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Berger Picard Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Berger Picard so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Working Dogs
Popularity Rank146
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Berger Picard dog profile picture
OriginFrance flagFrance
Other Names
What other names does the Berger Picard have?
Picardy SheepdogPicardy ShepherdBerger de Picardie
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Berger Picard Size and Weight

Size
Is a Berger Picard small, medium or large dog?

How big do Berger Picard get?

What is the average size of a Berger Picard?

Large
Weight
How much does the Berger Picard weigh? How much should a Berger Picard weight? What is the normal weight of a Berger Picard? How much does a full-grown Berger Picard weight?
51–71 lb (23–32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Berger Picard?
61 lb (27.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Berger Picard? Berger Picard height:
Male: 24-26 inches (61–66 cm), Female: 22–24 inches (56–61 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Berger Picard?
Male: 25 inches (63.5 cm), Female: 23 inches (58.5 cm)

Berger Picard Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Berger Picard puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Berger Picard in the United States? How much money is a Berger Picard?

Where to buy a Berger Picard with a good pedigree?

$2000-$2500
If you choose to purchase the Berger Picard, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Berger Picard for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Berger Picard gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Berger Picard? How many Berger Picard are there in the world?
Frequent: The Berger Picard is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Berger Picard Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Berger Picard? Is the Berger Picard breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Berger Picard ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Berger Picard dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Berger Picard?
Berger Picard dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Berger Picard good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Berger Picard dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Berger Picard dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Berger Picard dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Berger Picard dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Berger Picard Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Berger Picard have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
StubbornEnergeticIntelligentLivelyAssertiveMellow
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Berger Picard sensitivity:
Sensitive: Berger Picard dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Berger Picard a good family dog?
Average to High: Berger Picard dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Picardy Sheepdog need? Berger Picard social needs:
Berger Picard dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Berger Picard to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Berger Picard roam?
Berger Picard dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Berger Picard have high prey drive?
Berger Picard dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Berger Picard Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Berger Picard is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Berger Picard dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Picardy Sheepdog bark?
Average: The Berger Picard barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Berger Picard good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Berger Picard in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Berger Picard breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Berger Picard indoors by introducing daily routines.

Berger Picard Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Berger Picard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Berger Picard be left alone? How long can you leave a Berger Picard alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Berger Picard Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Berger Picard has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Berger Picard? How much bite force does a Berger Picard have? How strong is a Berger Picard bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Berger Picard bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Berger Picard measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Berger Picard is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Berger Picard bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Berger Picard bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Berger Picard puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Berger Picard, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Berger Picard bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Berger Picard can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Berger Picard bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Picardy Sheepdog? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Berger Picard? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Berger Picard has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Berger Picard do?
Berger Picard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Berger Picard dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Berger Picard Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Berger Picard dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Berger Picards tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Berger Picard breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Berger Picard breed? Most common health risks of Berger Picard:
Hip Dysplasia Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Retinal DysplasiaEye Infections
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Berger Picard breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Berger Picard see the vet?
Frequent
The Berger Picard should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Berger Picard dogs live? How old can a Berger Picard be? What is the age limit of the Berger Picard? How many years can the oldest Berger Picard live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Berger Picard?

How long is the lifespan of a Berger Picard?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Berger Picard: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Berger Picard can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Berger Picard Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Berger Picard have? What is the activity level of the Berger Picard?
Berger Picard dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Berger Picard need? How much exercise do Berger Picard dogs require per day?

Do Berger Picard dogs need a lot of exercises?

Berger Picard dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Berger Picard breed need?
Berger Picard dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Berger Picard Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Berger Picard need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Berger Picard breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Berger Picard? How much food should I feed my Berger Picard?
4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Berger Picard risk for obesity:
Average: The Berger Picard has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Berger Picard weight regularly.

Berger Picard Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Berger Picard have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
WiryWaterproofDouble
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Berger Picard coats?
GrayFawn Brindle
Grooming
How to groom the Berger Picard and how often? How often should I take my Berger Picard to the groomer?
Average: The Berger Picard requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Berger Picard, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Berger Picard dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Picardy Sheepdog? Do Berger Picard dogs shed a lot?
Berger Picard dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Berger Picard need a bath? How often should you give a Berger Picard a bath? Can I bathe my Berger Picard every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Berger Picard breed hypoallergenic?
No
Berger Picard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Berger Picard has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Berger Picard drool?
The Berger Picard is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Berger Picard could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Berger Picard.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Berger Picard Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Berger Picard dogs get along with other pets? Are Berger Picard dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Berger Picard dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Berger Picard temperament with other people:
Berger Picard dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Berger Picard dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Berger Picard temperament with children:
Berger Picard dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Berger Picard dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Berger Picard breed live with a cat?
Berger Picard dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Berger Picard good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Berger Picard dogs get along with other dogs?
Berger Picard dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Berger Picard breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Berger Picard breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Berger Picard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Berger Picard dogs good office canines? Do Berger Picard dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Berger Picard is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Berger Picard dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Picardy Sheepdog temperament with senior people? Are Berger Picard dogs good for elderly owners?
Berger Picards are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Berger Picard As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Berger Picard be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Berger Picard is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Berger Picard be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Berger Picard be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Berger Picard is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Berger Picard be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Berger Picard is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Berger Picard be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Berger Picard is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Berger Picard be a boat dog?

