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Thought to be one of the oldest herding dogs bred in France, the Berger Picard (pronounced bare-zhay-pee-carr) has a rich history. Originating in the Picardy region of France, the Picard was a breed highly valued for its stamina and intelligence. The breed has close family ties to other French herding breeds, the Briard and Beauceron.
The breed was showcased in France’s first dog show in 1863, and nearly went extinct amid WWI and WWII. War ravaged Picardy, decimating the pastures the breed had once thrived in. The resilient, spirited Picard overcame the odds and now is a rare icon among the range different breeds. Something of a herding legend, there is more to this rare breed than meets the eye.
Picards Are Intelligent and Loyal
The Picard is a highly intelligent, eager-to-please breed, making them easy to train. The breed has a tendency to be stubborn, but with the right reinforcements they are ready to work with their owners. Berger Picards respond well to praise and affection from their owners, and don’t tend to be highly motivated by food.
An Intrinsically Independent Breed
Bred as herding dogs, Berger Picards have a longstanding history as an independent, problem-solving breed. Socializing a Picard early may limit this hyper-independence and reinforce good behavior in their puppy years. Picards have a bit of a reputation for being stubborn, so consistent socialization and training is key in maintaining their temperament. With the right level of patience, care, and activity, a Picard can be trained to be an excellent companion.
This Breed Is Easy to Groom
The Picard’s shaggy, wiry double coat is highly manageable. Throughout most of the year, the breed only needs to be brushed once a month. During shedding season, their coats should be brushed every day or two. The Picard’s bathing regimen is also low maintenance, only requiring occasional baths.
Berger Picards Are a Loving Breed
Picards are more reserved around strangers, but have lots of love for their families. The affectionate, loyal breed tends to build a strong bond with its owners. They are good with children and thrive off of time with their owners.
They’ve Been Featured on the Big Screen
The Picard has had its own star turn in a few different movies. The breed was featured in “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “Daniel and the Superdogs,” and “Are We Done Yet?”. The breed’s Hollywood moment made Americans fall in love with the Berger Picard, putting them on the map in the United States.
Berger Picards Make for Good Watchdogs
This breed’s herding instincts make them quite watchful and protective. Berger Picards can be a barky breed, equipping them to alert their owners when someone enters their home. Families hoping to bring a guard dog into their lives may look to consider the diligent Picard.
Minimal Health Problems
Most Berger Picards can live long, happy, healthy lives. Picards have a life expectancy of 12-13 years, and don’t tend to deal with a lot of health issues. The most common issues Berger Picards tend to face are hereditary problems such as hip dysplasia and eye problems like retinal atrophy.
They’re Natural Athletes
Exercise is key to for a happy, healthy Picard. Neglecting to keep them active will lead to destructive behavior. The Berger Picard’s agility and boundless energy make them an excellent fit for athletic owners. Picards are great companions for long walks, running, cycling, and hiking.
Berger Picards Perform Well in Dog Sports
The smart, agile breed is a natural fit for competing in dog sports. Picards require a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Participation in herding, tracking, agility, or obedience competitions can help keep the Picard sharp, happy, and healthy.
They’re a Newer Breed
The Berger Picard was first showcased at France’s inaugural dog show in 1863, but was not recognized as an official breed in the country until 1925. Establishing the breed in North America has proven to be a challenge. The Internet has played a major role in raising the Picard’s profile by connecting European breeders and American buyers. The first Berger Picard litter in the U.S. was whelped in 1978. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015. Despite their increasing prevalence, Berger Picards remain a rare breed.
As the Berger Picard continues to gain recognition in the US and beyond, its resilience is something to marvel. Its deep history as an indigenous French herding dog that overcame extinction makes the breed’s mark on the world all the more interesting.
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