Patou
Breed Description

The Patou is known by several names across different countries and regions, reflecting its widespread appreciation and varied cultural contexts. In France, where the breed originates, it is officially recognized as the Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées by the Société Centrale Canine, though most French shepherds and dog enthusiasts simply call it the Patou, a traditional regional name that has been used for centuries in the Pyrenees.

Outside of France, the breed is most commonly known as the Great Pyrenees, particularly in the United States, Canada, and English-speaking countries. This name was adopted when the breed was first introduced to North America in the 1930s and reflects the breed's mountain origins. The American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club both recognize the breed under this name, and it has become the standard designation in North American breeding circles and dog shows.

In the United Kingdom and other English-speaking regions, the breed is often called the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, which is the official name used by The Kennel Club. This name emphasizes both the geographical origin and the breed's mountain-dwelling heritage. International organizations, including the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), recognize the breed as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, maintaining consistency with European naming conventions.

Regional variations also exist within France itself, where the breed may be referred to as the Chien des Pyrénées or simply Pyrénéen in some areas. Historical documents sometimes reference these dogs as Patous des Pyrénées or Chiens de Berger des Pyrénées, emphasizing their shepherding function. These traditional names reflect the breed's deep cultural integration into French pastoral life and highlight the important role these dogs have played in protecting flocks throughout the mountainous regions of southwestern France.

The Patou represents the epitome of canine elegance combined with raw power and unwavering devotion. This magnificent breed embodies centuries of careful breeding for both beauty and function, creating a dog that commands respect through its imposing presence while inspiring affection through its gentle nature. Standing among the largest of all dog breeds, the Patou carries itself with a distinctive regal bearing that immediately communicates both confidence and calm composure.

The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly its luxurious coat, which serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. The double coat consists of a dense, fine undercoat that provides insulation against harsh mountain weather, topped by a longer, coarser outer coat that repels moisture and debris. This remarkable coat system allows the Patou to work comfortably in extreme conditions while maintaining the pristine white appearance that has made the breed so visually distinctive. The outer coat typically measures between two to three inches in length, creating the breed's characteristic flowing appearance.

Physically, the Patou presents a perfectly balanced combination of strength and grace. Their broad chest houses powerful lungs capable of sustaining long periods of activity at high altitude, while their muscular hindquarters provide the drive necessary for traversing steep mountain terrain. The breed's head is proportionate to its body size, featuring a noble expression enhanced by dark, intelligent eyes that seem to assess every situation with calm wisdom. Their ears are medium-sized and triangular, hanging close to the head and adding to their gentle appearance.

The Patou's movement is particularly noteworthy, displaying a fluid grace that belies their substantial size. Their gait is economical and ground-covering, designed for efficiency rather than speed. This breed was developed to patrol large territories over extended periods, and their movement reflects this heritage through steady, purposeful strides that can be maintained for hours without fatigue. When alert or excited, they carry their plumed tail high, creating an elegant silhouette that has captivated dog enthusiasts for generations.

What truly sets the Patou apart from other large breeds is their remarkable temperament, which perfectly balances independence with loyalty, gentleness with protective instinct. These dogs possess an almost supernatural ability to assess situations and respond appropriately, demonstrating the intelligence and judgment that made them invaluable to French shepherds. Their calm demeanor in normal circumstances can instantly transform into alert vigilance when their protective instincts are triggered, yet they rarely overreact or show unnecessary aggression.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC recognizes the Patou as the Great Pyrenees in the Working Group. The standard describes a dog conveying elegance and unsurpassed beauty combined with great overall size and majesty. The ideal male stands 27-32 inches at the withers, females 25-29 inches. Weight should be proportionate to size and structure. The coat must be white or principally white with markings of badger, gray, or varying shades of tan. Double dewclaws on rear feet are required. The standard emphasizes character and temperament as of utmost importance, describing the breed as confident, gentle, and affectionate, while territorial and protective when necessary. The general demeanor should be one of quiet composure, both patient and tolerant, though strong-willed, independent, and somewhat reserved.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Under FCI Standard No. 137, the Patou is classified as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog in Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer - Mollossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs), Section 2.2 (Mollossoid, Mountain type). The standard describes a dog of great size and impressive appearance, harmoniously built despite its size. Males should measure 70-80 cm (27.5-31.5 inches), females 65-75 cm (25.5-29.5 inches). The coat is long, fairly thick, and supple, with longer hair around the neck forming a mane, especially in males. Colors include pure white or white with patches of pale yellow, wolf-gray, or pale orange mainly on the ears. The standard requires double dewclaws on hind legs and describes movement as powerful and free, never ponderous, with extended rather than fast pace showing suppleness and elegance.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the breed as the Great Pyrenees in the Guardian Dog Group, emphasizing both flock guarding and property protection functions. The standard describes a breed of immense size, great majesty, keen intelligence, and unsurpassed beauty with elegant bearing. Size requirements match the AKC standard with males 27-32 inches and females 25-29 inches. The UKC standard particularly emphasizes the breed's historical independence and sense of authority, noting their propensity for independence developed through centuries of working alone protecting flocks. Disqualifications include lack of double dewclaws on rear legs, nose not completely black, and any color other than specified white with markings. The UKC standard stresses that the breed should demonstrate both strength and agility.

