While most people think of the Great Pyrenees as a pure white dog, the breed standard allows for up to a third of the coat be colored. Any color is accepted as long as it is within the allowed amount. Badger or blaireau coloring—a mixture of white, gray, brown, and black hairs—are the most common. Colored markings usually appear around the face and ears, as well as throughout the body. These markings may disappear as puppies grow, and may also reappear in adulthood.
While most dogs only have one set of dewclaws— or extra toes—the breed standard for Great Pyrenees requires double dewclaws. The Pyr's double dewclaws were useful in navigating the tough terrain of the Pyrenees mountains while guarding the flock. They are for balance and grip while running, climbing, and turning. While it is possible for Pyr puppies to be born with a single set, the absence of double dewclaws is considered a fault in the ring.
Shaving a Great Pyrenees—or any other double-coated breed—is not recommended. If they have access to fresh, cool water, air conditioning, and shade, they're not as hot as you think they are. Their double coat acts as insulation against the sun, and if you shave it they are less protected from heat and sunburn. Shaving the coat may also change the texture as it grows back, further removing the protection the coat is meant to provide. Hot weather can be battled with a kiddie pool full of water—but keep the clippers away from that gorgeous coat.