Berger Picard

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized dog that is slightly longer than it is tall. It has a well-muscled body and a distinctive rough coat. Its erect ears and natural tail are its most notable features. The Berger Picard has a lively, intelligent personality and responds quickly to obedience training.

Generally, Picards are easy-going and relaxed, but they can be stubborn at times and may not warm up to strangers right away. They need plenty of socialization in the first two years of life. Picards are energetic workers with a keen sense of alertness – although they don’t typically bark excessively. Some may be picky eaters, so it could take some trial and error to find the right diet for your dog.

Because the breed has a well-developed sense of humor, they make endearing companions. They also continue to be used very effectively as both sheep and cattle herders in their native land (the Picardie region of France) and elsewhere. However, like many herding breeds, Picards require human companionship–and lots of it. Because they can be expressive of their feelings to their owners and may become too friendly with other animals, formal obedience training along with socialization from a young age is necessary. If you want an animal that is physically able to work all day long and will be enthusiastic about it as long as there is verbal praise involved, then this breed is ideal for you.

The Picard is known to be amusing, intelligent, and physically fit by those who live with him. If you get the okay from your vet, he may be the perfect dog for you if you’re looking for a jogging or hiking buddy- or even someone to join you on bike rides. Many of them adore swimming and would rather stay in the water than come out of it. At bare minimum, this breed needs several lengthy walks each day; however, they do have an “off switch” where they can lay calmly indoors after being active outdoors.

Although he excels at herding, you might also find him competing in agility, obedience and rally.

Boredom often leads to destructive behaviors for this dog breed. If you are an active family with a strong sense of humor, he would be the perfect match for you.