The Berger Picard is a medium-sized, well-muscled dog with a distinctive, tousled appearance, characterized by a wiry coat and prominent eyebrows.

Medium; males typically 23.5-25.5 inches tall, females 21.5-23.5 inches.

50-75 pounds.

Harsh, shaggy outer coat with a short, soft undercoat.

Fawn or brindle, often with gray or dark trim.

Naturally erect, high-set, and moderately pointed.

Reaches at least to the hock, with a slight J-curve at the tip.

Medium-sized, oval, and dark brown.

The Berger Picard is known for its lively, intelligent, and assertive temperament, displaying both a playful spirit and a strong sense of loyalty.

Forms strong bonds with their family and are deeply devoted.

Highly trainable and quick to learn, though they can be independent.

Confident and self-assured, requiring a firm and consistent owner.

Respond best to positive reinforcement and can be sensitive to harsh training methods.

Possess a high level of energy and require regular exercise.

Naturally alert and watchful, making them good watchdogs.

Enjoy games and activities, especially those that challenge them mentally.

The Berger Picard is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide consistent training, ample exercise, and plenty of mental stimulation.

Distinctive and appealing appearance.

Rare breed, may be difficult to find.

The ideal owner for a Berger Picard is someone experienced with dogs, committed to providing consistent training and socialization, and who enjoys an active lifestyle that can include their canine companion.

The Berger Picard requires moderate grooming to maintain its wiry coat, a balanced diet, and a living environment that accommodates their energetic nature.

Brush weekly to remove loose hair and prevent matting; occasional stripping of the coat may be needed.

Bathe only as needed, as frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Ideally suited to a home with a securely fenced yard where they can run and play.

Trim nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Brush teeth regularly to maintain dental health.

Berger Picards are intelligent but can be independent, requiring consistent, positive training. They have high energy levels and need substantial daily exercise.

Berger Picards are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but their independent nature means they need a confident and consistent trainer. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable around people and other animals. They can sometimes be stubborn, so patience and persistence are key.

This breed requires a significant amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Long walks, jogging, hiking, and interactive play sessions are ideal. They also excel in dog sports like agility, herding, and obedience. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise; puzzle toys and training games can help keep their minds engaged.

Establish clear rules and boundaries from the start, and stick to them.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate and reward good behavior.

Expose your Picard to a variety of people, places, and situations from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys, training games, and other activities to keep their minds engaged.

Harsh training methods can damage their trust and make them resistant to training.

Be prepared to work with their independent streak and don't get discouraged by occasional stubbornness.

The Berger Picard is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

Other eye conditions, such as cataracts, can also occur.

The Berger Picard's history stretches back centuries, with its roots likely in the ancient herding dogs of France. They are believed to be one of the oldest French herding breeds, thought to have been brought by the Celts. These dogs were primarily used by farmers in the Picardy region for herding sheep and cattle, valued for their stamina and intelligence. The two World Wars nearly drove the breed to extinction, and they remain relatively rare today. The Berger Picard was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1994 and the American Kennel Club in 2015.

Yes, when properly socialized, Berger Picards can be good with children. They are generally playful and tolerant, but supervision is always recommended, especially with young children.

They can get along with other dogs if properly socialized from a young age. However, their assertive nature means introductions should be gradual and supervised.

No, Berger Picards are not hypoallergenic. While their wiry coat sheds less than some breeds, they still produce dander.

Berger Picards need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise per day, including walks, runs, and playtime. Mental stimulation is equally important.

Their wiry coat requires weekly brushing and occasional stripping, but they are relatively low-maintenance compared to some other breeds. Bathing should be infrequent.

The average lifespan of a Berger Picard is 12-14 years.

They are not excessive barkers, but they will alert their owners to anything unusual. Proper training can help manage barking tendencies.

Due to their rarity, finding a Berger Picard puppy can be challenging. It's best to contact reputable breeders through breed clubs like the Berger Picard Club of America.

While individual preferences vary, many Berger Picards enjoy swimming and can be strong swimmers. Always supervise your dog around water.

Berger Picards are better suited to homes with yards due to their high energy levels. Apartment living is possible, but only with a significant commitment to daily exercise and mental stimulation.