Traits and Characteristics of Berger Picard Breed

The Picardy sheepdog dog breed, also called the Berger Picard is native to the ancient region located in northeastern France, Picardy precisely from which it takes its name.

However, it is thought that this breed is much older, it is speculated that it was brought to Europe by the Celts, centuries ago. This breed during World War II risked extinction and to this day is almost completely unknown outside France, but specimens are also found in the Benelux and northern Alemagna.

It was used as a herding dog for flocks of sheep, where its characteristics were greatly appreciated. Today this dog is mainly a companion and guard dog; it is also used as support by civil defense.

The first standard of this breed was drawn up only in 1925, when it was officially recognized.

Character of the Berger Picard dog breed

The Berger Picard is a balanced and adaptable dog, full of energy and very athletic. It is a rustic dog, very firm, but attached to its owner, who, however, must be experienced and know how to deal with a very fiery dog, somewhat stubborn and even dominant if left to his own devices. So training is essential for this breed and it needs firm education and great socialization from puppyhood, because otherwise it does not get along very well with other animals especially of the same sex.

They say of this dog that it is gruff as a temperament, a bit brusque and severe in dealing with others, but if it has had a proper education it is very loyal even if it is not prodigal of expansions.

It adapts to any situation, is very sporty and full of energy, so it is not the classic apartment dog, but it must have some place where it can be several hours a day outdoors. He can live outside, but in winter he can't stand the weather, while in summer he can handle high hot temperatures.

However he likes to live in families and has a lot of patience especially with children, He is also an excellent guard dog and his instincts lead him to stay in his family environment and protect its members especially children. With strangers he can be aggressive, he is not afraid of anything and is feisty. He is very fond of being in the water.

Appearance of the Berger Picard dog breed

The Berger Picard is a medium to large dog, the height at withers for a male is on average 60 to 65 centimeters with a weight ranging from 20 to 26 kilograms, the female a little less although she is usually longer than the males.

The build is solid, very muscular and well built without being heavy. In fact, it always remains very elegant, whether stationary or on the move. Its expression is lively and alert and is made characteristic by its griffon-like appearance. The limbs are solid with obvious bone, the tail is very long and curved at the tip; in action it is carried higher without ever being curved on the back.

The head is well proportioned with the rest of the body; the muzzle, not too long, has whiskers and a stubble. The eyes are medium-sized, usually dark. The ears are medium, wide at the base and carried straight with slightly rounded tips. The truffle is black.

The fur of the coat is fairly long, and is neither fringed nor flat; it is about 5 to 6 inches long and is weather resistant as it also possesses a dense undercoat. Fur colors can have different shades ranging from black to gray through ochre. It can also be fawn, tawny carbonate, and tiger fawn. Some specimens are a mix of all these shades.

Health and care of the Berger Picard dog breed

The Berger Picard is a very robust dog with no particular breed-specific health problems. Hip dysplasia has minimal incidence on the breed, thanks to the excellent work done by breeders. As with all breeds of the same size and build, attention must be paid to stomach twisting.

For feeding it is necessary that it should always be controlled, as the Berger Picard shepherd dog is very greedy, so a diet that must be moderate and not at its leisure.

As for coat care, this dog needs to be brushed regularly to keep the undercoat alive and prevent knots and tangles that can be very annoying and even painful. It does not lose a lot of fur even during shedding.