Berger Picard

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Rustic French herding breed known for its tousled, “just got out of bed” look and big expressive ears.
• Highly intelligent, sensitive, and people focused, yet often reserved or aloof with strangers.
• Needs plenty of daily exercise and mental work, but usually calmer indoors than many other herding breeds.
• Thick, weather resistant coat that is naturally shaggy and does not require elaborate grooming.
• Still a relatively rare breed, so responsible breeders and careful socialisation are especially important.

Appearance & Coat

The Berger Picard is a medium to large herding dog with a distinctly rustic appearance. At first glance many people think of a scruffy mixed breed, but on closer inspection you notice the balanced proportions, strong build, and very clear type. Males typically stand around 60 to 65 centimetres at the shoulder, with females slightly smaller. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a deep chest and solid bone that gives the dog a sturdy and athletic outline without heaviness. Nothing about the Berger Picard should look exaggerated. The head is long and fairly narrow, with a gently tapering muzzle, a very alert expression, and those famous large, high set ears that stand upright like triangles.

The eyes are usually medium to dark and always full of expression. Many owners describe the Berger Picard gaze as thoughtful, almost as if the dog is constantly analysing the situation. The tail is thick at the base and usually carried low with a slight J shaped curve at the end when relaxed. In motion it can be carried a little higher, especially when the dog is excited, but should not curl over the back.

One of the breed’s most striking features is the coat. The Berger Picard has a harsh, dry, and weather resistant outer coat that feels a bit like rough goat hair when you run your hand through it. The hairs are normally around 5 to 6 centimetres long on the body, slightly longer on the neck and thighs, and shorter on the head and lower legs. There is a soft but not overly thick undercoat that adapts to the season and climate. Around the face, the coat forms subtle eyebrows, a moustache, and a small beard that add to the breed’s charming, somewhat mischievous look without hiding the eyes.

Accepted colours are various shades of brindle and fawn. This can range from lighter sandy tones to deeper reddish or greyish fawn, sometimes with subtle striping. White markings are generally limited to a small patch on the chest or a few light hairs on the toes and tip of the tail. Large white areas are not typical for the breed.

Coat care is refreshingly simple compared with many other herding breeds. The Berger Picard does not need trimming or complicated styling. In fact, over grooming can spoil the natural look and texture. Most adult dogs do well with a thorough brushing once or twice a week with a pin brush or a coarse comb. This helps remove dead undercoat and prevents small mats, especially behind the ears and in the feathering on the thighs. During shedding seasons in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing is helpful to keep fur off the furniture and allow the new coat to come through.

Bathing should be kept to a minimum. Too many baths can soften the coat and reduce its protective qualities. Unless the dog rolls in something particularly unpleasant, a bath every few months or even less is usually enough. When you do bathe a Berger Picard, use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Regular checks of the ears, teeth, and nails complete the basic grooming routine. The upright ears usually stay clean and dry, but it is still wise to check them weekly and remove any dirt with a damp cloth.

With sensible grooming habits and a bit of routine, the Berger Picard’s coat is very manageable and well suited to an active outdoor lifestyle. It protects the dog from wind, light rain, and undergrowth, while still being easy for the owner to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Living with a Berger Picard feels a bit like living with a thoughtful, slightly stubborn friend who loves you deeply but does not feel the need to impress strangers. This is a herding breed with a strong character and a clear sense of its own opinions. At home they are deeply devoted to their family and often form a particularly strong bond with one person, while still being affectionate and loyal to everyone they consider part of their “flock”.

Around familiar people, the Berger Picard is cheerful, sometimes clownish, and full of small, endearing gestures. Many owners mention that their dogs like to watch them closely and seem to anticipate their needs, whether that is bringing a toy to the sofa in the evening or nudging gently for a walk at the usual hour. They enjoy being involved in daily activities and do not like to be left out of family life. In a calm household, they can be surprisingly relaxed and enjoy stretching out at your feet or snoozing nearby while you work or read.

