Berger des Pyrenees - Dog Breed Info, Temperament & Facts

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The Berger des Pyrenees is known as the smallest herding breed from France. It takes this breed approximately three years to reach full maturity. They have two distinct facial features: a smooth face and a rough face. Additionally, they come in long and demi-long coat variations. These dogs are highly energetic and demand your complete attention. They are also incredibly intelligent, but lack of mental or physical stimulation can lead to behavioral issues. Therefore, it is not recommended for inexperienced dog owners to have a Berger des Pyrenees. They require ample exercise and thorough training.

The Berger des Pyrenees is a lively and intelligent breed that thrives on mental and physical challenges. Without proper stimulation, they may develop behavioral problems. This breed is not suitable for novice dog owners as they require a significant amount of activity and intensive training. With their small size and distinct facial features, the Berger des Pyrenees stands out among herding breeds. It is important to provide them with the attention and mental stimulation they need to prevent any behavioral issues from arising.

Below, we look at Berger des Pyrenees dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Berger des Pyrenees, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Berger des Pyreneess!

Dog Breed Berger des Pyrenees
Size
Weight 30-45 lbs (average)
Height 15-19″ (average)
Location French Pyrenees Mountains
Ancestry Shepherd
Date of Origin 6000 BC
Group Herding livestock
Life Expectancy
Price
Family Canidae
Scientific Name Canis Lupus Familiaris

📖 Breed History

The Berger des Pyrenees is a herding breed that originated in the Pyrenees Mountains of Southern France. It was developed by ranchers and farmers to work alongside the Great Pyrenees, a livestock guardian dog that protected the herd from predators. There are some interesting myths surrounding this breed, such as its descent from Pyrenean foxes and bears, and its connection to the Cro-Magnon people who painted the caves at Lascaux.

During World War I, the Berger des Pyrenees was taken from its homeland to assist in the war effort. It was trained to locate wounded soldiers, deliver messages, and serve as a guard dog. Its bravery and usefulness during this time led to its growing popularity in Europe. In the 19th century, the breed was brought to the Americas by shepherds who migrated in search of work. Some believe that the Berger des Pyrenees played a role in the development of the Australian Shepherd, another popular herding breed in the United States.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the Berger des Pyrenees gained popularity in the United States. Many breeders began importing dogs from France to incorporate into their breeding programs. This helped to establish the breed and increase its presence in the country.

🐕 Berger des Pyrenees Appearance

The Berger des Pyrenees has a strong personality and is a very active dog. He displays intellect and a desire to impress others through his curious look. He has light bones without seeming weak or fine-boned. The Berger des Pyrenees excels in dog sports including agility, dock diving, herding trials, obedience, and rally and is a wonderful herder. He has to be socialized from an early age since he is inherently wary of strangers. Semi-long and long-haired are the two distinct coat varieties available for the Berger des Pyrenees. Additionally, he comes in both smooth and rough faced variants. A litter might have both coat kinds and types. More crucial than the quantity of coat he wears is the quality of that garment. Long or demi-long coat varieties might be flat or have a little wave. The demi-long Berger des Pyrenees will have culottes on the rump, but the long-haired Berger des Pyrenees will have a thicker coat with plenty of feathering, and as his hair develops, it may even cord. He has a thin undercoat and a rough coat.

👀 Eye Color Brown
🐽 Nose Color Black
🐕 Coat Color Black, White, Brindle, Blue, Gray, Fawn

Fun Fact:

🐶 Traits & Temperament of Berger des Pyrenees

Although they need a lot of activity, Berger des Pyrenees dogs have excellent endurance. He is quite clever and energetic, so his family will have problems if they leave him alone in the garden to amuse himself. He has the potential to be loud and harmful. He would benefit significantly from activities that require him to think and use some energy, such as engaging in and training for dog sports. He does attempt to herd people, animals, vehicles, bicycles, and other objects since he has a strong propensity for herding. When he is playing with kids, it is a good idea to keep a check on him since he can try to herd them by biting at their legs and feet. To prevent him from trying to control street traffic, a strong barrier is advised. He is a wonderful security dog and will bark when anything strange approaches his house or land because he is a herding breed.

