Berger Picard
Description
The Berger Picard is a rugged, medium-sized herding dog from the Picardie region of France. Standing between 50 and 70 pounds, this breed carries a wiry, medium-length coat that often comes in brindle or fawn shades, sometimes marked with white. Their rustic, scruffy look hides an athletic and agile frame built for long days of work. Picards are spirited and clever with a hint of stubbornness. They bond closely with their families and can be protective, making them reliable watchdogs. While they’re not overly vocal, they do have a moderate bark that alerts without overwhelming. Their history as shepherds means they thrive on both mental challenges and physical activity.
Grooming
The Berger Picard’s wiry coat needs regular attention to maintain its texture and natural color. At home, card your dog weekly to remove dead hair trapped in the coat. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the wiry topcoat. Professional handstripping every 8 to 12 weeks is essential to keep the coat healthy and vibrant, especially if you want to preserve that classic rough texture. Brindle and fawn colors with white markings don’t require special stain treatment, but keeping the coat clean and free of mats is key. Avoid overbathing; too much washing can strip natural oils. Key grooming points: - Weekly carding to remove dead hair - Gentle slicker brushing to prevent matting - Handstrip professionally every 2–3 months - Check ears and trim nails regularly - Bathe only when necessary Pro tip: Use a stripping knife during handstripping sessions to lift dead hairs without cutting the coat, preserving the wiry texture.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
Berger Picards need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed thrives on purposeful exercise that challenges both body and mind. A brisk morning walk followed by an evening session with some off-leash play or obedience drills works well. They enjoy varied routes that engage their senses and prevent boredom. Including scent games or short agility exercises during walks can keep them mentally sharp. Example routine: - Morning: 50-minute brisk walk with obedience practice - Evening: 50-minute walk including scent tracking and playtime Consistent, structured walks help manage their natural herding instincts and keep their energy focused.
Boarding
When boarding a Berger Picard, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium build comfortably. These dogs appreciate a predictable routine and slow introductions to new people and environments to reduce stress. Plan for two active play sessions daily, incorporating scent or brain games to keep their minds engaged. They respond well to enrichment that mimics their working heritage, such as puzzle toys or scent trails. Staff should note their moderate barking and natural protectiveness, ensuring socialization is handled gently but confidently. Picards enjoy interaction but also need downtime in a quiet space. A balanced mix of physical activity, mental stimulation, and calm rest periods will make their stay enjoyable and stress-free.