The Great Pyrenees, with their majestic white coat and calm demeanor, are one of the most recognizable and beloved giant breeds. However, other breeds share similar looks, temperaments, or purposes. Whether you’re drawn to their noble appearance or gentle personality, these breeds are worth exploring. Let’s dive into eight breeds that might make you do a double take when compared to the Great Pyrenees.

1. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz, like the Great Pyrenees, is a large, white-coated breed that exudes elegance and strength. Originating from Hungary, this breed was traditionally used as a livestock guardian, a role it still excels in today. Its thick, weather-resistant coat and powerful build make it well-suited for outdoor work, just like its Pyrenean counterpart. The Kuvasz is highly intelligent and fiercely protective of its family, often forming deep bonds with its owners. Despite their imposing size and fearless nature, they have a gentle side, particularly with children. These qualities, paired with their striking resemblance to the Great Pyrenees, often lead people to mistake one for the other. However, the Kuvasz’s slightly leaner build and wavier coat help set it apart for those familiar with the breeds.

2. Maremma Sheepdog

The Maremma sheepdog hails from Italy and is another breed often confused with the Great Pyrenees. With its large, white frame and fluffy coat, it’s no surprise that this hardworking guardian is mistaken for its French counterpart. Bred to protect livestock from predators, the Maremma has a fiercely independent streak and an instinct to assess threats. They are loyal to their flock—whether it’s sheep or a human family—and form strong protective bonds. Their dense coat is designed to withstand harsh weather, and their calm, confident demeanor ensures they take their guarding duties seriously. While similar in appearance, the Maremma tends to have a more fox-like face and slightly shorter coat than the Great Pyrenees. These subtle differences make them unique while still evoking that familiar regal charm.

3. Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd, though more tan and fawn-colored than white, shares several features with the Great Pyrenees, including its towering size and strong protective instincts. Originating from Turkey, this breed was developed to guard livestock and is known for its resilience and independence. They have a double coat, which may appear in lighter shades, adding to their resemblance to the Great Pyrenees. Like their Pyrenean cousins, Anatolians are reserved with strangers but incredibly loyal to their families. Their muscular frame and imposing presence often serve as a deterrent to predators. While their temperament and guarding instincts align closely with the Great Pyrenees, the Anatolian Shepherd tends to be slightly more athletic and less fluffy, making them an ideal choice for those who love the Pyrenean temperament but seek a leaner look.

4. Samoyed

The Samoyed, with its fluffy white coat and friendly smile, is a smaller, more cheerful cousin to the Great Pyrenees. Originally bred in Siberia to herd reindeer and pull sleds, this breed has a natural affinity for cold climates, just like the Great Pyrenees. Their thick, weatherproof coat and muscular build make them capable workers, but it’s their affectionate nature that sets them apart. Unlike the reserved demeanor of the Great Pyrenees, Samoyeds are highly social and thrive on human interaction. They share the same striking white coat, though the Samoyed’s fur is often even softer and fluffier. While their size is significantly smaller, their presence is just as striking, making them a favorite among those who love the look of the Great Pyrenees but prefer a more energetic and playful companion.

5. Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is a breed that shares the same guardian instincts and impressive size as the Great Pyrenees. Although their coat colors vary widely, lighter-colored Tibetan mastiffs can look remarkably similar to the Pyrenees. These dogs were bred in the Himalayas to guard livestock and monasteries, and their temperament reflects their protective heritage. With their thick double coat, broad head, and deep-set eyes, they exude an aura of strength and nobility. Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their independent nature and selective loyalty, making them both challenging and rewarding companions. While their fluffier appearance and occasional reddish hues distinguish them from the Pyrenees, their size, guarding instincts, and calm yet commanding presence make them a comparable breed for those drawn to the Pyrenean personality.

6. Akbash

The Akbash is another Turkish breed that bears a striking resemblance to the Great Pyrenees. With its predominantly white coat and large muscular build, this breed was developed for livestock guardians. Akbash dogs are known for their keen awareness and ability to assess threats, much like their Pyrenean counterparts. They are highly independent and capable of making decisions on their own to protect their flock. Despite their serious demeanor, they are affectionate with their families and gentle with children. The Akbash has a sleeker, more streamlined appearance than the Great Pyrenees, with a shorter coat and a less fluffy tail. This makes them a great choice for those who admire the Pyrenees’ guarding traits but want a dog with slightly lower grooming needs.

7. Polish Tatra Sheepdog

The Polish Tatra sheepdog, also known as the Tatra Mountain sheepdog, is another large, white-coated breed often compared to the Great Pyrenees. Originating from Poland, this breed was bred to guard livestock in mountainous regions, making it a strong, dependable protector. Its thick, weather-resistant coat is similar to that of the Pyrenees, and its calm, composed demeanor mirrors its French cousin. Polish Tatra sheepdogs are loyal and affectionate with their families yet wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. They are slightly smaller and stockier than the Great Pyrenees, with a distinctively more rounded head shape. These subtle differences, paired with their shared purpose and temperament, make them a fascinating alternative for fans of the Pyrenean breed.

8. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland might seem like an unusual inclusion, but lighter-colored Newfoundlands can resemble the Great Pyrenees in both size and fluff factor. Known for their sweet nature and incredible strength, Newfoundlands are water rescue dogs by nature but share a similar calm and loyal temperament. Their thick double coat, while often black or brown, can also appear in a white-and-black pattern that evokes the Great Pyrenees’ signature look. Newfoundlands are gentle giants, famous for their patience with children and eagerness to please. Unlike the Pyrenees, they are not independent and thrive on human companionship, making them a better fit for families who want a more interactive, people-oriented dog. Their distinct love for water and playful demeanor add another layer of charm to this Pyrenean doppelgänger.