Berger Picard

Ultimate Dog Wiki

Want a dog that looks like it just stepped out of a French countryside painting—rugged, yet charming, with an irresistible scruffy coat and an even scruffier personality? Meet the Berger Picard, a breed as rare as it is delightful. This French herding dog is known for its distinctive, tousled appearance and a personality that’s equal parts playful and loyal.

Lifespawn

Approximately 12 to 14 years.

Weight

50 to 70 pounds (23 to 32 kg).

Height

Males: 23.5 to 25.5 inches (60 to 65 cm); Females: 21.5 to 23.5 inches (55 to 60 cm)

Colours

Fawn or brindle with a rough, tousled coat.

Size

Medium.

Breed Group

Herding Group.

Quick Facts

  • Suitable for experienced owners; benefits from consistent training and socialization.
  • Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement methods.
  • Moderate to high; requires regular physical activity and mental stimulation.
  • Medium-sized dog.
  • Low; minimal drooling.
  • Moderate; regular brushing to maintain coat health and manage shedding.
  • Non-hypoallergenic breed.
  • Moderate; may bark to alert or during play.
  • Alert and watchful; makes a good watchdog.
  • Generally good with other pets if properly socialized.
  • Good with children; supervision recommended during interactions.

History and Origin

In the rolling countryside of northern France’s Picardy region, one of the oldest French herding breeds developed alongside the farmers who worked this fertile land. The Berger Picard, or Picardy Shepherd, traces its documented history back to the Celtic tribes who inhabited this region, though much of its earliest development remains shrouded in historical uncertainty.

The first reliable written records of these distinctive dogs appear in 1863, with French manuscripts describing rough-coated shepherd dogs working the pastures of Picardy. Their upright ears and harsh coat set them apart from other French herding breeds of the time. These early accounts depict practical working dogs, bred by farmers for capable herding rather than fashionable appearances.

While some theories suggest these dogs arrived with Celtic tribes who settled in northern France around 400 BC, archaeological evidence provides more concrete insights. Findings from the 8th and 9th centuries include artifacts and cave drawings depicting dogs with the characteristic upright ears and rough coats typical of the modern Picard.

The breed faced near extinction during World War I, when its native region became a battlefield. The fertile fields of Picardy, where these dogs had worked for centuries, were transformed into trenches and shell holes. Many dogs perished, and breeding records were lost. The devastation of World War II dealt another blow to their already diminished numbers.

The first official breed standard appeared in 1922, and the Berger Picard received recognition from the French Shepherd Club in 1925. This formal documentation helped preserve the breed’s traditional characteristics during its postwar recovery.

A dedicated group of French breeders launched restoration efforts after World War II, working with surviving dogs to rebuild the breed. Their careful work ensured the Picard avoided extinction, though it remains one of the rarer French herding breeds.

Modern DNA studies confirm what historical records have long suggested: the Berger Picard is one of the oldest French herding breeds, distinct from but related to other continental shepherd dogs. Today’s breeding programs prioritize maintaining both the working abilities and distinctive appearance that have defined these dogs for centuries.

The breed gained international recognition slowly. While well-known in France, the Berger Picard did not receive American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition until 2015. This late acknowledgment actually benefited the breed, as breeders were able to focus on preserving its traditional working characteristics rather than adapting to show standards.

The modern Berger Picard stands as a living link to France’s agricultural heritage, embodying both the physical traits and working abilities that made it invaluable to generations of French shepherds. Though The Berger Picard remains relatively rare, with an estimated 3,500 dogs in France, 500 in Germany, and approximately 400 in the United States and Canada.



Physical Characteristics

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized, herding breed and possess a well-balanced frame built for endurance rather than brute strength:

Males typically stand between 23.5 to 25.5 inches (60 to 65 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 60 to 70 pounds (27 to 32 kg), while females are slightly smaller, standing 21.5 to 23.5 inches (55 to 60 cm). Both are typically weighting between 50 to 60 pounds (23 to 27 kg)

The Berger Picard’s size allows it to be agile and quick, yet strong enough to work long hours herding sheep or cattle. Their athletic build is perfect for tasks requiring endurance and stamina.