Other Organizations

The Société Centrale Canine (French Kennel Club) maintains the original breed standard as the Chien de Montagne des Pyrénées, emphasizing the breed's French heritage and traditional function. The Kennel Club (UK) recognizes the breed as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog in the Pastoral Group with similar size and appearance requirements but with specific emphasis on the breed's gentle nature and suitability as a companion while maintaining working ability. Various other national kennel clubs worldwide recognize the breed under different names but maintain similar standards emphasizing the large size, white coat with limited markings, double rear dewclaws, and the characteristic temperament combining independence with gentleness. Canadian Kennel Club standards align closely with AKC requirements, while Australian and New Zealand standards follow FCI guidelines with regional adaptations for climate considerations.

The history of the Patou stretches back through millennia, intertwining with the very fabric of French pastoral culture and the development of livestock guardian breeds across Europe. Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancestors of modern Patou dogs arrived in the Pyrenees region over a thousand years ago, possibly brought by nomadic peoples migrating from Central Asia or the Caucasus mountains. These early guardian dogs found the perfect environment in the rugged Pyrenees Mountains, where their protective instincts and weather-resistant coats allowed them to thrive in one of Europe's most challenging mountain environments.

During the medieval period, the Patou became deeply integrated into the pastoral economy of the Pyrenees region. French shepherds, known as bergers, relied entirely on these dogs to protect their flocks from the numerous predators that inhabited the mountains, including wolves, bears, and lynx. The breed's reputation for courage and reliability spread throughout the region, with different valleys developing slightly varying lines of dogs adapted to their specific environmental conditions and predator pressures. This natural selection process, combined with careful breeding by practical shepherds, created the foundation of the modern breed.

The Patou's transition from purely working dog to noble companion began in the 17th century when these magnificent dogs caught the attention of the French aristocracy. In 1675, the Dauphin Louis XIV designated the breed as the "Royal Dog of France," a title that elevated the Patou's status throughout European high society. This royal endorsement led to increased demand for the breed among French nobility, who valued the dogs both for their impressive appearance and their effectiveness as estate guardians. The court of Versailles became home to numerous Patou, and their presence there helped establish the breed's reputation for elegance and refinement.

Queen Victoria of England also owned Patou dogs during the Victorian era, further cementing the breed's international reputation. However, this noble popularity nearly proved detrimental to the breed's working heritage, as some breeders began emphasizing appearance over function. Fortunately, the remote mountain regions of the Pyrenees continued to maintain working lines, ensuring that the breed's essential characteristics remained intact even as show dogs became more refined.

The 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant challenges to the Patou's survival. The systematic extermination of wolves from the Pyrenees reduced the need for livestock guardian dogs, leading to a dramatic decline in breeding programs. By the 1900s, the breed was on the verge of extinction, with only a few dedicated shepherds and enthusiasts maintaining small populations of working dogs. The situation became critical following World War I, when social and economic changes further reduced demand for traditional pastoral practices.

