Pyrenean Shepherd vs Hygenhund - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Shepherd vs Hygenhund - Breed ComparisonHygenhund is originated from Norway but Pyrenean Shepherd is originated from Spain. Hygenhund may grow 11 cm / 5 inches higher than Pyrenean Shepherd. Both Hygenhund and Pyrenean Shepherd are having almost same weight. Both Hygenhund and Pyrenean Shepherd has same life span. Hygenhund may have more litter size than Pyrenean Shepherd. Both Hygenhund and Pyrenean Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Herding dogs
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Norway
Spain
Height Male:
48 - 61 cm
18 - 25 inches
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
Height Female:
45 - 58 cm
17 - 23 inches
38 - 50 cm
14 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
20 - 25 kg
44 - 56 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 20 kg
33 - 45 pounds
14 - 20 kg
30 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 8
2 - 4
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Hygen Hound, Hygen Dog
Pyr Shep
Colors Available:
sometimes combined with white markings. , chestnut (with or without black shading) and black with bright chestnut colors, yellow and red
grey, black overlay occasionally, Fawn, some white - solid colors or tri-colored
Coat:
thick, shiny
Long or short haired - soft or wiry
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Alert, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Protective
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

hygenhundThe Hygenhund is a hound from Norway that was developed in the early 1800’s by the Norwegian breeder Hygen. It was developed for hunting small game such as fox, rabbit, hare or racoon. It is known for its endurance and ability to survive travel across vast artic land without fatigue. It was developed by crossing several Norwegian hounds with ones from England and Germany. This includes basset hounds, holsteiner hounds, beagles, Bloodhounds, Scandinavian hounds and English Pointers. The resulting Hygehound is a scent hound whose popularity fell in the 20th century. Most of the remaining dogs today are located in Norway. The Norwegian Kennel Club and the UKC have both recognized the breed yet its numbers remain low. Even at that the breed today remains a great hunting dog but it is also a great companion or family dog.

pyrenean shepherdThe Pyrenean Shepherd hails from Spain where he has always been used to herd sheep. Some people believe he is a descendant of the French Catalan Sheepdog while others say from the Briard. Nobody is too sure.

He is actually the smallest of the French herding breeds. It is interesting to note that he still does this herding job today. It was in the 19th century that a few of these dogs left for America with shepherds who found work herding flocks in the American West.

These dogs were also used in World War 1 as messenger dogs.

It was during the 1970's and 1980's that breeding programs were started for the dog and The Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1987. The dog was also recognized in 2009 by the American Kennel Club.

Description

Description

hygenhund puppy - descriptionThe Hygenhund has a solid rectangular and compact body with muscular and compact legs and paws. Their heads are shaped like a triangle with dark eyes and a broad skull. The muzzle and neck are long and the topline is even. They carry their tail high, but they do not curl it over their back. They are a medium sized dog with short hair. They have an overabundance of energy and get bored easily. They can come in black with chestnut or white markings, yellow and red, chestnut without or with black markings.

pyrenean shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Pyrenean Shepherd is a medium-sized dog standing at between 38 and 50cm in height and weighing between 14 and 20kg.

His head is fairly small with large, bright, expressive eyes. The ears are semi-erect. The tail has always traditionally been docked but often left long these days.

He comes with two different coat types – rough and smooth with sometimes both types being in the same litter. The dog is a regular shedder. The coat can be medium length or long and slightly wavy with a harsh texture. The coat can be of the shorter type with finer, softer hair. The coat is available in different colors and patterns, and can be a fawn color or grey and you will find a black overlay occasionally with some white. The coat can be tri-colored or he can be in solid colors such as cream or white.

Temperament:

Your feisty Pyrenean Shepherd is a dog with plenty of personality. He is also full of energy and will love to live with a outdoorsy-type family who are always on the go, because he’s in on everything.

He is distrustful of strangers and this together with the fact that he is so alert, makes him a splendid watchdog too.

