador Retriever guide to learn more about the other parent.

4. Saint Pyrenees (Saint Bernard Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Laid-back homes that can handle extra drool and extra love.

The Saint Pyrenees is a gentle giant in every sense, combining the calm, affectionate Saint Bernard with the noble, protective Great Pyrenees. This mix tends to be mellow, loving, and incredibly devoted to its people, especially children.

A Saint Pyrenees is the offspring of two giant breed parents and usually weighs well over 100 pounds. Like other big breeds, expect a shorter life span. Saint Pyrenees typically do not live longer than 10 years.

They’re not the most active breed but need regular exercise to prevent weight gain.

Their thick double coat and copious drool mean they require some tolerance for mess. But in exchange, you get a truly affectionate companion who wants nothing more than to be by your side.

The Saint Bernard adds mellow vibes, intense devotion, and a heart-melting expression. Read our Saint Bernard guide for more info.

Protective & Working Companion Mixes

These Great Pyrenees mixes were built for jobs. Whether it’s guarding livestock, watching the yard, or loyally following their person from room to room, these hybrids are alert, confident, and fiercely devoted. They thrive with structure, space, and experienced owners.

5. Anatolian Pyrenees (Anatolian Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Experienced owners who want a confident, independent guardian.

This hybrid blends two of the most formidable livestock guardian breeds on the planet. Anatolian Pyrenees are massive, territorial, and incredibly smart and are best suited for homes with space and a job to do.

While both the Anatolian Shepherd and Great Pyrenees are bred to guard livestock, mixing the two is actually quite unusual. Known as the Anatolian Pyrenees, this massive pup is very mellow and does well with children of all ages.

They can be protective at times, as is typical with many Pyrenees mixes, but they are not aggressive and can be very friendly even with strangers if they are given proper socialization and training. Expect a protective, self-assured dog who’s calm under pressure and quietly devoted to its family.

This mix does better with a strong leader who has experience with giant breeds. With the right structure, they are an extremely devoted companion.

The Anatolian Pyrenees tend to be very laid-back and affectionate – making this wonderful giant breed the perfect snuggle companion. Just make sure you have enough room on the couch. This mix loves to run and roam and should be given plenty of space to do so.

The Anatolian Shepherd brings fierce independence, intelligence, and serious working instincts. Explore the Anatolian Shepherd’s unique temperament and history.

6. Germanees (German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Owners looking for a smart, loyal, and protective companion.

Germanees may sound like a funny name, but this mix between a German Shepherd and a Great Pyrenees is no laughing matter.

The Germanees goes by a few other names like the Shepnese and Shep Py. They tend to weigh around a hundred pounds and are incredibly powerful and agile canines.

Both regal and beautiful, this fiercely devoted hybrid can be quite protective and formidable. This makes them excellent watch and family guard dogs, but they should be properly trained and socialized to make sure they can tell the difference between friend and foe.

I recommend strong and capable leadership for this pup, as they could easily overpower an owner they don’t consider “alpha.” For this reason, I recommend this breed to those who have experience with large breeds.

The German Shepherd adds sharp intelligence, courage, and trainable focus. Learn more about what makes German Shepherds such trusted companions.

7. Great Weilernees (Great Pyrenees Rottweiler Mix)

Best for: Owners who want a powerful, loyal guardian with a gentle heart.

The Great Weilernees is big, bold, and surprisingly affectionate once you’re part of the pack. This mix brings together the Rottweiler’s strength and natural guarding instincts with the calm, protective presence of the Great Pyrenees.

While they may appear intimidating, these dogs are often gentle and loyal to a fault with their families. Socialization from a young age is essential to ensure they grow up confident and not reactive.

If they are not properly socialized, they can also inherit territorial behaviors. Both parent breeds are known for being different types of guardian dogs, so that inherent breed nature can be hard to deter. The Great Weilernees needs a strong leader as they can be headstrong dogs that will require consistent training.

A Great Weilernees usually has a medium to long-length coat. When it comes to their size, they can weigh upwards of 100 pounds, easily pushing into giant breed territory.

Their coats can range in color. Typically, their coat colors will resemble their Rottweiler parent, but there’s also a chance you’ll see a mix of the two breeds together.

When it comes to temperament, the Great Weilernees can be a good family pet. Their size, however, may not be great for families with young kids. One quick swipe of their tail can clear a table.

The Rottweiler contributes strength, bravery, and deep loyalty to the family. Get the full picture of their temperament and care needs in our Rottie guide.

