The Great Pyrenees comes from the Kuvasz and the Maremmano-Abruzzese. This dog is native from France and was used as a guard dog for sheep and cattle. Back in 1800 B.C., a dog similar to the Great Pyrenees had been discovered in Europe.
The breed probably first came from Asia or Siberia, but when established in Europe, it stayed in the mountainous regions until the middle ages. The dog became a noble guard dog as it gained popularity. In the 17th century, every French noble wanted a Great Pyrenees.
It was used to protect owners from bears and wolves. Later on, this breed was used for rescue operations from avalanches, as a sled dog, as a pack dog, as a cart-puller and as a guardian. It may have been used as a war dog in ancient time when it was less gentle. It was officially recognized by the AKC in 1933.