Somewhere on the pastures of the Pyrenees mountains, on the border between Spain and France, was where the Great Pyrenees breed first appeared. Some say that this huge dog is wolf-like, others say that he is bear-like. All we know for certain, is that he is so strong that he can fight both of them.
One may ask, how much does a Great Pyrenees cost? What is the price of having such a huge dog? There are people who claim that the bigger the dog, the bigger the expenses.
You have to ask yourself if a large dog is something that you want and that you can afford. Is it possible for you to meet all of his needs? Does the temperament of a specific dog breed suit you and your family?
Let’s check out what the initial and final annual expenses are when it comes to the price of a Great Pyrenees. Let’s check out the answer to “how much does a Great Pyrenees cost?”
How Much Does A Great Pyrenees Cost?
Before you even think about buying a dog, you should do some research and check out the traits of the desired breed and how much having such a large breed will cost. Learn more on this dog’s size in our Great Pyrenees growth chart.
For a Great Pyrenees, it depends but we can say that it is about $1500 for a fine dog. The cost of a Great Pyrenees over his lifespan is about $30,000.
Before we dive into the numbers to see the answer to “how much does a Great Pyrenees cost?”, we should learn a few facts about this guardian dog.
This Pyrenean mountain dog got his name from his place of birth. It was always a battle between the French and Spanish court over this livestock guardian. It is a dog with an impressive size and it was even pronounced the royal dog of France. Well, that is quite a title.
Even though he sometimes looks terrifying, the Great Pyrenees proved himself as a fine family dog who is loveable, sweet, and endearing. It will show you a lot of love, especially toward kids.
But, he will also show his teeth if necessary. This is only in threatening situations. After all, it is a guard dog.
It really is a dog that many can only wish for. It is among the tallest dog breeds and it looks intimidating. Think about giving him a sweet big dog name and you will have a pooch that is the whole package.
Now that we have met him, let’s find out the answer to “how much does a Great Pyrenees cost?” Maybe it is best if we start with the puppy prices and then, later on, we can discuss the further expenses.
How Much Do Great Pyrenees Puppies Cost?
The range of prices for Great Pyrenees puppies varies from $50 to $2500 dollars. You may ask how this is even possible. So, what is it that affects the price of the Great Pyrenees?
If you want to buy this watchdog from a reputable breeder, then the cost will be higher. Great Pyrenees breeders invest a lot of money to produce and raise high quality dogs and this means a higher price for purchasers.
Puppies With Papers
Prices for purebred Pyr from reputable breeders start at $1000 and go up from there. The average price is about $1500 but it depends on the breeder. Some breeders sell puppies for even higher and you can find these dogs being sold for $2000, some reach prices of $4000 and there are even prices of an enormous $8000.
You must remember that price is not the main indicator of quality, because there are a lot of different factors that need to be considered when purchasing a dog.
Puppies Without Papers
Prices go down when you are not looking for a reputable breeder or when the papers and the pedigree of a dog are not something you are worried about. Then, you will pay somewhere between $150 and $250 for your dog, which is not a big price. It all comes down to what you prefer.
I think that puppy mills and obscure breeders that want to make a business out of this are something that should be avoided, for the sake of the puppies and for the other breeders who do it for their love of the dogs and not for money.
The problem with puppy mills is not the fact that they want to make money, but the conditions that their puppies live in, which are inhumane.
Although, I must add that not all people who sell puppies without papers are doing it for the wrong reasons.
The price of dogs without papers also depends on a lot of factors. It sometimes depends on the area where you live. It also depends on the health procedures that the dogs have had. Does he have all his vaccinations and dewormings?
Puppies From Rescues
If you want to do a good deed and get yourself a cute dog, I recommend that you visit one of the amazing Great Pyrenees rescues.
There are many rescue groups that are all doing their best to save abandoned Great Pyrenees puppies and get dogs off the street. This means that these dogs need warm and loving homes and someone who will provide them with the affection and love that they deserve.
