Berger Picard Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Berger Picard?

The origin of the Berger Picard definitely dates back to ancient times, but its history is widely disputed by historians. It has existed in France since at least the middle ages, but its exact background remains unclear.

Some believe it to have emerged as a mix between a German Shephard and several different Italian herding dogs, including a Lupino del Gigante and a Bergamasco Shepherd. Others claim it is linked to the dogs brought over to France by the Central European Celts. Others still believe it was introduced as far back as the 9th century by the Franks.

One thing that many agree on is that the Beger Picard was the first-ever French sheepdog, although this, too, cannot be confirmed. The name comes from Picardy, which remains a major agricultural region of Northern France.

Alongside the likes of Beaucerons and Briards, the Berger Picard emerged as one of the main choices for livestock farmers. Its popularity culminated in 1863 when it made its first appearance at a French dog show.

Like several other dogs, the existence of the Berger Picard was threatened during the World Wars. Luckily, lovers of the breed managed to preserve it, and remained a somewhat popular breed, though only in France.

The Beger Picard was at last introduced to the rest of the world in 2005, thanks to the family movie Because of Winn-Dixie. This film starred a Berger Picard and it inspired dog breeder Betsy Richards to found the Berger Picard Club of America that same. In 2015, the breed was recognised by the American Kennel Club.

Who are Berger Picard dogs best for?

Berger Picards love a high-energy household, which would suggest they're best suited for families. However, they may be dangerous to have around young children, as erratic movement can trigger a herding response from them. Families with bigger kids, who know how to be responsible around a Berger Picard, would, therefore, be a good match.

Their size mixed with their energy makes them pretty boisterous around the house, so they should only be taken on by families who can manage it. They're also too big and too energetic for apartments - they need plenty of space to run around and burn out their energy.

They are best suited for families who can be committed to walking them for at least 45 minutes per day, either over two smaller walks or one big one.

How much grooming does a Berger Picard need?

In winter and summer, Berger Picards require only minimal grooming about once a month. Both of its two coats don't require any trimming and only need to be combed once per month to remove dead hair.

However, in the shedding season, which falls during both the spring and autumn, Berger Picard's produce much more excess hair and requires combing at least once every week. In terms of other maintenance responsibilities, it is recommended that you brush a Berger Picard's teeth daily, clean and clip their nails once a month, and regularly clean their ears.

Do Berger Picard bark much?

It's in a Berger Picard's nature to naturally bark whenever they clock a passing human, dog, or cat - this is to be expected from any herding dog. It's unlikely that your Berger Picard will bark unprovoked as they'll only bark when they perceive something that is potentially threatening. For this reason, they make good guard dogs.

The extent of their barking can be lessened but unlikely to be totally cut out, which is worth considering if you live on a street with lots of neighbours.

Do Berger Picard bite?

Compared to other herding dogs, play-biting is minimal in Berger Picards and only really occurs during puppyhood. When they bite you, there's no harmful intent behind it and they're only doing it because they're excited. It's important, however, to break this habit as soon as you see it but using a command word such as 'no'.

What is the temperament & personality of a Berger Picard?

Having been trained as French herding dogs, Berger Picards are highly observant and a big part of their personality revolves around picking up on their owner's emotions. Deeply personal, almost human bonds can therefore be formed between an owner and a Berger Picard.

They know when you're happy and when you're sad and are particularly distressed when they know you're angry with them. When you're sad, it almost feels like your Berger Picard is going out of its way to make you laugh, by cracking a smile or cocking its head to the side.

As much as they love their owners, they also enjoy running around and exercising on their own and can display a strong sense of independence - as long as you are not leaving them alone completely.

They know how to bounce their excitement off older kids, who make the best playmates for them, as they're likely the only ones who can match their energy!

What is the weight & size of a Berger Picard?

A Berger Picard is a medium dog - both in breed size and in length. Its height can be anywhere between 54 and 64 cm. A proper diet will see this pup weighing somewhere between 22 kg and 31 kg.

How much training does a Berger Picard need?

Picard training can be easy, as long as you've got patience and a lot of energy. You need patience as this dog can show a slightly stubborn streak - particularly if you're teaching them new things outside of puppyhood. You also need the energy to provide them with plenty of positivity and affection when they do perform a command correctly.

Like several breeds in the herding group, Berger Picards do not respond well to treat rewards and especially not verbal punishments. You need to work primarily on praising them physically.

In terms of what you can train this dog to do, from puppyhood, you can work on socialisation with other dogs, agility training, house training, hiking training, and other tricks and commands. They're highly intelligent dogs and can respond well to commands and pick up patterns easily.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Berger Picard?

Berger Picards are considered to be a very healthy breed that is only disposed to developing a few health problems. These health issues include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and some eye-related problems, including canine multifocal retinopathy and progressive retinal atrophy.

As with all dog breeds, it's important to get these healthy dogs regularly checked by a vet.

What is the lifespan of a Berger Picard?

A Berger Picard has a life expectancy of 12-13 years.

How much should you feed a Berger Picard?

Feeding a Berger Picard depends on its age, size, and weight. Dry dog food works pretty well for a Berger Picard, as long as their daily feed is split into two separate meals.

What is the price of a Berger Picard in Australia?

Berger Picards remain a rare breed, with few registered breeders around the world, and only a limited amount found in France. In France, they sell for the equivalent of $2,800 to $3,500 in AUD.