Berger Picard Is Only For Active Owners

Table of Contents

Where Do Berger Picards Come From?

The Berger Picard’s (usually simply Picard) name comes from [wiki]Picardy[/wiki], a region in northwest France. The Berger Picard is also known as the Picardy Shepherd. Picardy is an agricultural region and has plentiful rich pastureland. The breed was used to guard and herd livestock. The farmers and cattlemen of the area take pride in their home-grown sheepdog.

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized dog weighing 50 to 70 pounds, 18 to 32 kilograms, or 3.5 to 5 stones. It depends on which scale you have in your bathroom. (Does anyone have a scale that weighs in stones?) They are very active dogs that enjoy various sports, games, and outdoor fun.

Picard derives its name from “pic” or “pike,” which was a long thrusting spear used in battle up until the [wiki]medieval[/wiki] period. The farmers and ranchers didn’t always tend to their sheep and ranches but were also ready to fight to protect themselves.

These dogs nearly became extinct after both the World Wars and are still a rare breed. They rank 144 of 197 in AKC popularly. There are only about 400 Berger Picards in the United States, so you are unlikely to see one on your street.

The Berger Picard regained popularity when they starred in the 2005 movie “Because of Winn Dixie.” Don’t you love dog movies? There should be a law that every movie must have a dog!

What Does Berger Picard Look Like?

Berger Picard dogs are long-legged herding dogs with strong bones and sturdy build. They have long, 4 to 5-inch ears that stand erect. Their coats are fawn or brindle with wavy hair. They shed moderately, so they are not a hypoallergenic breed.

Their eyebrows are long and thick but do not shield their eyes. They are known for their engaging smile and sense of humor.

Temperament

A lively, intellectual nature and a sensitive and aggressive demeanor that responds rapidly to obedience training are all characteristics of the Berger Picard. Most Picards are chill and down back, yet they have a reputation for being reticent around strangers and having a stubborn side.

Picards are enthusiastic, hard-working, vigilant, devoted, and patient with kids. When they have a job to do, they are happiest. They are also defensive by nature, which makes them suitable as guard dogs. They do not, however, bark excessively.

Picards participate in agility, tracking, obedience, Schutzhund, flyball, lure coursing, French ring sport, and herding competitions. Non-competitive herding tests can be used to assess a dog’s trainability and herding instincts. Basic herding tendencies in Berger Picards can be educated to compete in herding trials.

Are Picards Good Family Dogs?

Early socialization and positive training are necessary to cope with their stubborn personalities. Without proper exercise, they may become bored and exhibit destructive behavior. Even though they are active dogs, they do well in the city if they get enough exercise. Long romps in the park will do the trick. They are loyal dogs and may suffer separation anxiety if left alone, even for short periods.

They are clean animals and only need an occasional bath. Their thick double coat will require frequent brushing during shedding season. During the rest of the year, a weekly brushing will do.

A Berger Picard puppy will cost between $2,000 to $2,500 from a breeder. If you are looking for a rescue dog, you might start with the Berger Picard Club of America Rehome.

Are Berger Picard Healthy Dogs?

They are generally healthy dogs with some genetic medical conditions. Hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are known to occur in the breed.

Berger’s life expectancy ranges between 12 to 13 years.