8. Maspyr (Mastiff Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Calm homes that want a huge, low-energy protector.

Massive and mellow, the Maspyr is a gentle giant with serious presence. This mix combines the sheer size and sweet nature of the Mastiff with the quiet watchfulness of the Great Pyrenees. They may not move fast, but they’ll always keep an eye on their people.

This giant pup can weigh up to 200 pounds. This makes them one of the largest breeds on my list and, therefore, not for everyone. In addition to their size, the Maspyr can be quite strong-willed and requires patience and persistence to train.

This breed, like many other giant breeds, expects a shorter lifespan. Maspyrs usually only live for about 6 to 10 years. The shorter lifespan is generally due to their size being harder on their body and is something to consider before adopting a Maspyr.

But if you are willing and able to dedicate the needed amount of time and love to this gentle giant, they will repay you with endless devotion and love.

The Mastiff brings calm courage, devotion, and extra mass to the mix. Find out what it takes to care for their mighty heart in our comprehensive Mastiff breed profile.

High-Energy & Active Mixes

If you want a dog that can keep up with your hikes, handle a backyard zoomie session, or just has more active personality per pound, these best Great Pyrenees mixes bring the heat. Expect brains, bounce, and big opinions, with a dash of drama.

9. Australian Pyrenees (Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Active homes that want a smart, agile, and watchful companion.

The Australian Pyrenees is a higher-energy mix that blends the herding instincts of the Australian Shepherd with the guarding nature of the Great Pyrenees. These dogs are intelligent, quick on their feet, and always alert.

The Aussie Pyrenees is perfect for someone who’s looking for a dog that’s slightly bigger than an Australian Shepherd yet smaller than a Great Pyrenees. You’ll likely end up with a medium or large-sized dog, depending on their parents.

Their coat colors range, but you’ll likely end up with a mix of coat colors, mostly from their Aussie parent. Some pups also inherit the quirky dual-colored eyes.

The Australian Pyrenees is an excellent family companion. Crossing the Aussie allows the friendly and energetic personality to come out in this unique mix.

They are less likely to be more reserved with strangers and due to their slightly smaller stature than their Pyrenees parents, will be better sized if your family has kids. The Aussie Pyrenees mix does have some herding instincts, but these can be subsided with proper exercise and training.

They do best with daily exercise and mental stimulation. Otherwise, they might get into trouble just to stay entertained. With proper training, they’re loyal, energetic, and surprisingly intuitive.

The Australian Shepherd adds agility, intelligence, and a strong work ethic. Get to know the Aussie’s high-energy personality.

10. Border Collie Pyrenees (Border Collie Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Highly engaged owners who want a working dog with brains and fluff.

This hybrid combines two working powerhouses: the independent guardian instincts of the Pyr and the brainiac herding drive of the Border Collie. The result? A clever, often headstrong dog who thrives with structure and a job.

This pup is quite energetic and generally is a larger-sized dog. This highly intelligent breed will need ample amounts of physical and mental stimulation and much more than your average breed. A house with a fenced backyard and owners dedicated to giving them opportunities to be active is needed. 

This mix likes to be made a priority in their family. They do not enjoy being left alone and can become destructive if they are unattended for long periods of time.

This mix is very intelligent, which usually means they should be easier to train than a Pyr. However, the Border Collie Pyrenees has been known to be quite stubborn and, therefore, requires consistent, dedicated training to master certain commands. 

The Border Collie brings unmatched intelligence and tireless focus. Read up on what it’s like to live with a Border Collie’s energy and drive.

11. Pyrenees Husky (Great Pyrenees Siberian Husky Mix)

Best for: Adventurous owners with patience, humor, and a secure fence.

This mix is part snowdog, part mountain guardian, and all personality. The Pyrenees Husky is energetic, vocal, and always up for a challenge. Whether it’s escaping the yard or convincing you to go on another walk.

This Pyrenees mix is an impressive giant breed who is likely to be a very large pup. Although, some Pyrenees Huskies can be on the smaller side if they take after the Husky parent.

The Pyrenees Husky is quite energetic and is a great adventure partner for active families. It is important to note they can become destructive if left under-stimulated. A regular exercise routine is imperative. 

This canine is very loyal to their family but also can be independent. They get this trait from their Husky side. This mix is extremely intelligent. But, they are known to be a bit stubborn and will need consistent and firm training.

The Pyrenees Husky is great for families with children, and they are both protective over and gentle with kids. If given love, attention, and stimulation, the Pyrenees Husky will be amiable and devoted, making them a wonderful option for dynamic families!  

