Origin
France
Lifespan
12–13 years
Weight
23–32 kg
Height
55–66 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Fawn · Brindle · Gray
Berger Picard
About This Breed
The Berger Picard is a rustic French herding breed nearly driven to extinction by the World Wars. With their scruffy, tousled appearance and endearing expression, they are loyal, good-natured dogs with strong herding instincts.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Berger Picard
Origin
| Origin | France |
| Group | Herding |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 23–32 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–13 years |
| Height | 55–66 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Fawn · Brindle · Gray |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Loyal · Good-natured · Alert · Observant |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Berger Picard (pronounced bare-ZHAY pee-CARR) is a French herding dog. (Berger is French for shepherd and Picard refers to the Picardy region of France.) You may hear them referred to simply as Picards or as Picardy Shepherds. Bred to herd sheep and cattle, Berger Picard dogs are built for the job. Their harsh, weatherproof fur repels dirt and needs little upkeep. Their long legs, muscular body, and vast energy help them meet the physical demands of their job. And their high level of intelligence and sensitivity are key qualities for working with both people and farm animals.
Care Guide
Berger Picards were bred for work, and they don’t lose their instincts as companion animals. Here’s what this means for prospective families: Despite their rustic appearance and lifestyle, the BPCA says Picards can adapt well to city life, provided their pet parent is able to provide exercise and companionship. Like most working dogs, Berger Picards’ grooming needs are low. Their characteristic wiry coat needs only an occasional brushing most of the year, and more consistent attention during spring and summer to control the shedding of their undercoat.