With children, a well bred and well socialised Berger Picard is typically patient and kind, especially if the children are respectful of dogs. They are not usually a hyperactive “nanny dog” who wants constant play, but rather a calm guardian and companion. Older children and teenagers often form very close bonds with this breed, particularly if they participate in training or activities such as agility. As with any breed, young children should be taught to interact gently, and all play should be supervised to avoid misunderstandings or rough handling.

When it comes to strangers, the Berger Picard is often reserved or wary. This does not mean aggressive, but rather cautious and observant. Many Picards prefer to watch new people quietly before deciding if they are trustworthy. This trait made them excellent farm guardians and explains why early socialisation is crucial. Puppies should meet many friendly people, experience different places, and learn that visitors are normal. Without this, the natural reserve can become excessive shyness or nervousness, which is difficult to correct later.

With other dogs, the Berger Picard can be friendly and playful, especially if raised with regular dog contact from a young age. However, some individuals can be selective or a bit bossy, particularly with the same sex. Good socialisation and clear guidance from the owner keep interactions smooth. With other pets, such as cats, rabbits, or chickens, success depends on early introduction and training. The herding instinct is present and can easily turn into chasing behaviour if the dog is allowed to practise it.

There are a few common challenges that potential owners should be aware of. The breed is intelligent and easily bored, which can lead to creative mischief if there is not enough exercise and mental stimulation. A lonely or under stimulated Berger Picard may become vocal, destructive, or overly watchful, reacting to every sound or movement. Their sensitivity means they do not respond well to harsh treatment or shouted commands and may shut down or become anxious.

On the positive side, this same sensitivity makes them highly attuned to their owner’s emotions. When handled calmly and consistently, they learn quickly and try hard to do the right thing. They thrive in a home where their independence is respected, their brain is used, and their loyalty is appreciated. For people who enjoy building a close partnership with a dog, the Berger Picard can be a deeply rewarding companion with a unique mix of softness and rustic strength.

Training & Exercise

The Berger Picard is an active, work oriented dog that needs both physical exercise and mental engagement to stay balanced. While they are not usually as intense as some high drive herding breeds, they are far from couch potatoes. An adult Berger Picard typically needs at least one to two hours of varied activity each day, split between walks, free running where safe, and structured training or games.

Daily walks should include opportunities to sniff, explore, and move at different speeds. A simple loop around the block is rarely enough in the long run. Many owners find that a combination of a longer morning walk and a slightly shorter evening outing works well. Off leash exercise in secure areas is ideal, as it allows the dog to stretch out into a comfortable trot or gallop and use its natural agility. Where off leash is not possible, a long line can offer more freedom while keeping everyone safe.

Training a Berger Picard requires a thoughtful approach. These dogs are highly intelligent but also independent and a bit sensitive. They respond best to positive reinforcement, clear structure, and variety. Short training sessions of 5 to 10 minutes, repeated several times a day, are usually more effective than long, repetitive drills. Food rewards, toys, and enthusiastic praise can all be used, but many Picards are especially motivated by the feeling of working closely with their person.

Because they are quick learners, they can also be quick to learn unwanted habits. For example, if a young dog discovers that barking at the window makes people move away, it may repeat this behavior. Consistency from the beginning is essential. Set house rules early, such as where the dog is allowed to rest, how it greets visitors, and how it behaves on lead. The breed is sensitive to unfair treatment and will not forget if it feels roughly handled, so physical punishment or loud anger is counter productive.

The Berger Picard tends to excel in canine sports that use both body and brain. Many enjoy:

• Agility, where their natural athleticism and coordination shine
• Obedience and rally, which build precision and teamwork
• Herding trials, for owners who have access to livestock
• Tracking or mantrailing, which allow them to use their powerful nose

Even if you never compete, incorporating elements of these activities into your routine can make daily life more interesting for the dog. Simple exercises like hiding toys or treats for the dog to find, practising recall games in the garden, or teaching new tricks every few weeks can have a big impact on mental wellbeing.

