Berger des Picard (also known as the Picardy Shepherd, Berger de Picardie, and Berger Picard) is a rare French dog breed from the herding class. After WWI and WWII, the breed was close to extinction. In 2004, the UKC officially recognized them. In the US, an organization named the Berger Picard Club of America was founded in 2006.
This breed has a long history, traceable in France way back to the 9th century, and it are considered the oldest breed of sheepdogs in France. They are thought to share a common ancestry with the Belgian Shepherds. During the two World Wars of the 20th century, the heavy destructions in France have led to a dramatic decrease in the number Berger des Picard dogs. Even if there have been many efforts in bringing them back to a comfortable stock, their numbers are still short nowadays, even in their homeland.
Their average weight is around 60 lbs. (27 kg) and their average height is 23.5 inches (60 cm). Their water-proof coat is thick and strong (about 6 cm), having harsh hair, and coming in two colors: brindle and fawn. They are considered to have a medium size, being a little longer than tall. Their ears are always up, their eyes are always black and their eyebrows are always broad.
When trained well, the Berger des Picard is very assertive and obedient. These dogs are full of intelligence and personality. Also, the Picardy Shepherd is what you would call a dog that “plays it cool” it is mellow, sometimes reticent towards strangers, laid back and possibly even stubborn. As another shortcoming, this breed is known for being rather picky with food.
On the other hand, when it comes to work, they do not mess around, as they are very content when they feel needed and useful. Having a fairly territorial mind frame, they are also suitable for guarding or herding duties, even if they can be moderately silent.
Concerning health, the Berger des Picard dogs are fairly clean, as they are known as rather healthy dogs, with no common disease risk. They usually live up to 12 - 14 years. Exercise is important for them, as they are naturally an outdoor breed, very athletic and in love with action, a feature that made them very popular in sporting events dedicated to dogs. When not stimulated enough, they tend to get bored and act out.
Even if generally connected with outdoors activities, the Picardy Shepherd is suited for urban settings and indoor living, with the sole condition of having a stable and engaging exercise program. This can ideally include walks and running while the master is jogging or riding a bike. The Picardy Shepherd loves attention, especially in its first couple of years. When left inside alone, he can develop separation anxiety.
On the other side, the breed is low maintenance, as it does not require bathing; the coat does not have the specific odor commonly associated with herding dogs. Apart from a weekly quick brush, the coat of a Berger des Picard does not require special attention.
