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Berger Picard
Also known as: Picardy Shepherd
Breed origin: Picardy, the region of northern France between Normandy and Paris
Original purpose: Herding.
AKC recognized: No
AKC group: Foundation Stock Service
Size:
Height: males 23½ to 25½ inches;
females 21½ to 23½ inches
Color: Gray, gray-black, gray with black highlights, gray-blue, gray-red, light fawn or dark, or a mixture of these shades.
Life span: 13 to 14 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Berger Picard is alert, lively, intelligent, sensitive, assertive, and has a well developed sense of humor. They respond quickly to obedience training and are usually laid back and mellow. However, they are known for having a stubborn streak and being reserved towards strangers. Berger Picards are energetic and hard working, and do best when given a job to do. They are loyal, sweet-tempered with children, and naturally protective, making them a good guardian. However, they are not excessive barkers. Berger Picards can be seen in three recent movies, "Are We Done Yet?", "Because of Winn Dixie," and "Daniel and the Superdogs," and are often mistaken for another canine actor, the Wirehaired Portuguese Podengo Medio, which is also a scruffy looking rare breed.
Good with children? Yes
Protective? Yes
OK in apartments? Possible but only if you can provide adequate exercise.
Intelligent? Yes
Energy/Activity Level: High
Good jogging partner? Excellent
Suitable canine sports/activities: agility, tracking, Schutzhund, flyball, disc, French Ring sport
Exercise requirement: Berger Picards are very athletic and make an excellent jogging companion. They require daily exercise or will otherwise become destructive out of boredom. They enjoy swimming, running, as well as long walks.
Grooming requirement: The Berger Picard is a low maintenance breed. The rough, tousled coat does not mat or require special care. Brushing should only be done once a month. Bathing is rarely done and the fur should never be trimmed except maybe around the ear edges. They are not profuse shedders and have no doggie odor.
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye diseases.
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Berger Picard Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
Berger Picard Club of America Rescue
DogBreedMatch