A young Berger Picard should not be over exercised on hard surfaces while still growing, as this can strain developing joints. Instead, focus on multiple short walks, free play on soft ground, and gentle training such as basic cues and simple nose work. Mental fatigue is often more satisfying and safer for a puppy than long distance running.

Many Picards have a natural tendency to guard their home and family, and to react to movement. This can show up as barking, rushing to windows, or trying to round up running children or bicycles. Training calm responses from the beginning, rewarding quiet behaviour, and providing regular controlled exposure to these triggers helps to prevent problems. A well trained Berger Picard is a pleasure to live with: responsive, helpful, and eager to participate in whatever the day brings.

Health

The Berger Picard is generally considered a robust and hardy breed, shaped by a long history of working outdoors in varying weather. Many individuals enjoy long, active lives well into their senior years. However, like all breeds, they have certain health issues that responsible breeders and owners should be aware of.

One of the main concerns in medium to large dogs is hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain and arthritis. Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs with official hip evaluations and breed only from animals with acceptable scores. Elbow dysplasia, although less common, can also occur and is often included in health screening programs.

Eye health is another area of attention. Conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts have been reported in the breed. These diseases can affect vision, sometimes gradually over time. Responsible breeders usually perform eye examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists at regular intervals. In some countries, genetic tests for certain eye conditions may be available and can help to reduce the risk in future generations.

Like many deep chested breeds, the Berger Picard can be at some risk of gastric dilatation volvulus, often called bloat. This is a serious, life threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist. While not extremely common, owners should learn the signs, such as sudden distended abdomen, unproductive retching, restlessness, and signs of pain. Preventive measures include feeding two or three smaller meals per day instead of one large one, avoiding intense exercise immediately before and after meals, and using a calm feeding routine.

Other possible issues include certain allergies or skin irritations, often related to environment or diet, and occasional heart or thyroid problems. Overall, the incidence of severe hereditary disease in the Berger Picard appears relatively moderate compared to some more popular breeds, but the small global population makes careful breeding choices important to protect long term genetic health.

A typical life expectancy for a Berger Picard is around 12 to 14 years, with some individuals reaching even older age. To support a long, healthy life, owners should focus on:

• Balanced, high quality nutrition appropriate for age and activity level
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints and organs
• Regular exercise that keeps muscles strong without overloading the body
• Routine veterinary checkups, including dental care and vaccinations as recommended

Prospective owners should ask breeders which health tests are performed on the parents. At a minimum, hip scoring and eye examinations are widely recommended within the breed community. In some regions, elbow scores and other optional tests may also be used. A responsible breeder will happily explain the results and discuss overall health in their lines.

Pet insurance is worth considering, as treatment for orthopedic problems, eye surgery, or emergency conditions such as bloat can be costly. Having insurance in place early, before any issues appear, makes it easier to choose the best medical options if ever needed.

With thoughtful breeding, good daily care, and prompt attention to any early signs of discomfort, most Berger Picards remain active and enthusiastic companions for many years. Their sturdy constitution and moderate build are assets that, combined with a committed owner, support a long and rewarding life together.

History & Origins

The Berger Picard is one of France’s oldest herding breeds, yet also one of the least known outside its homeland. Its name comes from the region of Picardy in northern France, where it worked for centuries on farms and open fields. There is some debate among historians about the exact origins, but it is widely believed that the Berger Picard shares common ancestry with other rustic European shepherd dogs, such as the Briard and Beauceron. What sets the Picard apart is its leaner build, rough coat, and very natural look that has changed little over time.

For much of its history, the Berger Picard was not a dog of show rings or wealthy estates. It was a working partner of farmers and shepherds, valued for its ability to move cattle and sheep, protect property, and adapt to changing conditions. These dogs had to be tough, intelligent, and self reliant. There was little room for fragile health or exaggerated features. As a result, the breed developed into a resilient, agile, and versatile herder perfectly suited to the rough fields and variable climate of northern France.

