# Berger Picard

Also known as: Picardy Shepherd, Picardy Sheepdog, Picard
- **Group:** Herding (FCI group 1)
- **Size:** Large
- **Origin:** France
- **Height:** 55–65 cm
- **Weight:** 23–32 kg
- **Life expectancy:** 12–14 years
- **Temperament:** Lively, Intelligent, Easygoing, Reserved with Strangers, Humorous
- **FCI standard:** No. 176

The Berger Picard is a rustic, tousle-coated French herding dog with upright ears and a famous smile. It is a rare, mellow but energetic and funny companion that nearly vanished after two world wars.

## Overview

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized herding dog from Picardy in northern France. Its shaggy, harsh coat and erect ears give it a scruffy yet elegant look.

It is a rare breed, still used as a sheep and cattle herder in its homeland. At home it is a loyal, humorous companion that wants to be close to its people.

## History

The breed is thought to be very old, possibly brought to northern France by the Franks, and is related to other European herding dogs. A genetic study found that a widespread herding dog of the time gave rise to the Berger Picard, the German Shepherd and several Italian herding breeds.

It appeared at the first French dog show in 1863 but never became a show favourite. Trench warfare in the Somme and the two world wars almost wiped it out. The FCI accepted it in 1955, and the American Kennel Club fully recognised it in 2015.

## Appearance

A well-muscled dog slightly longer than tall, with naturally erect, wide-based ears and thick eyebrows that do not hide the dark, frank eyes. The tail reaches the hock and carries a slight J-curve at the tip.

The weather-proof coat is crisp and harsh to the touch, not very long, with little undercoat.

## Temperament

Picards are lively, intelligent and sensitive, and they respond quickly to training. They are easygoing at home but can be reserved with strangers, so plenty of socialisation in the first two years matters. They are alert without being excessive barkers, and they need human company. Some are notoriously picky eaters.

## Care and exercise

This is a hard-working herding dog that enjoys agility, tracking, obedience, herding and other dog sports. Daily exercise and mental tasks are needed.

The rough coat is fairly easy to look after, with regular brushing and occasional tidying. Positive, consistent training and early socialisation help a Picard become a well-mannered companion.

## Health

Berger Picards are a relatively healthy breed. Known conditions include hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy, so breeders should certify hips and eyes. Life expectancy is about 12 to 14 years.

## Ratings (1 to 5)

- Energy: 4
- Exercise needs: 4
- Grooming: 2
- Shedding: 2
- Trainability: 4
- Barking: 2
- Good with children: 4
- Good with other dogs: 3

Page: https://techtools.cz/tools/dog-atlas/berger-picard
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berger_Picard · https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q37635
Photo: Cufleadh (CC BY-SA 3.0), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Picard_Delice_Stacked.jpg
Profile written by an AI model from the sources above.