One of the most distinctive features of the Berger Picard is its rough, unkempt-looking coat, which gives the breed its rustic and practical appearance. This coat isn’t just for show — it’s designed to protect them from harsh weather and rough terrain while working in the fields.

  • Texture: The coat is harsh, crisp, and rough, typically between 2 to 3 inches long, giving the dog a shaggy, tousled look. Despite the rough texture, the coat isn’t overly dense, which prevents matting and makes the Berger Picard relatively low-maintenance. Underneath the topcoat is a fine, softer undercoat that provides insulation in colder climates.
  • Color: The Berger Picard’s coat can range in shades from fawn to brindle. Fawn colors can vary from light yellow to darker red, while brindle coats have darker streaks of black or gray mixed with the lighter base color. The breed’s overall appearance often includes dark shading on the ears, face, and sometimes along the back, giving them a weathered and hardy look.

The Berger Picard’s coat does not shed heavily and requires minimal grooming — typically brushing once a week to remove dead hair and dirt. Their coat is naturally designed to be easy-care, but it may need some hand-stripping twice a year to maintain its texture and health.

Several distinctive features set the Berger Picard apart from other herding breeds:

  • Head and Expression: The head is proportional to the body, with a slightly elongated skull and a strong, square muzzle. Their dark eyes are full of intelligence, mischief, and alertness, giving them a lively, inquisitive expression.
  • Ears: One of the most recognizable traits of the breed is their large, erect ears, which are set high and stand upright. The ears are triangular and slightly rounded at the tips, which adds to their alert, ready-for-action look.
  • Body and Build: The Berger Picard has a strong, well-muscled body with a straight back and well-arched ribs. They are slightly longer than they are tall, providing balance and agility, which is crucial for herding. Their hindquarters are powerful, allowing them to cover ground quickly and change direction with ease when working.
  • Tail: The tail is long and slightly curved, carried low at rest but lifted when the dog is excited or in motion. It has a slight hook at the end, which is characteristic of the breed.

The combination of their rugged coat, expressive eyes, and sturdy build gives the Berger Picard an air of rustic charm, strength, and readiness.



Temperament and Behavior

The Berger Picard is a highly intelligent and independent thinker, traits that stem from its long history as a working herding dog. While this intelligence makes them quick learners, they are also known for their stubborn streak. Training a Berger Picard requires patience, consistency, and creativity. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods, as they can become bored or frustrated with harsh training techniques.

It’s essential to start training early, focusing on basic commands and socialization to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults. While they excel in herding and agility, they can be headstrong, so maintaining clear leadership and a structured routine is important.

The Berger Picard is a high-energy breed that requires significant daily exercise. As a working dog, they have plenty of stamina and are happiest when they have a job to do. They need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day to stay physically and mentally healthy. Ideal activities for this breed include:

Long walks or jogs.
Hiking, which engages both their body and mind.
Off-leash play in a securely fenced yard.
Agility training or herding trials, which tap into their natural instincts.
Despite their serious work ethic, Berger Picards are also playful and enjoy games of fetch or chase with their owners. Their playful nature makes them fun companions, and they often carry a sense of humor into everything they do. Without sufficient exercise and engagement, they can become restless and bored, leading to unwanted behaviors.

Loyalty is one of the Berger Picard’s most defining traits. Once they bond with their family, they are deeply devoted and protective. They are known to be affectionate with their family members, often forming especially strong attachments to one person.

While they are affectionate and playful with those they know and trust, the Berger Picard can be reserved with strangers. Early socialization is crucial to help them feel comfortable in different situations and around new people. Although not aggressive, they are naturally wary of outsiders, making them excellent watchdogs.

With children, they are typically gentle and tolerant, but they may try to herd smaller kids due to their strong herding instincts. Supervision and proper training are important to manage this behavior.