He will need to be trained and socialized as he can be overly robust. He becomes obedient and well mannered, being totally dedicated to his owner. It isn’t easy for him to be separated from his beloved human owner.

Characteristics

hygenhund dog - characteristics1. Children friendliness – The Hygenhund is very friendly to children and love to play with them.

Special talents

Stamina, intelligence and ability to endure cold climates.

Adaptability

Very adaptable in some ways – enduring cold climates for instance. However, they need a large yard or area to run in. They are not as adaptable in an apartment.

Learning ability

The Hygenhund is very intelligent and a quick learner. They love learning new things.

pyrenean shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is essentially a one-person dog, becoming totally attached to one particular person in the family.

He is known as a dog who becomes totally loyal to his human family, getting on well with children as well as with other pets in the home.

He is aloof and wary of strangers. Training and socialization is important so as to avoid aggression and fear. This is one dog that requires being diligently exercised every day.

He is a great watchdog, and when you add up all his fantastic qualities, you get to realize what a splendid companion and pet this wonderful dog makes.

Health Problems

The Hygenhund is prone to a variety of health problems including:

  • Kidney Stones/Chronic Kidney Infections
  • Food Allergies
  • Arthritis – can cause lameness
  • Bloat – can be fatal if not treated
  • Von Willebrands Disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity
  • Hip Dysplasia – can result in lameness or arthritis

pyrenean shepherd puppies - health problemsThe Pyrenean Shepherd is such a jovial little dog that you just can’t imagine him ever being sick. When he is lethargic, you'll know there is something seriously wrong with him because he is always as bright as a button.

He can however get sick, and there are a few dog illnesses such as epilepsy, eye problems and hip dysplasia that can be very painful ad debilitating for such an energetic dog. You don’t have to be too concerned though, as he is a dog known to have minimal health issues.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

hygenhund dogs - caringSince the Hygenhund is such a high energy working dog feed a high quality food. Feed 3-4 times a day for a total of 2.3 cups.

Feeding the adult

Again this is a high energy dog. Feed a high protein good quality dog food twice a day for a total of 3-4 cups.

Points for Good Health

Good speed and stamina. Good in cold climates.

Games and Exercises

The Hygenhund needs plenty of exercise to dissipate all its working energy. They will excel at field trials, lure coursing, fly ball, tracking, and agility.

Grooming:

pyrenean shepherd dogs - caringThis will depend on the coat type. Both coat types will essentially require you brushing him twice a week.

Exercise:

The Pyr Shep’s activity levels are very high and this dog will require living with people who love outdoor activities. He’s the perfect companion for those camping trips or hikes. He is always ready to join you on your walks and will be ready and waiting to jump right in when he sees you with a ball or frisbee.

Diet:

For all that energy, your Pyrenean Shepherd will be needing the best dog food there is. Food full of preservatives and colorants can be bad for your pet, detrimental to his health.

Good food full of vitamins and minerals will ensure your pet stands a good chance of living a long, healthy life. If you feed him commercially manufactured dog food, ensure its the best there is, with labeling on the packaging that tells you its for his age, his size and energy levels.

Consistency and simplicity is what your Pyrenean Shepherd wants, and home-made food can enhance his dry kibble. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots all chopped up and mixed into the dry kibble once or twice a week will ensure your pet’s eyes are continuously bright and alert and his tail constantly wagging.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also go towards ensuring his good health. Always make sure he has access to fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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  26. Hygenhund vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Hygenhund vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Hygenhund vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Hygenhund vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Hygenhund vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Hygenhund vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Hygenhund vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Hygenhund vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Hygenhund vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Hygenhund vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Hygenhund vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Hygenhund vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Hygenhund vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Hygenhund vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Hygenhund vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Hygenhund vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Hygenhund vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Hygenhund vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Hygenhund vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Hygenhund vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Hygenhund vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Hygenhund vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Hygenhund vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Hygenhund vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Hygenhund vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison