Berger Picard

History buffs will be delighted to know that the Berger Picard is the oldest of the French Sheepdog breeds. They were introduced to northern France in the 9th century by the Franks. Their exact lineage isn’t known, although many think they are closely related to either the Briard and Beauceron breeds or the Dutch and Belgian Shepherds. 

During the World Wars, their region was decimated and the farm breed suffered, almost to extinction. They are still considered rare dogs, with very few of them in existence around the world. 

Beneath the adorably scruffy look, there is a clever mind and robust, athletic body. The ideal owner will cater to the Berger Picard’s brightness and high exercise needs. Ideally, an owner would have experience with working breeds, particularly pastoral types, and will have the patience to train them well. The reward for an owner is a capable, enthusiastic “Picardy.”

Lace up your walking shoes because Berger Picards love to walk, run, and train outside, no matter the weather. (They do not do well in extreme heat.) They also are brainiacs and adore puzzle solving and games. When you combine physical exercise and mental stimulation, they will be super happy dogs.

While Picardy Sheepdogs don’t need exceptionally large homes, they do need large, secured yards. Variety is the spice of the Picardy’s life, so they’ll love varied and interesting walking routes in addition to free running in a fenced-in backyard.

One of the pros of having a Berger Picard is that grooming needs are low. A brush once or twice a week works to prevent matting.

Get the other half of a BFF necklace ready—a Berger Picard is ready to work with you as a team for life, creating a strong bond and becoming a very loyal companion. Positive reinforcement works exceptionally well, and anything other than that can result in an obstinate dog. They are capable of high levels of obedience and love dog spots, competitions, agility courses, and the like, but they also do well snuggled up next to their owners so long as they’ve had enough exercise and mental stimulation.

If you or your family are extremely active, it’ll make this herding dog happy. Berger Picard dogs love dog sports and long walks every day. Families with no children or older children who want to help train or exercise the dog are preferable.

The cost of a Berger Picard from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.