Berger Picard

Origins and History

The Berger Picard, also called the French Shepherd Dog, traces its roots to the medieval herding dogs of northern France. Documents from the 16th century describe a rough‑coated, medium‑sized working dog used by shepherds in the Picardy region. The breed survived the French Revolution and World Wars by remaining a functional farm dog, and it was formally recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) in 1909. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) accepted the standard in Group 1 (Sheepdogs & Cattle Dogs) – breed number 221.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: Medium‑sized, slightly longer than tall, with a well‑balanced, athletic frame.
• Temperament highlights: Intelligent, alert, independent, and deeply loyal to its family; possesses a strong herding instinct.
• Primary breed purpose: Historically a livestock guardian and herding dog; today also excels in obedience, agility, and protection work.

Note: While this information reflects the current breed standards, individual dogs may vary.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 56‑61 cm (22‑24 in); Females 54‑59 cm (21‑23 in).
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 18‑30 kg (40‑66 lb).

Coat and Color

• Texture: Harsh, wiry, medium‑length double coat that is weather‑resistant; undercoat is soft but not dense.
• Accepted colors: Fawn, brindle, black, or a combination of fawn and black; white markings may appear on the chest, toes, or tail tip but must be limited.

Temperament Considerations

The Berger Picard is highly intelligent and eager to work, yet it retains a strong independent streak. This can make the dog question commands that lack clear purpose, so training should always be linked to a task or reward.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Begin early (8‑12 weeks) with exposure to people, other dogs, and varied environments to temper wariness.
• Exercise needs: Minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous activity daily; activities such as herding trials, agility, or long‑distance hikes satisfy both physical and mental needs.
• Common training challenges: Stubbornness, tendency to become bored with repetitive tasks, and a strong prey drive that may lead to chasing small animals.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or a firm‑toothed comb to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: Bathe only when necessary (approximately every 2‑3 months) to preserve natural oils; use a mild dog shampoo.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails monthly; brush teeth several times a week and provide dental chews.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin a thorough brush‑out 7‑10 days before the show, followed by a light trim of the foot pads and a final hand‑strip of any overly long guard hairs 2‑3 days prior.
• Ring presentation tips: Present the dog in a square stance, keep the head high, and move with a smooth, confident gait to showcase the breed’s natural elegance and working ability.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommended hip radiographs and OFA/BAR evaluation.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing is available.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work if clinical signs appear.
• Epilepsy – monitor for seizures and discuss with a veterinary neurologist if observed.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Minimum 1‑2 hours of active exercise daily; mental stimulation is equally important.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality protein‑rich diet appropriate for the dog’s age, activity level, and weight; avoid over‑feeding to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues.
• Lifespan considerations: Average lifespan 12‑15 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventive care help maintain longevity.