Caring and Grooming

The Berger Picard’s coat is one of the breed’s highlights in terms of appearance and low maintenance. Thanks to their rough, wiry coat, they are relatively easy to care for:

  • Brushing: Their coat only needs to be brushed once or twice a week to remove dirt and loose hairs. The coat is naturally resistant to matting, and regular brushing helps keep it in good condition.
  • Bathing: They do not need frequent baths — once every few months or when they become particularly dirty is sufficient. Over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, which help protect against the elements.
  • Hand-stripping: To maintain the texture of their rough coat, hand-stripping (removing dead hair by hand) may be necessary once or twice a year. This process keeps the coat from becoming too soft and helps the dog shed more naturally.

Other grooming essentials include ear cleaning, nail trimming (at least once a month), and dental care to prevent tartar buildup.

The Berger Picard is an active, working breed that needs 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous exercise every day. Without proper exercise, they can become restless and develop behavioral problems. Ideal forms of exercise include:

  • Long walks or runs: They enjoy being outdoors and require space to move.
  • Hiking: Picards thrive on exploring new terrain, which engages both their mind and body.
  • Agility training or herding trials: These activities mimic the breed’s natural instincts and are great for physical and mental stimulation.

In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training sessions, or interactive play is crucial to prevent boredom.

The Berger Picard requires a high-quality diet that supports their active lifestyle. They typically need around 1,200 to 1,600 calories per day, depending on their size, age, and activity level. A diet rich in lean proteins and healthy fats will help maintain their muscle mass and coat health.

Picards are not prone to obesity, but it’s important to monitor their weight and adjust their portions based on their activity levels. They also benefit from joint supplements as they age to help maintain their mobility and prevent joint issues.



Ideal Living Environment

The Berger Picard is best suited for homes with plenty of space to run and play. They thrive in rural or suburban environments where they have access to a large yard or open areas for exercise. While they can adapt to urban living, they are not ideal for apartment life unless the owner is very active and committed to meeting their exercise needs.

Because they are highly active and require both mental and physical stimulation, they do best in homes where they can be part of daily activities and outdoor adventures.

The Berger Picard’s double coat provides excellent protection in cold and moderate climates. They can handle cold weather well, thanks to their thick undercoat, but care should be taken in extreme heat. In warmer climates, make sure they have access to shade and fresh water during outdoor activities, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day.

With proper socialization, Berger Picards generally get along well with other dogs. However, due to their strong herding instincts, they may try to herd or chase smaller animals like cats or rabbits. Early training and supervision are important to manage these instincts in multi-pet households.

They tend to be more compatible with dogs of similar energy levels, as they enjoy playing and interacting with other active dogs.



Life Stages

Berger Picard puppies are curious, energetic, and full of life. This is the most important time for socialization and training to ensure they grow into well-rounded adults. Introducing them to different people, environments, and animals during this stage helps prevent shyness or fearfulness later in life.

Puppies need frequent short play sessions and training that engages both their mind and body. Consistent, positive reinforcement helps lay the foundation for good behavior.

In adulthood (typically between 1.5 to 7 years), the Berger Picard reaches its full physical and mental capabilities. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. This is the stage where they excel in tasks like agility, herding, or even obedience competitions.

Their strong loyalty and protective instincts become more pronounced in adulthood, so continued socialization is important to ensure they remain friendly and confident in new situations.

As they enter their senior years (around 8 years and older), Berger Picards may start to slow down, but they still need moderate exercise to keep their joints healthy and prevent weight gain. Joint supplements and a senior-specific diet can help support their aging bodies, particularly as they become more prone to arthritis.

Regular vet check-ups become increasingly important to monitor for any age-related health issues and adjust their care as needed.



Health

The Berger Picard is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, but they can be prone to certain health issues:

  • Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket, potentially leading to arthritis.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye condition that can lead to blindness over time.
  • Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition in large, deep-chested breeds where the stomach fills with gas and can twist.

Owners should monitor for signs of health problems such as:

Lameness or difficulty moving (signs of hip dysplasia).
Night blindness or vision issues (potential signs of PRA).
Swollen abdomen or signs of distress after eating (possible signs of bloat).

Routine veterinary check-ups, including hip evaluations and eye exams, are important for catching potential health issues early. Preventing bloat by feeding smaller meals and avoiding vigorous activity right after eating is crucial for this breed.

Maintaining a healthy weight, providing joint supplements, and ensuring regular exercise will support the long-term health and well-being of the Berger Picard.