The breed's salvation came through the efforts of Bernard Sénac-Lagrange, a French aristocrat and dog enthusiast who recognized the cultural and genetic value of the Patou. In 1923, he founded the Réunion des Amateurs de Chiens Pyrénées and established the first official breed standard with the Société Centrale Canine. Sénac-Lagrange traveled extensively throughout the Pyrenees, collecting the finest remaining specimens and creating a breeding program designed to preserve the breed's essential characteristics while ensuring genetic diversity.

The breed's international expansion began in earnest during the 1930s when several Patou were exported to North America. These dogs formed the foundation of breeding programs in the United States and Canada, where they were initially known as Great Pyrenees. American breeders focused on developing the breed as both a working dog and a companion, leading to slight divergences from European lines. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1933, helping to establish it firmly in North American dog culture.

World War II presented another significant challenge to the breed's survival, as food shortages and social upheaval made maintaining large dogs extremely difficult. However, dedicated breeders in both Europe and North America preserved breeding lines through these difficult years, ensuring the breed's continuation into the post-war era. The 1950s and 1960s saw renewed interest in the Patou as both a working dog and family companion, leading to steady population growth and international distribution.

Modern times have brought both opportunities and challenges for the Patou breed. The return of wolves to parts of the French Alps and Pyrenees has renewed interest in the breed's traditional working function, with French government programs supporting the use of Patou for livestock protection in areas where wolf predation occurs. Simultaneously, the breed has gained popularity as a family companion in rural and suburban areas, though this dual role sometimes creates tension between working and show lines. Contemporary breeding programs strive to maintain the breed's essential working characteristics while adapting to modern lifestyle requirements, ensuring that the Patou continues to embody the perfect balance of power, beauty, and gentle devotion that has defined the breed for over a millennium.

The Patou was developed for the specific purpose of livestock protection in the challenging terrain and climate of the Pyrenees Mountains. Unlike herding dogs that move and direct animals, the Patou functions as a guardian that lives with the flock, establishing strong protective bonds while maintaining constant vigilance against predators. This fundamental role shaped every aspect of the breed's physical and behavioral characteristics, creating a dog perfectly adapted for independent decision-making and protective action in remote mountain environments.

Traditional Patou work begins early in the puppy's life, typically around eight to twelve weeks of age when young dogs are introduced to the livestock they will eventually protect. This early bonding period is crucial, as it establishes the emotional connection between dog and flock that forms the foundation of effective guardian behavior. Young Patou learn by observing adult dogs, absorbing complex behavioral patterns including territory marking, threat assessment, appropriate response protocols, and the subtle art of moving through flocks without causing disturbance or panic.

The breed's working methodology involves a sophisticated system of territory management and threat response that operates on multiple levels simultaneously. During daylight hours, Patou typically position themselves at elevated vantage points where they can survey their entire territory while remaining close enough to their charges to respond quickly to threats. They establish regular patrol routes that cover all areas where livestock might be vulnerable, marking these territories with scent and visual presence to deter potential predators from approaching.

Nighttime brings increased activity levels as most predators become active under cover of darkness. Patou demonstrate remarkable night vision and hearing abilities, allowing them to detect threats long before they pose immediate danger to the flock. Their response to potential threats follows a graduated escalation pattern designed to deter predators while minimizing actual confrontation. Initial responses include strategic positioning, alert postures, and low-level vocalizations. If threats persist, the dogs progress to more assertive barking, direct approaches, and ultimately physical confrontation if necessary.

Modern applications of Patou guardian instincts extend far beyond traditional sheep protection. Contemporary working dogs protect diverse livestock including goats, cattle, horses, poultry, and even exotic species in zoological settings. Their adaptability has proven remarkable, with successful programs protecting everything from alpaca herds to penguin colonies. The breed's intelligence allows them to adjust their protective behaviors based on the specific needs and vulnerabilities of different animal species.

In areas where wolf populations have returned, such as parts of the French Alps, Patou serve crucial roles in wildlife conservation programs. By providing effective livestock protection, these dogs enable coexistence between pastoral agriculture and protected predator populations. Government-sponsored programs in France provide Patou to farmers and shepherds in wolf habitat areas, demonstrating the breed's continued relevance in modern conservation efforts.

The breed's function as a family guardian translates naturally from their livestock protection heritage. Patou extend their protective instincts to include human family members, property, and other household pets. However, their approach to family protection maintains the same measured, intelligent response patterns developed through centuries of livestock work. They rarely show unnecessary aggression but provide an impressive deterrent through their size, deep bark, and confident presence.

