Characteristics
large
55–65 cm
27–30 kg
14–16 years old
Hounds, bloodhounds and related breeds
Brief information
Character
It is believed that most of the French herding breeds, including the Picardy Sheepdog (or Berge Picard), descended from the dogs of the ancient Celts who came to the territory of modern France and Britain around the 4th century BC.
It is likely that the Picardy Sheepdog spread widely throughout France during the High Middle Ages at that time the first images of similar dogs appeared. Nevertheless, Berger Picard was not officially mentioned until the end of the 19th century, when she was first presented at a breed competition.
The Picardy Sheepdog, according to the owners, has a balanced and calm disposition. She is not characterized by outbreaks of aggression or manifestation of jealousy. One of its wonderful qualities is easy adaptability to the situation.
Many note that it is very important for the Picardia shepherd to be near the owner. She finds thousands of different ways to show him her love and devotion, besides, she is affectionate and attentive to children. This shepherd does not tolerate loneliness, and the shepherd’s past makes it incredulous in relation to strangers (especially to other dogs). Therefore, it is important to socialize the pet of this breed in childhood so that he understands that other animals are friends, not enemies. With proper education, the dog of this breed will perfectly accept other pets in the family.
The Picardia shepherd, like other shepherds, is a universal worker-she is equally good at watching a herd or house and will become an excellent companion dog. Training this breed is good. It requires a gentle but firm approach, excluding even the slightest manifestation of cruelty. The Picardy Sheepdog is not suitable for people who are not ready to insist on their own at the mere sight of her loving eyes.
Care
The hard, dense coat of the Picardy Sheepdog does not require special care. To remove dead hairs and to avoid the appearance of an unpleasant odor and tangles, it must be plucked with a special brush with fine teeth about once every one to two weeks. It is necessary to bathe the dog no more than once a month, the rest of the time, with minor contamination, the coat can be wiped with a wet sponge. Pay special attention to the paws.
The Picardy Sheepdog may experience joint and eye problems as they age. To avoid the development of joint dysplasia (appears with an active lifestyle) and retinal atrophy, it is important to show your pet to a veterinarian annually.
Conditions of detention
The Picardy Sheepdog is a large, active breed that can live in a large area. Preferably a spacious fenced yard. Time spent with the owner is a holiday for the dog, therefore, in order to maintain its psychological health, it needs to pay a lot of attention. The Picardy Sheepdog excels in agility and freestyle.