The Berger Picard’s story was heavily shaped by the two World Wars. Fighting in northern France led to widespread devastation of farms and livestock, and naturally the working dog population also suffered. Many Picards were lost, and by the mid 20th century the breed’s numbers had dropped dangerously low. Dedicated fanciers and farmers worked to rebuild the population from the few remaining lines, carefully selecting dogs that still looked and worked like the traditional Picard type.

The breed was officially recognised in France relatively early, but international recognition took more time. The French kennel club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale eventually established a standard that described the correct appearance and character of the Berger Picard. In other countries, such as Germany and the Nordic nations, interest grew slowly as people discovered the breed’s charm and working abilities. The Berger Picard later reached North America, where small but passionate groups of enthusiasts began to promote and protect it.

Today, the Berger Picard is no longer used widely as a full time farm dog, although some individuals still work with livestock. Instead, it has found a new role as a versatile companion for active families, sport handlers, and people who appreciate a more natural looking herding breed. Picards can be seen in herding trials, agility competitions, obedience, tracking, and even in some forms of search and rescue. They sometimes appear in films or commercials, where their expressive faces and slightly “wild” appearance are particularly appealing.

Despite this growing visibility, the Berger Picard remains a relatively rare breed worldwide. This rarity is a mixed blessing. On one hand, it has protected the breed from some of the extreme overbreeding and exaggeration seen in more fashionable dogs. On the other hand, it means that maintaining a healthy genetic base requires careful cooperation between breeders in different countries.

Modern breed clubs place strong emphasis on preserving not only the physical type of the Berger Picard, but also its traditional character. The goal is to maintain a dog that is both a reliable family companion and a functional working animal in mind and body. When you meet a Berger Picard today, you are seeing a living link to the old pastoral landscapes of northern France, adapted to modern life while still carrying the quiet strength and independence of its rural ancestors.

Living with the Breed

Bringing a Berger Picard into your home is a commitment to living with an intelligent, sensitive, and active partner who expects to be part of your daily life. This is not a breed that thrives in the background. They want to know what is going on, to participate in family routines, and to have a clear role. For many people, this involvement is exactly what makes them so special.

A typical day with a Berger Picard might include an early morning walk or gentle jog, some basic training or a short game in the garden, and time spent resting calmly near you while you work. In the afternoon there might be another walk, perhaps with some off leash play or nose work, followed by a relaxed evening indoors. They are usually calm in the house if their needs are met, but boredom can quickly lead to creative trouble. A young Picard without enough structure may start redecorating the garden, shredding soft furnishings, or turning barking into a favourite hobby.

Housing conditions can vary. A securely fenced garden is ideal and makes life easier, but is not an absolute requirement if the owner is committed to regular outdoor activity. What is important is safe space to move and explore, not simply being left alone in a yard. The breed’s coat handles weather well, but they are social dogs who want to share time indoors with their family. Keeping a Berger Picard isolated in a kennel or garage is not suitable and will likely create behavioural problems.

Annual costs for a Berger Picard are similar to other medium to large breeds. You should budget for:

• Quality food appropriate to the dog’s age, size, and activity
• Routine veterinary care, including vaccinations and parasite prevention
• Pet insurance or a savings plan for unexpected medical expenses
• Grooming tools such as a good brush and comb, nail clippers, and dog shampoo
• Training classes, sport club fees, or private lessons if needed

On top of that, consider the cost of sturdy equipment. The Berger Picard is active and fairly strong, so well made gear is important. Useful items include a comfortable, well fitted harness or collar, a strong lead, a long line for training, safe chew toys, durable balls or tug toys, a cozy bed, and perhaps a crate or secure resting area where the dog can relax undisturbed.

First time owners can do well with a Berger Picard if they are prepared to learn, work with a good trainer, and invest time in socialisation and routine. People who have previously lived with other herding breeds or working dogs often find the adjustment easier, as they are already familiar with the need for structure and engagement. This is not an ideal breed for someone who is away from home most of the day and expects a dog to be content with a brief walk and then sleep alone.

