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BERGER PICARD

Breed Group: Herding

For full breed standards, visit American Kennel Club

Average height: 53 - 66 cms (21 - 26 in)

Average Weight: 23 - 32 kgs (50 - 70 lbs)

Coat Length: Shaggy, wiry coat

Life Span: 12 - 14 years

Colors: Fawn, brindle

HISTORY

The Berger Picard is one of the oldest herding breeds native to France, believed to have existed since at least the 9th century. Its name comes from the Picardy region of northern France, where it worked as a herding dog, guarding and moving flocks of sheep. The Berger Picard's rugged appearance, with its wiry coat and expressive face, speaks to its long history as a hardworking and resilient breed.

During both World Wars, the breed's population dwindled significantly as much of its native region became battlegrounds. Fortunately, dedicated breeders helped to bring the Berger Picard back from the brink of extinction, preserving its valuable herding instincts and rustic appearance. Though not as widely known outside of France, the breed has gained recognition for its versatility, intelligence, and loyal nature. Much like a reliable and hard-working companion, the Berger Picard remains true to its herding roots while adapting well to modern family life.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self. 

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR BERGER PICARD

  • Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them wonderful family companions

  •  They are highly intelligent, making training enjoyable and rewarding

  •  With their rustic, weather-resistant coat, they are hardy and versatile, perfect for outdoor activities

  •  They have a natural herding instinct, making them both playful and diligent

  •  Berger Picards form deep bonds with their families and thrive on human companionship

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

  • Their independent thinking and herding instincts mean they can be assertive, requiring clear, consistent and positive training

  •  They may become wary or aloof with strangers without proper socialization

  •  Their energy levels are high, and they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay content

  •  Their shaggy coat, while low-maintenance, may need occasional grooming to keep it tidy and free from mats.

YOUR BERGER PICARD PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

Berger Picard puppies are full of curiosity and energy. They are quick to explore their surroundings, often showing off their natural herding instincts in play. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded adults, as they can be naturally cautious around new people or environments. Positive reinforcement training, along with engaging games that challenge their mind and body, will help guide their intelligent and spirited nature. A Berger Picard puppy is sure to bring joy and energy to any home, blending a sense of adventure with their loyal disposition.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

  • Socializing them early to ensure they are comfortable around new people and situations

  •  Developing a consistent exercise routine to meet their high energy needs

  •  Ensuring proper training methods that account for their natural independence and herding instincts

  •  Managing potential wariness around strangers or unfamiliar animals with positive reinforcement

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

The key to a strong relationship with your Berger Picard is to balance their need for both independence and companionship. Providing them with plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation will keep them happy and engaged. Regular, structured training that is clear, consistent and positive will help them respect boundaries while allowing their intelligence to shine. Building a bond with your Berger Picard requires consistency and understanding, as they thrive on routine and enjoy spending time with their family. With patience and dedication, your Berger Picard will become a loyal and loving companion.

UPBRINGING

Raising a Berger Picard requires plenty of attention to both their physical and mental needs. Early socialization is key, particularly to help them become confident and well-adjusted around strangers and new environments. They enjoy mental challenges and need consistent, positive training to develop their best traits. Regular exercise is essential, as they have high energy levels and enjoy activities that engage both their body and mind. Providing them with opportunities to herd or participate in agility activities will help channel their natural instincts productively. Grooming their shaggy coat should be part of the routine to keep it tidy and healthy.

 

LIFESTYLE

The Berger Picard thrives in an active household where they have plenty of opportunities to exercise and interact with their family. They are best suited for homes with ample outdoor space, as they enjoy activities that allow them to run and explore. Long walks, hikes, and agility training are ideal ways to meet their physical and mental needs. While they can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise, they excel in homes where they have space to roam. Berger Picards are loyal and loving companions, but they do best with owners who can dedicate time to training and engaging them both mentally and physically.

 

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

Berger Picards excel in activities that tap into their natural herding instincts. Agility training, herding trials, and tracking exercises are all excellent outlets for their energy and intelligence. They also enjoy interactive games like fetch or hide-and-seek, where they can use both their body and mind. Given their background as working dogs, they love participating in tasks that have a purpose, such as herding or retrieving. Whether running, playing, or problem-solving, Berger Picards thrive on activities that challenge both their physical and mental abilities.

 

EDUCATION

Training your Berger Picard should focus on positive reinforcement and mental engagement. They respond well to structured, consistent training that rewards their natural intelligence and desire to work. Early training is key, as it helps establish boundaries and fosters a strong bond with their handler. Berger Picards are quick learners, but they also have an independent streak, so keeping training sessions varied and fun is important to prevent them from becoming bored. Incorporating problem-solving tasks, agility courses, or herding games will engage their minds and allow them to use their natural instincts in a productive way. Patience and consistency are crucial, as they thrive in environments where clear communication and positive feedback are prioritized.