Choose a reputable breeder instead of the pet store or a casual “backyard” breeder. Lists of breeders are available from local Great Pyrenees clubs and from the national club. While membership in a breed club does not automatically confer respectability, most responsible breeders belong to theirregional and/or national Great Pyrenees Club. Members of the Great Pyrenees Club of America, as well as many regional Pyr clubs, are bound by a Code of Ethics that outlines the proper care and treatment of dogs and relationships among members. Ask to see a copy of this Code. It outlines what you have a right to expect as a buyer.

Ask to see the parents of the puppy you are interested in. Ask to see a copy of theOFA or GDC certificate that shows the parents are both free of hip dysplasia. Make sure the surroundings are clean and that the puppy is healthy. Look for the happy, outgoing puppy. You don’t want a shy, emaciated or sickly-appearing pup. Make sure the coat carries a glossy shine, a sign of good health. There should be no discharge from eyes or nose, and a pup should stand up on strong legs and good feet.

Inquire about a breeder-buyer contract which explains what is expected of you, the buyer, and of the breeder. Your pup should come from registered parents, who have proof of freedom from hip dysplasia, should have a pedigree from the breeder, a health record showing when and what had been given in the way of inoculations and medication, and care and feeding instructions.

If you’re buying a puppy, it should be at least 8 weeks old; 9 to 12 weeks is a good time for a pup to leave its litter. But don’t overlook an older pup, provided it is outgoing, happy to see people and in good health. Many responsible breeders are concerned that their pups go to excellent homes and are willing to keep apup longer until that home comes along.. Carefully bred and cared for Great Pyrenees puppies are not inexpensive. While prices may vary, people who sell pups for much less than the average for your area probably have not put as much time or care into the breeding or rearing of their pups.