Training working Patou requires understanding their natural instincts rather than imposing artificial behaviors. Successful programs focus on channeling existing protective drives while establishing clear boundaries about acceptable responses to various situations. Unlike companion dog training that emphasizes obedience to human commands, guardian dog development emphasizes decision-making skills and appropriate independent action while maintaining respect for human authority when necessary.

Climate and terrain adaptations represent another crucial aspect of Patou function. Their double coat system provides protection against both cold mountain winters and hot summer sun, while their large, well-padded feet offer excellent traction on rocky or icy surfaces. The breed's endurance capabilities allow them to maintain protective vigilance over large territories for extended periods, often patrolling several square miles of mountainous terrain without fatigue. This remarkable stamina, combined with their natural intelligence and independent nature, makes the Patou uniquely suited for the demanding role of livestock guardian in challenging environments where human supervision is minimal and environmental hazards are constant.

The behavioral profile of the Patou represents one of the most sophisticated examples of selective breeding for specific psychological traits in the canine world. These dogs exhibit a unique combination of independence and loyalty, gentleness and protective fierce courage, that allows them to function effectively both as working guardians and family companions. Their behavior patterns reflect generations of breeding for dogs capable of making critical decisions without human input while maintaining strong emotional bonds with their charges.

Independence stands as the most fundamental aspect of Patou behavior, manifesting in their tendency to assess situations carefully before responding and their preference for making autonomous decisions about appropriate actions. This independence can sometimes be mistaken for stubbornness or disobedience, but it actually represents a highly refined decision-making process honed through centuries of breeding for dogs that must work without constant human supervision. Patou evaluate multiple factors including environmental conditions, threat levels, and the well-being of their charges before determining appropriate responses to various situations.

The breed's protective behavior operates on a sophisticated system of graduated responses calibrated to match the perceived level of threat. In normal circumstances, Patou maintain what can best be described as "relaxed vigilance" - a state where they appear calm and peaceful while remaining constantly aware of their surroundings. Their protective instincts activate gradually, beginning with increased attention and alert postures, progressing through warning vocalizations, and potentially escalating to direct confrontation only when they determine that serious threats exist to their family or territory.

Social behavior within the breed varies significantly depending on their role and environment. Working Patou often develop complex relationships with other guardian dogs, establishing hierarchies based on experience, age, and personality rather than simple dominance patterns. They communicate through subtle body language, strategic positioning, and various vocalizations that serve specific functions in coordinating protective activities. Their social intelligence extends to understanding and respecting the social structures of the animals they protect, whether sheep, cattle, or human families.

The Patou's interaction with strangers reflects their heritage as dogs bred to distinguish between legitimate visitors and potential threats. They typically exhibit reserved but polite behavior toward unfamiliar people, maintaining a careful distance while assessing intentions and receiving cues from their human family members. This natural wariness should not be confused with aggression or excessive shyness; rather, it represents prudent caution that served their ancestors well in environments where distinguishing friend from foe could be a matter of life and death.

Nocturnal activity patterns remain strong in the breed, reflecting their adaptation to times when predators are most active. Many Patou become more alert and active during evening and nighttime hours, which can present challenges for suburban families unaccustomed to a dog's natural inclination to patrol and investigate nighttime sounds. Their excellent night vision and acute hearing make them exceptionally effective nighttime guardians, though this can result in barking that may disturb neighbors unaccustomed to working breed behaviors.

The breed's learning style emphasizes observation, pattern recognition, and independent problem-solving rather than repetitive training or immediate compliance with commands. Patou excel at remembering complex sequences of events, recognizing subtle changes in routine, and adapting their behavior based on past experiences. They demonstrate remarkable environmental intelligence, learning the normal patterns of their territory and immediately recognizing anything that deviates from established routines.

Stress responses in Patou often differ from those observed in more typical companion breeds. Rather than exhibiting obvious anxiety or destructive behaviors, stressed guardian dogs may become hypervigilant, demonstrate increased territorial behaviors, or show reluctance to engage in normal social activities. Understanding these subtle stress indicators is crucial for handlers, as traditional stress signals may not become apparent until the dog reaches significant distress levels.