So, if you decide to get a dog from one of the rescues, the price you will pay can be symbolic. Sometimes it is just $50. Sometimes, it can be $500. It all depends on how much medical care your desired puppy has had.
What Are The Factors That Influence The Cost Of The Great Pyrenees?
As with any other dog breed, there are many things that determine how much a Great Pyrenees costs. When looking for a Great Pyrenees breeder, cast an eye on the ”items” that are included in the package.
Let’s see which factors cause higher prices from reputable breeders.
Pedigree
While we can all agree that all dogs are beautiful in their own way, there are people who prefer dogs that can compete in conformation shows and that are really interested in such activities.
That is the point where we must come to the decision as to whether we want a purebred or a mixed breed. Prices for mixed breeds are significantly lower than they are for purebreds.
All of these expensive dogs, especially those that are super expensive, have clear bloodlines that can be traced back for a few generations.
These people breed dogs in controlled conditions, making sure that every little detail is planned and under supervision. That is one of the ways that they are trying to reduce the transfer of genetic issues and raise dogs with the best qualities.
Health
There is a reason that some dogs are much more expensive than others. The Great Pyrenees is a dog that has many of the health problems that big dogs are prone to.
This requires breeders to perform a lot of medical procedures and tests that will eliminate any transfers of these problems.
There are a few medical conditions that are common for these types of dogs and they can be identified by tests. The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) has a database and prescribes the CHIC number that helps to evaluate dogs’ health.
Reputable breeders put their puppies through a variety of tests for common health conditions. The most common health issues are hip dysplasia, bloat, patella luxation, elbow dysplasia, thyroid issues, multifocal retinopathy, and cardiac issues.
Reputable breeders check for these issues by providing their dogs with DNA testing, OFA, AVA, PennHip, and FCI check ups. All of these tests cost money. Also, vet bills are usually high when it comes to both basic and more serious exams.
Age
The age of a dog is one of the crucial factors when it comes to your question of, “how much does a Great Pyrenees cost?” Young dogs, specifically puppies, are much more expensive than adult dogs.
When there is a higher demand, then the cost of supply rises and the provider can condition their prices.
Training
Anyone who wants a dog that is already trained and has passed the socialization process, must be prepared for the fact that this will also affect the price of the dog.
But, it is a very important milestone for the dog. There is a huge difference between trained and untrained dogs. Especially when it comes to first time owners or someone who does not have enough training skills.
If you are interested in more information about training, read our article on Great Pyrenees training tips!
Papers
Dogs that have a lot of paperwork cost more. Breeders that want to maintain their reputation will be registered as part of clubs or organizations, for example the American Kennel Club or in this case, the Great Pyrenees Club Of America.
The umbrella organization for all of the canine clubs out there is the American Kennel Club (AKC). It provides full and limited registration for dogs. Full registration adds to a dog’s price and these puppies will cost more.
A higher price will also include a certificate about the origin of the dog, including their pedigree certificate.
All of the health testing should be registered on the health certificate, along with proof of dewormings and any vaccines that have been given.
Besides what has been stated already, these dogs also often have proof of being microchipped and a contract that the new owner will spay/neuter them.
Puppies that have a limited registration cost on average between $500 and $900. Puppies with a full registration cost on average from $1000 to $1500, although that number can be even higher.
How Much Does A Great Pyrenees Cost Per Year?
The first year is the most expensive for an owner. That is because you have to supply your home with all the necessary items that will make your dog comfortable living with you.
There are some estimates that state you will spend between $1000 and $3000 on the dog’s expenses in the first year. Every other year, it will cost you between $500 and $1000.
Of course, this price can be even higher if you decide to buy all the most expensive items or additional items that are not considered basic necessities.
It is wise to do some research and compare prices, for example, check the prices of some products on Amazon compared to in your local pet stores.
We have already said that the average cost of the Great Pyrenees over his lifespan is approximately $30,000. If you have more expensive preferences and you are willing to spend more money on your dog, then the cost for your big boy can reach around $70,000 with an upper limit of almost $200,000.
