Berger Picard 2025 Guide: Care, Training & Temperament 🐶✨
In this article
Berger Picard 2025 Guide: Care, Training & Temperament 🐶✨
By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc
The Berger Picard, also known as the Picardy Shepherd, is a rare and rugged herding breed from northern France. With a wiry double coat, tall erect ears, and a smiling expression, Picards blend intelligence, independence, and affection—best suited to active, committed households.
History & Origins 📜
Dating back centuries in the Picardy region, Berger Picards once worked on farms and first appeared in dog shows around 1863. Though nearly extinct after the world wars, dedicated breeding recovered their numbers. The breed earned AKC recognition in 2015.
Appearance & Physical Characteristics
- Size: Males 23.5–25.5 in, Females 21.5–23.5 in; weight around 50–70 lb
- Coat: Harsh, weatherproof outer coat with soft undercoat; colors fawn or brindle with shaggy beard and eyebrows
- Distinctive Traits: Erect wedge-shaped ears, dark almond eyes, slight “J” curve tail, rustic yet regal stance
Temperament & Personality 🧠
Picards are smart, loyal, and affectionate with their families, yet reserved with strangers and independent. Their herding history gives them problem-solving skills and alertness. They form strong attachments and can be protective—but respond best to consistent, gentle leadership.
One Reddit owner shared: “They’re funny, stubborn, and loving—but need early socialization and purposeful activity.”
Exercise & Enrichment 🏃♂️
Picards need about 1–2 hours of daily exercise—walks, play, tracking, agility, or herding games. Mentally stimulating activities like scent puzzles prevent boredom-related mischief.
Training & Socialization 🎓
Begin socialization early to build confidence around people, pets, and environments. Picards are sensitive—training should be reward-based, lively, and consistent. A stubborn streak means varied lessons and patience are essential.
Grooming & Coat Care 🛁
- Brush several times per month; weekly during shedding seasons
- Bathe only when dirty; maintain natural coat texture
- Check ears weekly—tall ears gather dust and debris
- Trim nails monthly and brush teeth regularly
Nutrition & Feeding 🍽️
- Feed high-quality adult dog food, split into two meals
- Use joint and skin supplements like glucosamine and omega-3s
- Adjust feeding to match activity and body condition
Health & Veterinary Screening 🩺
Picards are generally healthy with a life expectancy of 12–14 years. Recommended screenings include:
- Hip dysplasia evaluation
- Eye exams for PRA and other disorders
- Regular veterinary wellness visits—annually, transitioning to semiannual after age 7
Living Environment & Compatibility 🏠
- Best in homes with secure yards and regular exercise
- Suitable for active families and experienced owners
- Reserved with strangers—makes a reliable watchdog
- Good with children and other pets when socialized early
- Not ideal for apartment life; needs room to move and explore
Pros & Cons Summary
| Pros ✅ | Cons ⚠️ |
|---|---|
| Intelligent, loyal, and unusual appearance | Requires consistent training and mental stimulation |
| Relatively low grooming and shedding | Independent nature may challenge novices |
| Excellent watchdog with moderate size | Needs early socialization with other dogs |
| Healthy lifespan with few known hereditary issues | Rare breed—harder to find breeders or rescues |
Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston BVSc
The Berger Picard is a rustic gem—intelligent, devoted, and spirited. When offered purposeful training, exercise, and respect, Picards thrive. Engage Ask A Vet for health oversight. If you're ready for a rewarding partnership, this rare herding dog can become a lifelong friend.