The breed's relationship with territory is complex and multifaceted, extending beyond simple property boundaries to encompass an understanding of zones of responsibility and appropriate responses within different areas. Patou typically develop mental maps of their environment that include safe zones, potential threat corridors, and areas requiring special attention. Their territorial behavior is generally not possessive or aggressive in nature, but rather represents a systematic approach to environmental management designed to prevent problems before they develop into serious threats.

Play behavior in Patou tends to be more controlled and purposeful than in many other breeds, reflecting their serious nature and working heritage. While they certainly enjoy recreational activities, their play often incorporates elements of their guardian instincts, such as gentle herding games or investigative activities. They particularly enjoy activities that challenge their problem-solving abilities and allow them to use their natural talents in constructive ways, making them excellent candidates for activities like tracking, search and rescue work, and other pursuits that engage both their physical capabilities and intellectual abilities.

The integration of a Patou into family life requires understanding and accommodating their unique blend of independence and devotion, size and gentleness, protective instincts and companionable nature. These dogs form profound bonds with their human families, but express their affection in ways that may differ from more overtly demonstrative breeds. Their love manifests through quiet presence, watchful protection, and steady loyalty rather than exuberant displays of affection, creating relationships built on mutual respect and understanding.

With children, Patou display remarkable patience and gentleness, seeming to instinctively understand the vulnerability of young family members. They often assume protective roles toward children without being taught, positioning themselves where they can observe and protect while avoiding interference with normal childhood activities. However, their substantial size requires careful supervision during interactions with very young children, not due to any aggressive tendencies but simply because their physical presence can be overwhelming to small individuals. Many families report that their Patou seems to understand the difference between appropriate roughness for older children versus the gentle care required for toddlers.

The breed's relationship with family hierarchy requires clear, consistent leadership from confident, experienced dog owners. While they respect and love their human family members, Patou may challenge unclear or inconsistent direction, particularly from individuals they perceive as uncertain or insecure. This characteristic makes them unsuitable for passive owners or families unable to provide calm, assertive leadership. They respond best to clear expectations and consistent rules rather than harsh corrections or emotional responses to behavioral issues.

Daily routines with Patou benefit from structure that accommodates their natural activity patterns and provides sufficient mental and physical stimulation. These dogs thrive on predictable schedules that include regular feeding times, exercise periods, and opportunities for patrol behavior. Family members should expect some nighttime activity, including periodic alertness and occasional barking at perceived disturbances. Establishing appropriate boundaries about when and where such behavior is acceptable becomes crucial for maintaining harmony within both the family and the neighborhood.

The breed's space requirements within family settings are substantial and non-negotiable for their psychological and physical well-being. Patou need room to patrol, investigate, and establish territorial boundaries, making them poorly suited to apartment living or small urban lots. They thrive in rural or suburban environments with adequate fenced areas where they can exercise their natural guardian instincts without restriction. The ideal family setting includes secure outdoor space, preferably with varied terrain that provides mental stimulation and allows for natural behaviors.

Integration with other family pets requires careful management and understanding of the Patou's natural instincts. They often excel with animals they consider part of their protective responsibility, including cats, smaller dogs, and various livestock if the family maintains such animals. However, they may show dominance toward same-sex dogs of similar size and can be territorial toward animals they perceive as intruders or threats. Early socialization and gradual introduction of new pets are essential for successful multi-pet households.

The breed's interaction with visitors and strangers requires careful management and clear communication from family members about expected behavior. Patou naturally view unfamiliar people as potential threats and may not distinguish between welcome guests and actual intruders without proper guidance from their family. Successful families establish clear protocols for visitor arrival, including controlled introductions and obvious approval signals from family members. Some families find it helpful to designate specific areas for entertaining guests where the dog's access can be managed during initial meetings.

Exercise and activity requirements for family Patou differ significantly from those of more typical companion breeds. While they need regular physical activity, their exercise needs are more about mental stimulation and territory patrol than aerobic conditioning. Long walks, hiking excursions, and activities that allow them to investigate and patrol new environments provide better fulfillment than repetitive exercises like fetch or agility training. They particularly enjoy activities that engage their natural problem-solving abilities and allow them to work cooperatively with family members.

