BERGER PICARD

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

The Berger Picard was brought to the Picardie region of France by the Celts around 800 AD. It is considered to be the oldest French sheepdog and its ancestors can be found on ancient tapestries and wood engravings. Some experts think that it is related to the Beauceron and the Briard while others believe that it came from the same ancestors the Dutch and Belgian Shepherds came from. This breed faced difficulties after both the world wars and they were on the verge of extinction. After the Second World War, efforts were made to restore the breed. Although it is still a rare breed, the numbers have risen and it is nowhere close to extinction. The United Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club recognized them in 1994 and 2016 respectively.

Temperament & Personality

The dog has protective instincts and remains alert making it a good watchdog. For new dog owners, it is a good choice since it is intelligent, loyal and playful. It is also an energetic and fun-loving dog but may get stubborn at times and bark at people. Berger Picards need owners who are balanced and calm because it hates harsh tones and loneliness. This is not an aggressive breed but will become laid back if their owner is not firm and doesn’t act like their leader. It behaves reservedly around strangers, so socialization is necessary.

Exercise

Daily walks are essential for Berger Picards as they are an active breed. A yard with proper fencing is required because this dog doesn’t suit an apartment life. Walking, running, swimming and hiking should be included in the dog’s routine. It tends to be calm but enjoys playing and running without a leash in an open area so other than a yard, access to a dog park would be helpful.

Grooming

Berger Picards are moderate shedders, so there will be loose hair strands around. Brushing their coat twice a week will maintain the coat of the dog. During the spring and autumn seasons, it will shed more, so special care is required. Avoid frequent baths and do it only when the dog is very dirty. Trim its nails when they are too long, besides eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned.

Health Problems

The Picard is considered a healthy breed with eye problems and hip dysplasia the only common problems.

Training

This breed is easy to train, provided the owner is firm and acts as the pack leader. These dogs are sensitive to harsh tones and punishments so positive methods of training should be used. Early socialization is vital so that the dog can interact with different people.

Feeding

These dogs need 2½ to 3 cups of dry dog food daily, split into two meals. The amount of food the Picard needs depends on its size, age, and metabolism.