🤝 Are Berger des Pyreneess Friendly or Aggressive?

🐩 Berger des Pyrenees Care & Maintenance

There are two unique appearances for the Berger des Pyrenees: smooth face and rough face. The rough faced person certainly has a furrier face, but the hair on his face should never cover his eyes. The demi-long or long haired Berger des Pyrenees comes in two varieties: smooth faced and rough faced. The Berger des Pyrenees has a tough coat that does not mat readily and does not shed much, regardless of variation or kind. The long-haired variety’s coat may naturally cord as it ages. The variety or coat type does affect how much grooming is necessary. Only a few times each month does the demi-long and smooth-faced need to be carefully brushed. He can be brushed more often to get rid of any dirt or stray hairs. To avoid mat formation and maintain a healthy coat, the rough-faced and long-haired need to be combed at least once a week. A corded coat does need particular cleaning and care.

🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or around $30.00 a month.

🐾 Exercise:

This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 15 – 35 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.

Did you know:

❤️‍🩹 Berger des Pyrenees Health & Issues

Some of the major concerns for Berger des Pyrenees Dog Breed can be:

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Patent Ductus Arteriosus

While minor concerns include:

  • Patellar Luxation
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

🤧 Important: Is Berger des Pyrenees hypoallergenic? .

Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Berger des Pyrenees.

⚡ Berger des Pyrenees Dog Breed Facts

What makes the Berger des Pyrenees a great choice for families with young children?
The Berger des Pyrenees is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be gentle and protective. However, it is important to supervise their interactions as they may try to herd children by nipping at their legs and feet.

Is the Berger des Pyrenees breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Berger des Pyrenees breed is not considered suitable for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for extensive exercise. They require a large, securely fenced yard where they can run and play.

How much exercise does a Berger des Pyrenees require compared to other breeds?
The Berger des Pyrenees requires a significant amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They have great endurance and need daily physical activity to burn off their energy. This can include long walks, running, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports.

Is the Berger des Pyrenees breed known for being good with other pets?
The Berger des Pyrenees breed can be good with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. However, their herding instinct may cause them to try to herd smaller animals, so caution should be taken when introducing them to other pets.

What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Berger des Pyrenees?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Berger des Pyrenees include the Beagle, Basset Hound, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These breeds have lower exercise and grooming needs compared to the Berger des Pyrenees.

What are the common health issues that Berger des Pyreneess are prone to?
Common health issues that Berger des Pyrenees are prone to include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these health issues.

Are Berger des Pyreneess known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Berger des Pyrenees are generally known to be easy to train due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please. However, they do require consistent and firm training methods to prevent behavioral issues.

Are Berger des Pyreneess more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Berger des Pyrenees can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly trained and provided with enough mental stimulation and exercise. They are a breed that thrives on human companionship and may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods.

Are there any dog breeds similar to the Berger des Pyrenees that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Berger des Pyrenees that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce less dander, making them more suitable for individuals with allergies.

What sizes of dogs similar to the Berger des Pyrenees are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller-sized dogs similar to the Berger des Pyrenees, such as the Shetland Sheepdog or the Welsh Corgi, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds are still energetic and require exercise, but their size makes them more adaptable to smaller living spaces.

Is the Berger des Pyrenees breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Berger des Pyrenees breed can be good with children with special needs, as they are generally gentle and protective. However, as with any breed, proper supervision and training are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog.

How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Berger des Pyrenees?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Berger des Pyrenees are moderate. Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, and they shed moderately throughout the year. Compared to other breeds, they may require more grooming attention due to their longer coat.


We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Berger des Pyrenees dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.

Max Kozinskiy
Max Kozinskiy
Max Kozinskiy is a seasoned writer and an enthusiast of dog breed expertise. Having dedicated over 5 years to studying the intricacies of different dog breeds and their unique characteristics. His profound insights and love for our four-legged friends have made him an invaluable part of our DogsInsights.com team.

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