The Siberian Husky adds endurance, playfulness, and a dramatic flair. Discover what makes the Husky one of the most entertaining breeds out there in our dedicated Husky breed profile.

Unique & Unusual Mixes

These best Pyrenees hybrids are anything but ordinary. Whether it’s their looks, temperament, or a surprising blend of traits, each one offers something unexpected and maybe exactly what you didn’t know you wanted in a dog.

12. Chownees (Chow Chow Great Pyrenees Mix)

Best for: Experienced owners who love independent dogs with a big presence.

The Chownees is a striking mix with a dense coat, broad build, and a bit of an attitude. Both parent breeds are known for their independence, so don’t expect a pushover. This mix is typically loyal to their inner circle but reserved (or downright aloof) with strangers.

The Chownees is a fluffy mix with lots of hair. It will range in color from black to white, orange, and even multi-color. The Chownees sheds A LOT. You’ll need to be prepared for regular grooming sessions if you adopt one into your home.

This mix is typically larger than a Chow but smaller than a Purebred Great Pyrenees. There’s a good chance your Chownees will inherit a dark-colored tongue from their Chow parentage, too.

This mix can also be somewhat territorial. Both parents are very well known for their guardian instincts. While the Chownees may not necessarily be known for biting, they may act somewhat assertive or even aggressive when people they don’t’ know enter their space.

Due to their size and temperaments, this breed isn’t usually recommended for families with excitable young kids.

The Chow Chow adds a dignified personality, a cat-like vibe, and a serious mane. Take a deeper dive into the unique traits of the Chow Chow.

13. Great Bernese (Great Pyrenees Bernese Mountain Dog Mix)

Best for: Families looking for a sweet, gentle giant with a patient streak.

This fluffy mashup combines two mellow mountain dogs into one very huggable package. The Great Bernese is typically gentle, affectionate, and a bit goofy. Making them ideal for families who want a dog that’s big but soft-hearted.

With two giant breed parents, the Great Bernese usually weighs between 85 and 190 pounds. However, despite their impressive size, they are very mellow animals. But this doesn’t mean they won’t need space to roam.

While naturally pleasant and good-natured, this breed can also be a bit stubborn. They require consistent training with an experienced leader. Provided this proper structure, the Great Bernese is an affectionate breed that will make a great family companion. 

Given a backyard and a loving family, this gentle and easy-going pup will certainly be happy. Just prepare for serious shedding and maybe a bit of clinginess.

The Bernese Mountain Dog brings warmth, sweetness, and a built-in sense of calm. Find out what makes Berners so beloved.

14. Great Pyredane (Great Pyrenees Great Dane Mix)

Best for: Experienced large-dog owners who love elegant giants.

The Great Pyredane is tall, graceful, and packed with gentle strength. This mix often takes on the Great Dane’s lanky height with the Pyr’s signature fluff and watchfulness. They’re loyal but may be aloof, and they often bond deeply with their families.

Two-parent breeds with “Great” in their name? This mix is sure to exceed expectations. One should also expect lots of hair from this breed because they are heavy shedders year-round. 

They are known for being quite independent, and the Great Pyrenees helps to temper the Great Dane’s tendency for separation anxiety. This is helpful for those who love Great Danes but are concerned about their difficulties with separation.

They can be somewhat guarded and become overprotective if not socialized properly. If you socialize them early, expect a very large but happy and boisterous pup.

They’re usually mellow indoors but need long daily walks to stay mentally and physically balanced.

The Great Dane adds height, elegance, and a surprisingly soft personality. Learn more about life with the Great Dane breed.

15. Great Wolfhound (Great Pyrenees Irish Wolfhound Mix)

Best for: Calm homes that want a quiet, loyal companion with big presence.

This rare mix combines the ancient Irish Wolfhound with the Great Pyrenees to produce a dog that looks like it stepped out of a medieval storybook. These dogs are massive, mellow, and quietly devoted to their families.

They are a faithful hybrid with lots of love to give! Likely to mature into a giant breed, this mix tends to weigh in at over a hundred pounds. Potential adopters should make sure they are equipped to take on such a large dog.

The Great Wolfhound is known for being protective of the ones they love. This, coupled with their large stature, make them an excellent choice for those who would like a guard dog to feel safe. However, they are rarely aggressive.  

While they are gentle with children, they should never be left unattended with kids as they are very big and accidents can happen!

It is important to socialize this mix regularly with people and other dogs. Their Irish Wolfhound side can lead them to be suspicious and even overprotective. Introducing them to new situations frequently can help with this.