Training within the family context focuses on establishing boundaries and teaching appropriate responses rather than complex obedience routines. The breed responds well to positive reinforcement methods but requires patience and consistency rather than repetitive drilling. Family training sessions work best when they incorporate the dog's natural instincts and provide opportunities for decision-making rather than simple command-and-response exercises. Understanding that Patou may selectively follow commands they perceive as important while ignoring those they consider unnecessary helps families develop realistic expectations and effective training strategies.

Long-term family commitment to a Patou extends well beyond typical pet ownership to encompass providing for a dog whose protective behaviors may intensify with age and whose size and strength require consistent management throughout their lifetime. These dogs often become more selective about strangers as they mature while deepening their bonds with family members. Families must be prepared for the reality that their Patou may become increasingly devoted to home and family while becoming less social with outsiders, requiring ongoing management to maintain appropriate social behaviors while respecting the dog's natural protective instincts.

The Patou generally enjoys robust health when compared to many large breed dogs, benefiting from centuries of natural selection for hardy, working dogs capable of thriving in challenging mountain environments. Their genetic heritage includes selection for dogs that could work effectively in extreme weather conditions, traverse difficult terrain, and maintain their health with minimal human intervention. However, like all giant breeds, they are predisposed to certain health conditions that potential owners and breeders should understand and monitor throughout the dog's lifetime.

The breed's life expectancy typically ranges from 10-12 years, which is reasonable for dogs of their substantial size. Factors that influence longevity include genetics, diet, exercise levels, preventive healthcare, and environmental conditions. Working dogs that maintain active lifestyles often enjoy longer, healthier lives than sedentary individuals, though the physical demands of guardian work can also present risks from environmental hazards, predator encounters, and the stress of constant vigilance.

Genetic diversity within the breed has been maintained relatively well due to the practical requirements of working shepherds who selected breeding stock based on performance and health rather than appearance alone. This functional breeding approach has helped preserve overall breed health, though some genetic issues have become more apparent as the breed has gained popularity and undergone more systematic health screening. Modern breeding programs increasingly emphasize health testing and careful genetic management to maintain the breed's historical vigor while addressing emerging health concerns.

The breed's large size and rapid growth during puppyhood require careful attention to nutrition, exercise management, and developmental monitoring during the critical first two years of life. Improper nutrition or excessive exercise during growth phases can contribute to skeletal problems later in life. Proper puppy management includes controlled growth rates through appropriate feeding programs, moderate exercise that builds endurance without stressing developing joints, and regular veterinary monitoring of growth and development patterns.

Climate considerations significantly affect the breed's health and comfort. Their heavy double coat makes them poorly adapted to hot, humid climates without adequate cooling resources and climate control. Heat stress can be life-threatening in Patou, particularly during summer months or in southern climates where temperatures regularly exceed their comfort zone. Conversely, they thrive in cooler conditions where their natural coat provides excellent insulation, though they still require adequate shelter during extreme weather events.

Preventive healthcare for Patou should include regular veterinary examinations tailored to their size and lifestyle, appropriate vaccination protocols based on geographic location and exposure risk, and comprehensive parasite prevention programs. Working dogs may require modified healthcare approaches due to increased exposure to wildlife, environmental hazards, and weather extremes. Weight management becomes particularly important as these dogs age, as excess weight accelerates joint problems and reduces quality of life in large breed dogs.

Mental health considerations are often overlooked but prove equally important for this breed's overall well-being. Patou deprived of opportunities to express their natural behaviors may develop stress-related problems including obsessive behaviors, excessive vocalizations, or depression. Providing appropriate mental stimulation, opportunities for protective behavior, and meaningful activities contributes significantly to their psychological health and overall quality of life.

Nutritional requirements for Patou differ from those of more typical companion breeds due to their size, coat density, and potential activity levels. High-quality diets formulated for large breed dogs help support proper growth and development while maintaining optimal body condition throughout their lives. Working dogs may require higher caloric intake during periods of intense activity, while companion dogs need careful portion control to prevent obesity. Regular body condition monitoring and dietary adjustments based on age, activity level, and health status help maintain optimal nutrition throughout their lives.

If you're looking to adopt a Patou, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

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"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Patou waiting for their forever homes.