A close-up of a Berger Picard with expressive eyes and upright ears.

Bringing home a Berger Picard puppy is like inviting a curious, energetic furball into your life. These puppies are intelligent, independent, and full of energy—so you’ll need to be ready for lots of playtime, training, and bonding. Here’s how to get ready for your new shaggy companion:

  • Exercise, exercise, exercise: Picard puppies are bundles of energy, and they need plenty of exercise to keep them happy. Daily walks, playtime, and a securely fenced yard where they can run around are essential to burning off that puppy energy.
  • Start training early: Berger Picards are smart but can be a bit stubborn or independent, especially if they sense that they can outwit you (and they might try). Start with basic commands and socialization as soon as possible, and keep training sessions positive and engaging.
  • Socialization is key: Picards can be a bit reserved with strangers, so early socialization is crucial. Introduce your puppy to new people, animals, and environments to help them grow into a well-rounded, confident adult.
  • Mental stimulation is a must: These dogs are thinkers. They need plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy, so consider puzzle toys, obedience training, or even herding tasks to keep their minds engaged.
  • Secure fencing required: Picards are known for their agility and love for running, so make sure you have a securely fenced yard to keep them safe. They’ll love to patrol the perimeter, ensuring everything is in order.

The Berger Picard thrives in environments where they have a job to do. Whether it’s herding, agility, or simply playing fetch in the yard, these dogs love to stay active. Here are a few activities where Picards truly shine:

  • Agility: With their athletic build and sharp mind, Picards excel in agility courses. They love having a physical and mental challenge to tackle, and agility training is a great way to keep them engaged and fit.
  • Herding trials: While they may not be herding sheep on a daily basis anymore, Picards still have strong herding instincts. Herding trials allow them to use their natural abilities in a structured, competitive setting.
  • Obedience and rally competitions: Thanks to their intelligence, Berger Picards do well in obedience trials. These competitions challenge their ability to follow commands and stay focused, something they do with style and grace (most of the time).
  • Tracking and scent work: Picards have a keen sense of smell and love to use it. Scent work and tracking activities are great ways to tap into their natural talents while providing mental stimulation.

Given that Berger Picards are a rare breed, they don’t often show up in rescues, but it’s not unheard of. Sometimes, people adopt Picards without fully understanding their need for mental and physical stimulation, leading to rehoming situations. If you’re considering adoption, several Picard-specific rescue organizations can help match you with the right dog.

Adopting a Berger Picard can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to be prepared for their energy and independence. These dogs need an active, engaged owner who’s ready to put in the time and effort to keep them happy and well-adjusted.

Fun Facts about Berger Picards

  • Movie star status: The breed’s big Hollywood break came when a Berger Picard starred as “Winn-Dixie” in the film Because of Winn-Dixie, showcasing the breed’s charm and personality to a global audience.

  • Scruffy but smart: Despite their unkempt appearance, Berger Picards are highly intelligent and excel in obedience and agility competitions.

  • Rare breed: The Berger Picard is still considered a rare breed, even in its native France. Dedicated breed enthusiasts are working hard to keep the Picard’s numbers growing, especially in the U.S.

Common Myths about Berger Picards

Myth 1: Berger Picards are too independent to train.
While Picards are known for their independence, they are highly trainable. The key is to use positive reinforcement and make training fun. They’re smart enough to know when they’re being challenged and when they’re just being told what to do.

Myth 2: Berger Picards are low-energy because of their laid-back appearance.
Not even close! Picards are full of energy and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They may look relaxed, but they’re always ready for action.

Conclusion

The Berger Picard is a breed that perfectly blends independence, intelligence, and charm. Whether they’re herding livestock, competing in agility, or simply being a loyal companion, Picards bring a unique mix of scruffy looks and serious skills. If you’re looking for a dog that’s as hardworking as it is fun-loving, the Berger Picard might just be the perfect fit.

Having seen these dogs in action, I can tell you—they’ve got heart, humor, and a whole lot of personality. If you’re ready for a dog that will keep you entertained while being a loyal companion, the Berger Picard could be the perfect addition to your family.

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