The Irish Wolfhound contributes quiet grace, soft temperament, and noble looks. Explore the legacy and lifestyle of the Irish Wolfhound.

16. Pyrenees Pit (Great Pyrenees Pit Bull Mix)

Best for: Active, dog-savvy owners who want loyalty with a big heart.

The Pyrenees Pit may sound intimidating, but this mix often turns out affectionate, goofy, and loyal. They typically inherit the Pit Bull’s love for people and the Pyr’s protective streak, making them alert, sweet, and family-focused.

The Pyrenees Pit is quite the specimen, both very athletic and muscular. They require a strong leader to follow, preferably someone who is experienced with large dogs.

This hybrid is known for their incredible loyalty. They will do anything for their family, but this also means they can be quite protective. It is very important to train your Pyrenees Pit mix to know when guarding is appropriate and not. 

The Pyrenees Pittie may look intimidating, but they are actually quite gentle in most cases. There are many misconceptions about Pit Bulls, but they are very sweet in the proper environment. However, the Pyrenees Pit should still be closely watched during interactions with small children, unfamiliar animals, and strangers.

The Pyrenees Pit is a very eager-to-please dog. This trait makes them more trainable and obedient than a Pyr, which is good news with such a powerful dog. While this mix looks intimidating, like most pups, they just want to be loved by their family.

The Pit Bull brings courage, charisma, and a deeply affectionate nature. Get the facts about this misunderstood breed in our Pitbull guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Great Pyrenees Mixes

Still curious about these gentle giants and their many mixes? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear. Got one we didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments – we’d love to hear from you!

Are Great Pyrenees Mixes Good Family Dogs?

Yes, many of them are! Mixes like the Great Pytriever, Pyrador, and Great Bernese are known for being gentle, affectionate, and great with kids.

But any of these mixes in the right home could make brilliant family pets. Just keep in mind that they’re large dogs, and early training is key to helping them learn boundaries.

Do Great Pyrenees Mixes Shed A Lot?

Almost always. The Great Pyrenees has a thick double coat, so most mixes will shed heavily, especially during seasonal changes. If you want a lower-shed option, the Pyredoodle (Poodle mix) is your best bet, but even this pup isn’t completely shed-free.

Are Great Pyrenees Mixes Easy To Train?

Not usually. The Great Pyrenees is famously independent and strong-willed, and many mixes inherit that trait. If the other breed is more eager to please (like a Labrador or Golden Retriever), training is usually easier, but consistency and patience are still required.

How Big Do Great Pyrenees Mixes Get?

Most fall between 80 and 120+ pounds, depending on the other breed. Mixes with Mastiffs, Great Danes, or Saint Bernards can push well beyond that range. If you’re tight on space, most of these mixes may not be the best fit.

Do Great Pyrenees Mixes Make Good Guard Dogs?

Yes. Even the sweeter, family-oriented mixes tend to be naturally alert and protective. Great Pyrenees instincts run deep as they were bred to guard flocks alone in the mountains. Expect watchful behavior, some barking, and a tendency to keep an eye on strangers.

How Much Exercise Do Great Pyrenees Mixes Need?

It varies by mix. Some (like the Maspyr or Saint Pyrenees) are couch potatoes with big hearts. Others (like the Pyrenees Husky or Border Collie Pyrenees) need much more daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay sane. So, be sure to research both parent breeds before choosing.

Are These Mixes Good For First-Time Dog Owners?

Some are, but not all. Mixes with Golden Retrievers, Labradors, or Poodles are more beginner-friendly. Breeds like the Anatolian Shepherd or Husky can add intensity and stubbornness, which may overwhelm new owners.

More Helpful Reads For Big Dog Owners

Do you have a gentle giant at home, or are you thinking of bringing one in? I’ve rounded up our best resources to keep your Great Pyrenees mix healthy, happy, and entertained.

For power chewers with jaws like steel traps, check out our guide to the best tough dog toys that actually survive. Plus, keep their minds busy (and out of trouble) with these brain games and interactive enrichment toys for smart dogs.

Support their joints with one of these top-rated orthopedic dog beds, including our favorite choices built for large breeds. And don’t miss our breakdown of the best pet insurance because when you’ve got a big dog, surprise vet bills can be really big, too.

Are you thinking about adopting a Great Pyrenees mix? Perhaps you’re already lucky enough to have a Great Pyrenees mix at home? Either way, we’d love to hear about them! Drop your stories, quirks, or funny moments in the comments because we’re all ears.