Maremma Sheepdog Vs Great Pyrenees: Top Key Differences

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At a glance, it can be difficult to tell the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees apart. After all, they are two large dogs with thick, fluffy coats – they’re nearly twins! However, at the end of the day, these are two distinct breeds, and if you were to compare the Maremma sheepdog vs the Great Pyrenees, you’re bound to find some interesting distinctions, including the 8 key differences we’ll be talking about!

To learn more about what sets the Maremma Sheepdog apart from the Great Pyrenees (and possibly which one might make a better pet for you), keep reading. 

Comparing the Maremma Sheepdog and Great Pyrenees

It can be difficult to tell the difference between the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees at a glance. We’ve broken up some of their key differences here to make a comparison easier.

Maremma Sheepdog Vs Great Pyrenees: 8 Key Differences

Overall, the Great Pyrenees and Maremma Sheepdog are fairly similar. After all, both have thick white coats and are used as farm dogs to help protect livestock. However, the Great Pyrenees is around 8 percent taller and tends to be more strong-willed and independent, whereas the Maremma Sheepdog is eager to please. This also means that the sheepdog is easier to train, as they won’t be as likely to test boundaries. The Maremma Sheepdog also lives considerably longer, with a life expectancy of over 13 years.

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Let’s take a closer look at the Maremma Sheepdog vs the Great Pyrenees to see the key differences that set them apart.

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Size

Chances are, you wouldn’t be able to tell whether or not the Maremma Sheepdog or the Great Pyrenees was bigger unless you were to place them side by side and analyze them closely. The difference between these two is mere inches, and those that break the limits of the average might even be the same size. 

However, when it comes to that average number, the Great Pyrenees out-sizes the Maremma Sheepdog by an inch (or two). At their smallest, the average Great Pyrenees stands 25 inches tall at the shoulders, while the smallest Maremma sheepdog falls in at 23 inches. 

The difference is slightly more noticeable when it comes to weight, with the largest Great Pyrenees weighing 50 pounds more than the Maremma Sheepdog. That difference is the same as a small bale of hay!

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Coat

While both the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees share the same large white coat, they’re not made equally. The Maremma Sheepdog typically only has large sheds twice a year and can work well with regular brushing. The Great Pyrenees, however, is a high shedder that seems to leave white hair no matter where they go. 

Both breeds require other regular grooming as well, such as nails, teeth, and ears. 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Temperament

The Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees have a similar temperament. Both are gentle when needed, intelligent, and affectionate with family members. However, both also are fiercely loyal and protective. 

The Great Pyrenees tends to be a bit more strong-willed. This can make training a bit more difficult for them, although it isn’t impossible (and it is essential and necessary for a healthy, happy dog!). 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Trainability

With high intelligence levels, both of these breeds are known for their trainability. However, just because they have high trainability, doesn’t necessarily mean both the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees are easy to train.

Or at least the Great Pyrenees, that is. 

While the Maremma Sheepdog is eager to please and listens well to commands, the Great Pyrenees is much more independent and strong-willed. This means that while they can easily learn commands, they may not be willing to. 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Life Expectancy

You can expect to spend several happy years with both of these dog breeds. Maremma Sheepdogs tend to live longer than Great Pyrenees by at least a year. This may be due to the additional health problems that are genetic in the Great Pyrenees, although both breeds face some common disorders and diseases. 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Health

As larger breeds, both the Great Pyrenees and the Maremma Sheepdog suffer from common ailments such as hip dysplasia. The Great Pyrenees, however, is more prone to other conditions, such as hormone disorders or eye problems. 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Energy

While they may be considered protective pets, Great Pyrenees dogs aren’t working dogs. As a result, you’ll find that they have a much lower energy level compared to some other breeds. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t need any exercise at all. Your Great Pyrenees needs at least 45 minutes to an hour of physical activity each day, with many being okay with up to two hours. Just take precautions when it’s hot out so that your pup doesn’t overheat. 

The Maremma Sheepdog is similar in terms of energy level, although you may find that individual dogs require more or less exercise time than others. 

Maremma Sheepdog vs Great Pyrenees: Noise

When it comes to noise, both of these breeds love to carry on a conversation. However, with a high noise level, the Great Pyrenees is slightly noisier than the Maremma Sheepdog. 

Although, if you’re looking for a breed that doesn’t bark at all, or has a relatively low noise level, neither of these breeds fit that description. As natural watchdogs with high intelligence, they’re more likely to interact with their environment in the best way they can – through barking. 

Conclusion

If there’s one thing for sure, whether it’s appearance, behavior, or other basic facts, the Maremma Sheepdog and the Great Pyrenees are two very similar dog breeds. However, it’s the little things that make the difference. For instance, while they share a similar coat, you may find the Great Pyrenees sheds more than the sheepdog. There are also subtle size differences when it comes to both weight and height. While both can be a perfect fit for a family prepared to meet their needs, the Maremma sheepdog may be a better option for those looking for less grooming and more ease of training.