Re: [PyrNet-L] Health: Ruptured cruciate ligament, update on Max

[JGentzel@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/25/98 12:06:32 PM Eastern Standard Time,
sandybear@intercity.dk writes:

<< Well blaireau is the french word for badger, and it really means badger
 coloured markings, a combination of grey and brown/tan. But here in Denmark
 all pyrenees that are not completely white, are registered with the kennel
 club as blaireau, so we have a tendency to call all marked pyrenees for
 blaireaus no matter what colour markings they have. Max have blaireau
 markings on his back and his ears but more yellow marking in the face. >>

My understanding of the term is consistent with yours but goes a little
further.  The color is white at the base of each hair i.e. it is only colored
at its distal portion.  That's one of the qualities that gives it the
"grizzled" look.  Its one of the things that distinguishes the Pyr from the
Saint Bernard or even the Pyrenean Mastiff.  It is believed that hair that
carries color all the way to the skin might indicate breeding mixed with other
than Pyr.  Yes, I consider all colors as Blaireau as well. 

Joe