Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Berger Picard, also known as the Picardy Shepherd, is a French herding dog breed. This breed has been used for centuries in France to herd livestock, particularly sheep. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a rough, wiry coat and expressive, alert eyes. The Berger Picard was recognized by the Fédération Cynalogique Internationale (FCI) in 1996 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015. Despite their historical working role, they are now also becoming more popular as family companions and show dogs.
Temperament
The Berger Picard is an intelligent, affectionate, and loyal breed. They are typically friendly and social dogs that enjoy being with their families, including children. They are known to be protective without being overly aggressive, making them excellent watchdogs. While they can be reserved with strangers, they are generally not aggressive. They are confident, alert, and enjoy attention from their owners. However, they may be a bit independent, and they often require early training and socialization to develop into well-rounded companions.
Activity Level
The Berger Picard is an energetic breed that thrives on physical and mental activity. Being a herding breed, they are accustomed to working for extended hours, so they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy activities such as running, hiking, and agility exercises. It’s important to provide them with daily mental stimulation in addition to physical activity, as they can become bored and destructive without enough to do. They are ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.
Coat Care
The Berger Picard has a rough, wiry coat that is relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds. While their coat doesn’t require frequent grooming, it does need to be brushed 2-3 times a week to prevent mats and tangles. The coat sheds moderately, so regular brushing helps to manage shedding. The breed’s coat is designed to protect them in harsh weather conditions, so it should not be shaved or trimmed. Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils.
Training
The Berger Picard is an intelligent and trainable breed but can also be independent and strong-willed. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and need an owner who can provide consistent, firm, and patient guidance. Early socialization is important to help them become well-adjusted and confident in different situations. While they are eager to please, they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak, so training should be done with a calm, patient approach. They excel in activities such as obedience, agility, and herding trials.
Size and Weight
The Berger Picard is a medium-sized breed. They typically weigh between 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg) and stand about 21-25 inches (53-64 cm) tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and well-balanced frame that allows them to work efficiently in herding and other tasks. Despite their size, they are agile and athletic, with a keen sense of awareness that makes them excellent workers.
Special Traits of the Breed
The Berger Picard is a breed with a strong herding instinct. They are also known for their distinctive appearance, with their triangular ears, rough coat, and alert, expressive eyes. The breed’s intelligent and alert nature makes them excellent working dogs, and they often excel in agility and obedience competitions. They are also known for their affectionate nature and will form a strong bond with their families. While they are friendly and social, they can be reserved with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
Inherited Diseases
As with all breeds, the Berger Picard can be prone to certain hereditary health conditions, including:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common joint problem where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A genetic eye disease that causes vision loss over time.
- Elbow Dysplasia: A developmental disorder of the elbow joint that can cause lameness.
- Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like weight gain and lethargy. Routine veterinary care, including screening for these conditions, is important to ensure the dog remains healthy.
Diet
The Berger Picard should be fed a well-balanced diet to support their active lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight. Look for dog food that provides high-quality protein and fat to support muscle mass and energy levels. As an active breed, they may have higher calorie needs, but portion control is essential to prevent obesity. Additionally, the breed may benefit from food with joint support, especially if they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Always consult with a veterinarian to ensure they are receiving the right amount of food for their age, size, and activity level.
Dog Type
The Berger Picard is a herding dog breed that was originally bred to work with livestock. Their natural instincts make them excellent working dogs in agricultural and rural settings. In modern times, they have found a place in homes as active family pets, show dogs, and companions for those who lead an active lifestyle. They are adaptable and thrive in environments where they can get sufficient physical and mental stimulation. While they are loyal and affectionate, they also have an independent streak that requires experienced ownership to properly manage.
5 Facts About the Berger Picard
- The Berger Picard is an ancient French breed that was originally used for herding sheep and cattle.
- They are known for their rough, wiry coat and alert, expressive eyes.
- Berger Picards are highly intelligent and thrive on training and mental stimulation.
- The breed is known for being protective, making them great watchdogs, but they are not aggressive.
- Berger Picards are often described as affectionate and playful, forming strong bonds with their families.