Not really

Berger Picard breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Berger Picard be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Berger Picard is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Berger Picard dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Berger Picard Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Berger Picard pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Berger Picard breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Berger Picard: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Berger Picard have in a litter? How many puppies can the Berger Picard breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Berger Picard have? How many puppies can a Berger Picard give birth to?
2-10 puppies, average 6

Berger Picard Recognition

AKC Group
Is Berger Picard recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Berger Picard recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Berger Picard breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Berger Picard Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Drooling Tendency: The Berger Picard is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Berger Picard dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Berger Picard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Berger Picard dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Adaptability: Berger Picard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Berger Picard dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Berger Picards are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Berger Picard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Issues: Berger Picards tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Berger Picard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Berger Picard breed in the home.
  • Office Friendly: Berger Picard is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Berger Picard History

Although the breed is relatively new to the AKC ring, it has a lengthy and fascinating history tracing back to the 9th century. These dogs are also known as the Picardy Shepherd, Berger de Picardie, or Chien de Berge.

While most people only recognize them from the movie “Because of Winn Dixie” they are told to be the oldest French herding breed, with characteristics similar to the strong, rustic pastoral dogs that have long been seen throughout Northern Europe.

 

The Name

Picardie, one of France's oldest provinces, is named after the Salian Frankish Picard tribe. In the fifth century, these Germanic people arrived in the area.

In the 12th century, the name Picardie was coined to refer to the broad territory where the Picard language was spoken. This territory, which stretched from northeastern France to the Netherlands, formed a crossroads for Merongovian and Carolingian kingdoms.

These main uniting dynasties arose in a post-Roman Europe that was divided. The Berger Picard was first mentioned in the ninth century, according to nineteenth-century cynologists.

 

Ancestry

Some enthusiasts believed that the Berger Picard was closely connected to other French sheepdogs like the Briard and Beauceron and that it predated them all. Others claimed a close connection to Belgian herders such as the Tervuren and Malinois, a plausible conclusion given the Netherlands' proximity to northern France.

Despite all these beliefs, a DNA analyst in 2018 proved that the Berger Picard is closely related to the German Shepherd Dog, as well as a variety of Italian herding breeds, notably the Bergamasco Sheepdog.

Even though all those breeds differ substantially in appearance, temperament, and function, the research suggests that they all share a common ancestor who lived in Western Europe.

 

On the verge of extinction

During the two world wars, the Berger Picard, like many other European breeds, was virtually extinct. During the Great War, four battles were fought along Picardy's Somme River over the course of four years, destroying farmland and cattle. In the early 1950s, when France returned to post-war normalcy, fanciers explored the countryside for excellent breeding prospects, and the breed slowly began to recover.

It's been a long road through. The Berger Picard club wasn't recognized by the French Kennel Club until 1959, and an official standard wasn't approved until five years later. The first Berger Picard litter was born in the United States in 1978, and the breed entered the Herding Group for the first time in July 2015.

The Berger Picard has been in advertisements for Geico, J. Crew, and Verizon in the 15 years since "Because of Winn-Dixie" put it on the map. Despite the exposure, it is still a relatively rare breed, which is probably a good thing because this independent-minded species does not fit into every family.

Even if some people still don't know what to call it, the ruggedly attractive Berger Picard can't help but turn heads, on-screen or off.

 

Little smugglers

The breed had a well-established function in French culture before the first world war which pushed the breed to the verge of extinction, and it wasn't limited to herding. Its reputation extended as a smuggling dog as well in the last few decades before the first world war.

Tobacco smuggling is included in most breed histories, but nothing compares to the economic possibilities of lace trafficking. Chantilly lace isn't only a song by the Big Bopper. France was a lacemaking center for centuries. The rising demand for this high-end item prompted a lot of resourcefulness to avoid paying expensive customs fees.

These pastoral dogs with a shaggy coat and a medium stature were appropriate for the job. They were unnoticeable, and they could easily carry 25 pounds of lace wrapped around their body and hidden by an artificial skin.

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