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Picardy Sheepdog
Breed Rating (1 Reviews)
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| Friendliness | |
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History
The Picardy Sheepdog is also sometimes known as the Berger Picard and Picardy Shepherd. They are one of the oldest French Herding breeds, dating back to 800AD. After the two World Wars their numbers declined rapidly. Nowadays they are still classed as a rare breed, but not endangered. They were bred as herding dogs and were used to drive and herd sheep across France and Belgium. The exact origins of the breed remain unknown, though many believe that it is related to the Briar, Beauceron or Belgian Shepherd breeds.
Behaviour
The Picardy Sheepdog is a loyal breed who will seldom leave your side. They are good with children, other dogs and even other pets. Early socialisation is a must with this breed, otherwise they will be territorial and sometimes even aggressive. Taking them to puppy classes and introducing them to lots of other people and dogs will all help. They don’t chase after animals, though as with many other herding breeds they can sometimes try and “herd” small children.
These dogs are quick to learn and are very intelligent. Firm and consistent training will be needed in order to get the ebay out of them. Positive reinforcement also works well. Keeping the training consistent is key with this breed. They can be sensitive to harsh words and rough treatment, so be sure to keep an air of kindness around you when training. Their minds are always active and they need something to do to keep them stimulated, agility and obedience suit the breed.
Because they are such a loyal breed, they can suffer from separation anxiety. They are known for being picky eaters, so it may take a while before you come up with a menu that suits them.
Picardys are active and enjoy running. Once trained, their recall is usually good and they should be fine with being let off lead. If they are well socialized they’ll enjoy playing with other dogs around them, often trying to herd the other dogs. They enjoy being a part of the family and don’t do too well in kennels. They need people around them to fully thrive and will often curl up next to you after a long walk.
Their coats are low maintenance and pretty much look after themselves. They will need a brush once every few weeks to remove dead hair, though they shed surprisingly little. A thorough brush when they are molting is advised.
Temperament
Picardy Sheepdogs have a sensitive and companionable temperament. They make great family pets and will want to get in on any family activity. They are good with children and other pets, especially when socialised properly from a young age. Consistent training is important to get the best out of this breed.
Health Problems
Healthwise this breed can be prone to Canine Hip Dysplasia, though this is quite rare as they aren’t a heavy breed. Eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy can also be seen, though again this is rare and in general this is a healthy breed.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 12 - 13 years
- Weight: 50 - 70 lbs
- Height: 21 - 26"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Medium
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Town or Country: Country
- Minimum Home Size: Small House
- Minimum Garden Size: Small to Medium Garden
- Breed Type: Herding
- Size: Medium
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Up to 1 hour
More to love
Picardy Sheepdog Pictures
Latest Reviews For Picardy Sheepdog (1 of 1)
Wonderful Breed - Tracey,
Ruby, our Picardy Shepherd is 14 and can still run faster than most of the dogs at the park. Great company, great in the car. Very well behaved. Her coat is double layered and we get her regularly trimmed otherwise she gets dreadlocks. Great with children and cats, very sociable at the park. Never had a health issue at all. Has her annual jab at the vets and that is it. Rubys vet says she is in very good shape and cannot believe her age. She has a slight heart murmur that doesn't cause any issues at all. Can leave her on her own buts she is so good why would you. I would recommend the breed to anyone who wants a companion and likes walking.