The Berger Picard is perhaps the oldest of all the French shepherd dogs. This breed arrived in Picardy in AD 800. These dogs have been named after the Picardie region in north-eastern part of France. Some experts believe this breed is connected to the more popular Briard and Beauceron. Other believes they share their origin with the Dutch and Belgian Shepherd dogs. The Berger Picard appeared at the initial French dog show in 1863, but the breed's appearance did not lead to popularity as a show dog. After the two World Wars this breed was almost extinct, and is still very rare. There about 3000 of these dogs in France, and about 350 in Germany.
Temperament
It is advised that you should have some previous dog ownership experience before getting one of these dogs. The Berger Picard has a very sensitive and self-assured nature. You will find that these dogs are also extremely loyal and calm. They get along well with children, dogs and other animals - especially if they have been raised with them. The Berger Picard is a very diligent, lively and alert dog. The Berger Picard will however not do well if they are cut off or uncared for - and this might lead to destructive behaviour. This breed will do very well guardian of their families, livestock and their territories.
Care
The coat of the Berger Picard should only be combed or brushed two times a month, especially when they are shedding during spring and autumn. The fur of these dogs should not be washed or trimmed. It can be cleaned off when dirty. This is a very light shedding breed, and they also have no doggie smell.
Training
This breed is extremely intelligent, and also very quick to learn. The Berger Picard breed will need to be socialised and trained in obedience from very early on. These dogs also have a very stubborn streak, and can also be very temperamental. It is advised that their training sessions are short and diverse to avoid boredom. This is a breed that will not respond positively to cruel or unkind training methods. Training should be done in a patient, fair and firm manner.
Health problems
Some of the Berger Picard's suffer from hip dysplasia, but it is not very common as these dogs are not very heavy. Some of the puppies will also get eye infections because of wind and dirt that gets into their eyes. When older than one year, they will not struggle with this anymore. They also suffer from some genetic eye problems such as the PRA and RD.
Breed group: Non-sporting
Weight: 7-12 lbs
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Overview
The Bichon Frise is a cross between the Poodle and the Barbet Water Spaniel, and made its first appearance during the 14th century. The Bichon was traded by Spanish sailors traded the Bichon, and during the 16th century they became a firm favourite of the French royal courts. These dogs were circus performers and very popular organ grinder's dogs. Today they are primarily show and companion dogs.
Temperament The Bichon Frise has a very sweet, lively, bouncy and active temperament. They are very fond of playing, and will have erratic bursts of liveliness that will lead them into many unfamiliar adventures. This is usually outside of the yard, or when they are off the leash. This breed is very playful and friendly toward strangers - they also make excellent watchdogs. The Bichon Frise is one of the very few smaller dogs that get along very well with children. You will find that these dogs are very care free, and that they get along well with other dogs and animals. They are however very sensitive and they like to cuddle up one a member of their family's lap. The Bichon Frise is a very independent dog that is also highly intelligent. They show a lot of affection toward others and they are also very confident and charming. Care
The Bichon Frise is a dog that requires a lot of maintenance, and should be brushed often and bathed once a month. It is recommended that they are groomed by a professional every 4 weeks. The hair around their ears and eyes should also be trimmed with a pair of blunt scissors - it is also advised that their eyes should be cleaned to prevent staining. Electric clippers should be used to trim the body of the dog, but a scissor should still be used to trim the rest of the dog. The Bichon does not shed a lot of hair, and is therefore ideal for those suffering from allergies.
Training The Bichon Frise is a very intelligent dog, but they are fairly difficult to housebreak. They are slow to grow up, and they males are usually somewhat easier to train than females. Crate is recommended for the Bichon Frise, and it is vital that the training should be conducted in a consistent and patient manner. These dogs will do well with obedience and agility training, especially if it is started at a young age. The Bichon Frise flourish when they can socialise, and they are very fond of performing tricks.
Health problems
Some of these dogs tend to suffer from watery eyes, cataracts, skin and ear ailments, epilepsy and also dislocated kneecaps. The Bichon Frise is very sensitive to flea bites.