Berger Picard
LivelyObservantAssertive
France · 12–13 years
About the Berger Picard
The Berger Picard (pronounced 'bare-ZHAY pee-CAR') is France's oldest herding breed, with a history stretching back to the 800s when they arrived with the Celts in the Picardy region of northern France. Nearly destroyed by both World Wars, they remain one of the rarest herding breeds. Berger Picards gained international fame starring as 'Winn-Dixie' in the 2005 movie. Their distinctive features include erect ears, shaggy eyebrows, and a rustic, wiry coat that gives them an endearingly scruffy appearance. They are lively, intelligent, and independent dogs with a good sense of humor.
Breed stats
- Height
- 21.5–25.5 in
- Weight
- 50–70 lbs
- Lifespan
- 12–13 years
- Group
- Herding
- Coat
- Rough, crisp, wiry, medium length
- Origin
- France
Coat colors
- Fawn
- Brindle
- Gray
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
60–90 min
per day recommended
Daily food
2–3 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Eye disorders
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Allergies
Not every Berger Picard will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Berger Picards eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, Berger Picards are one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. The global population is estimated at only about 3,500 to 4,000 dogs. They were nearly wiped out during World War I and World War II, as the Picardy region of France — their homeland — was heavily affected by both wars. Even in France, they remain uncommon. In the United States, there are only a few hundred Berger Picards, and finding a reputable breeder often involves waiting lists of a year or more. Their rarity means prices are typically $2,000 to $3,000 or more from responsible breeders.
- Berger Picards can be excellent family dogs for active, experienced households. They are loyal, playful, and generally good with children, enjoying interactive play and family activities. Their protective nature makes them alert watchdogs. However, they are an independent, sensitive breed that needs early socialization to prevent shyness or wariness around strangers. They can be stubborn during training and respond best to positive, patient methods. Berger Picards need families committed to providing daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training — they are not a low-maintenance breed despite their wash-and-wear coat.
- Berger Picards need 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. They are athletic, energetic herding dogs that enjoy long walks, hikes, running, and interactive play. They excel at dog sports like agility, herding trials, and flyball, which provide both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Mental enrichment is equally important — puzzle toys, scent work, and training sessions help keep their active minds occupied. Without sufficient exercise and stimulation, Berger Picards can become destructive and develop behavioral problems. They are best suited to active owners with access to outdoor space.
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