One of the keys to a successful life with a Berger Picard is early and ongoing socialisation. Puppy classes, carefully chosen encounters with friendly adult dogs, visits to different environments, and calm introductions to guests at home all help shape a confident adult. Socialisation should be positive and gradual, never forcing the pup into overwhelming situations. The goal is to teach the dog that the world is safe and that its owner will guide it through new experiences.

Mental enrichment is at least as important as physical exercise. Simple ideas include food puzzles, scatter feeding in the garden, short training sessions throughout the day, and varied walking routes. Teaching the dog useful practical behaviors, such as going to a mat when visitors arrive or calmly waiting at doors, makes daily life smoother and gives the dog clear expectations.

In return for this commitment, a well raised Berger Picard offers a companionship that many people describe as unusually deep. They are watchful without being aggressive, playful without being frantic, and affectionate without being clingy. Their natural dignity and rural charm appeal to those who like dogs with a bit of character. Living with a Berger Picard is not about owning a decorative pet, but about sharing your life with a capable and loyal partner who, in their own quiet way, will always try to be at your side.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Berger Picard typically have?

This breed is usually intelligent, sensitive and observant, with a naturally reserved attitude toward strangers. With family, they are loyal, affectionate and often playful, but they retain a strong independent streak that reflects their herding background.

How much exercise does a Berger Picard need each day?

Most adults need at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity daily along with some mental work such as training or scent games. Without enough structured exercise, they may become restless, vocal or start inventing their own jobs around the house or yard.

Is a Berger Picard a good family dog for homes with children?

They can be good family companions for respectful, dog‑savvy children, especially if socialized from a young age. They are herding dogs, so some may try to nudge or gather running children, which needs to be managed with training and supervision.

How difficult is it to train a Berger Picard?

They are highly trainable but tend to think for themselves and may question repetitive or harsh methods. Short, varied sessions using calm, consistent, reward‑based training usually works best, and early socialization is important to prevent excessive wariness.

What grooming does a Berger Picard’s rough coat require?

Their harsh, shaggy coat is naturally somewhat dirt‑resistant and typically needs a thorough brushing once or twice a week to prevent tangles and remove dead hair. Professional grooming is usually minimal, but hand‑stripping or careful trimming may be used to keep the coat tidy without softening its texture.

What health problems are Berger Picards most prone to?

This is generally a healthy breed, but there is some risk of hip dysplasia, eye conditions and certain hereditary issues in poorly bred lines. Reputable breeders will screen for joint and eye health, and owners should keep the dog lean and fit to protect the joints throughout life.

Are Berger Picards good apartment dogs or do they need a yard?

They cope best in homes where they have regular access to outdoor space and opportunities to move and explore. An apartment can work for a well‑trained adult if the owner is committed to several purposeful walks and mental activities every day, but a secure yard is often more practical for this active herding dog.

How vocal are Berger Picards and do they bark a lot?

They tend to be alert watchdogs that will bark at unfamiliar people, animals or sounds. With structure, socialization and adequate activity, most learn to settle and bark appropriately, but they are not typically suited to owners who need a very quiet dog.

Do Berger Picards get along well with other dogs and pets?

Many live peacefully with other dogs, especially if raised with them, although some can be a bit aloof or bossy due to their herding heritage. Their chase instinct can be triggered by quick‑moving small animals, so introductions to cats and other pets should be careful and supervised.

Is the Berger Picard a rare breed and how does that affect finding a puppy?

The breed is still relatively uncommon in many countries, which often means waiting lists and the need to travel to a responsible breeder. Rarity also makes it especially important to seek breeders who prioritize health testing and stable temperament rather than simply producing more puppies.

Sources

• The Kennel Club (UK)
• Société Centrale Canine (France)
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (Germany)
• Svenska Kennelklubben (Sweden)