Great Pyrenees Dog: Additional Expenses
We will now say a bit more about the cost of additional necessities that should be purchased for a large dog. We will list some average prices. Of course, prices depend on the item and there are always many choices. You can choose some that are more or less expensive.
Some puppies come with a starter pack that includes some basic items, such as a blanket, toys, health certificate, basic health check ups, first shots, or pet insurance.
But, not all breeders include these in the price.
All in all, there are a few things that should be ready for when your puppy first arrives. And then, there are other things that will need to be supplied later.
Basic Supplies
Some basic supplies include bowls, collars, and a pooper scooper, which can range in price from $10 to $40. You will also need a leash, clippers, and a brush for his thick undercoat, which can be found for prices from $5 to $30.
Their double coat needs regular washing to prevent matting, so shampoo is necessary, as well as a toothbrush for healthy and strong teeth. These articles, as well as a spray for their stains and odor, will range from $5 to $20. The cost of an ID tag is approximately the same.
A first aid kit for your doggo will cost you from $15 to $50.
Now, we need to talk a little more about the more expensive supplies. Dog beds can be purchased for a price in the range of $30 to $110, while a dog crate costs at least $50, but you can also find them for as much as $165.
Don’t forget the poop bags. They have a really wide range of prices, from $15 to $110. As well as toys, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $155.
When you put it all together and calculate the average price, all of this will cost you about $500 if you are buying them for the first time. Next year, these bits will cost you about $200 on average.
Healthcare
When it comes to health care, there is a possibility of great expenses here. Usually, the number of vet visits is lower later on in a dog’s life, unless he has some problems and becomes ill.
But, as the dog gets bigger, so do the prices. That is why you will pay around $650 for medical procedures in the first year, while the next year will cost you almost $800.
Puppiesr have three visits to the veterinary clinic in their first year, which cost from $65 to $170 dollars. Dewormings will cost you from $75 to $150, while shots will cost you from $100 to $150. A Spay/neuter procedure can be from $200 to $500.
The following expenses might or might not occur but you should be aware of them regardless. There are common health issues that big dogs sometimes face (this is something that reputable breeders are trying to reduce).
These are hip dysplasia, the treatment for which can cost from $500 to $13,000. Then, there is also elbow dysplasia, which can cost from $2000 to $3500. The treatment for a rupture of a ligament can cost from $150 to $3500. Cancer treatment can cost from $500 to $10,000.
Food
Since these are Mastiff type dogs, this means that they are large, which also means that their appetites are huge too. Therefore, the amount of dog food you should provide is not small.
Over their first year, the Great Pyrenees puppy can eat enough dog food to be worth $300 to $700, while an adult dog can eat pretty much the same, from $200 to $700. The reason for this is that puppy food is much more expensive than adult dog food.
And, if you want to provide your dog with treats, then you will have to pay from $100 to $700 a year.
The Great Pyrenees feeding chart might also be a useful tool in determining the nutritional needs of your dog.
Maintenance
If you are not a skilled trainer or you don’t have any experience with dogs and the Great Pyrenees is your first one, then you might need the services of a professional trainer.
Although the prices range from place to place, professional training usually costs from $150 to $200. This usually includes five training sessions that last one hour.
Then, there is optional health insurance, which can cost around $600 per year.
It is true that the Great Pyrenees shed. When it comes to their grooming needs, this breed needs professional help six times a year. Of course, this is if you do not want to do it by yourself. This service will cost you from $60 to $150, and that is a maximum of approximately $800 dollars per year.
To Wrap Up On The Great Pyrenees Cost
When we talk about the question, “how much does a Great Pyrenees cost?”, there are many factors that need to be included. This herding dog is really huge, as big as Newfoundlands or Saint Bernards, so the cost for this breed is bigger too.
There are some estimates available for the average costs of purchasing such a huge dog. It all depends on the place you are purchasing from, but the average cost is about $1500 for a puppy.
Considering the lifespan of this dog, it is estimated that the cost for their lifetime is up to $30,000 dollars. If you have more money to spend on your dog and you are open to spending more, then this price can even reach $200,000 dollars.
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