• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Pyrenean Shepherd Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Pyrenean Shepherd so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank180
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Pyrenean Shepherd With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Pyrenean Shepherd dog profile picture
OriginFrance flagFrance
Other Names
What other names does the Pyrenean Shepherd have?
Petit BergerPyr ShepPyrenees SheepdogBerger Des Pyrénées
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Pyrenean Shepherd Size and Weight

Size
Is a Pyrenean Shepherd small, medium or large dog?

How big do Pyrenean Shepherd get?

What is the average size of a Pyrenean Shepherd?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Pyrenean Shepherd weigh? How much should a Pyrenean Shepherd weight? What is the normal weight of a Pyrenean Shepherd? How much does a full-grown Pyrenean Shepherd weight?
15–32 pounds (7–15 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Pyrenean Shepherd?
15–32 pounds (7–15 kg)
Height
How tall is the Pyrenean Shepherd? Pyrenean Shepherd height:
15.5-18.5 inches (39-47 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Pyrenean Shepherd?
15.5-18.5 inches (43 cm)

Pyrenean Shepherd Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Pyrenean Shepherd puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Pyrenean Shepherd in the United States? How much money is a Pyrenean Shepherd?

Where to buy a Pyrenean Shepherd with a good pedigree?

$500-$800
If you choose to purchase the Pyrenean Shepherd, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Pyrenean Shepherd for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Pyrenean Shepherd gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Pyrenean Shepherd? How many Pyrenean Shepherd are there in the world?
Frequent: The Pyrenean Shepherd is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Pyrenean Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Pyrenean Shepherd? Is the Pyrenean Shepherd breed dumb or smart?
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Pyrenean Shepherd obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Pyrenean Shepherd ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Pyrenean Shepherd?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Pyrenean Shepherd good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Pyrenean Shepherd dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Pyrenean Shepherd can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Pyrenean Shepherd will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Pyrenean Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Pyrenean Shepherd have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
EnergeticTrainableWatchfulCleverDedicatedBossy
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Pyrenean Shepherd sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Pyrenean Shepherd dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Pyrenean Shepherd a good family dog?
High: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Petit Berger need? Pyrenean Shepherd social needs:
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Pyrenean Shepherd to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Pyrenean Shepherd roam?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Pyrenean Shepherd have high prey drive?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Pyrenean Shepherd Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Petit Berger bark?
A lot: Pyrenean Shepherd is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Pyrenean Shepherd good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Pyrenean Shepherd in an apartment?
Apartment-friendly dog the Pyrenean Shepherd breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Pyrenean Shepherd Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs don't adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't like moving from one place to another.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Pyrenean Shepherd be left alone? How long can you leave a Pyrenean Shepherd alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Pyrenean Shepherd Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Pyrenean Shepherd has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Pyrenean Shepherd? How much bite force does a Pyrenean Shepherd have? How strong is a Pyrenean Shepherd bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Pyrenean Shepherd bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Pyrenean Shepherd measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Pyrenean Shepherd is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Pyrenean Shepherd bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Pyrenean Shepherd bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Pyrenean Shepherd puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Pyrenean Shepherd, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Pyrenean Shepherd bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Pyrenean Shepherd can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Pyrenean Shepherd bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Petit Berger? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Pyrenean Shepherd? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Pyrenean Shepherd has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Pyrenean Shepherd do?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Pyrenean Shepherd dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Pyrenean Shepherd Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Pyrenean Shepherds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Pyrenean Shepherd breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Pyrenean Shepherd breed? Most common health risks of Pyrenean Shepherd:
Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationPatent Ductus ArteriosisProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Epilepsy
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Pyrenean Shepherd breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Pyrenean Shepherd see the vet?
Frequent
The Pyrenean Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs live? How old can a Pyrenean Shepherd be? What is the age limit of the Pyrenean Shepherd? How many years can the oldest Pyrenean Shepherd live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Pyrenean Shepherd?

How long is the lifespan of a Pyrenean Shepherd?

15-17 years
The average lifespan of Pyrenean Shepherd: 16 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Pyrenean Shepherd can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Pyrenean Shepherd Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Pyrenean Shepherd have? What is the activity level of the Pyrenean Shepherd?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Pyrenean Shepherd need? How much exercise do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs require per day?

Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises?

Pyrenean Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Pyrenean Shepherd breed need?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Pyrenean Shepherd Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Pyrenean Shepherd need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Pyrenean Shepherd breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Pyrenean Shepherd? How much food should I feed my Pyrenean Shepherd?
1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Pyrenean Shepherd risk for obesity:
Average: The Pyrenean Shepherd has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Pyrenean Shepherd weight regularly.

Pyrenean Shepherd Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Pyrenean Shepherd have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
RoughSmooth
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Pyrenean Shepherd coats?
BlackGray White Fawn Brindle
Grooming
How to groom the Pyrenean Shepherd and how often? How often should I take my Pyrenean Shepherd to the groomer?
Average: The Pyrenean Shepherd requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Pyrenean Shepherd, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Petit Berger? Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs shed a lot?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Pyrenean Shepherd need a bath? How often should you give a Pyrenean Shepherd a bath? Can I bathe my Pyrenean Shepherd every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Pyrenean Shepherd breed hypoallergenic?
No
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Pyrenean Shepherd has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Pyrenean Shepherd drool?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Pyrenean Shepherd could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Pyrenean Shepherd.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Pyrenean Shepherd Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs get along with other pets? Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Pyrenean Shepherd temperament with other people:
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Pyrenean Shepherd temperament with children:
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Pyrenean Shepherd breed live with a cat?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Pyrenean Shepherd good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Pyrenean Shepherd is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Pyrenean Shepherd breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Pyrenean Shepherd breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs good office canines? Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Petit Berger temperament with senior people? Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs good for elderly owners?
Pyrenean Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people.

Pyrenean Shepherd As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Pyrenean Shepherd be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a boat dog?

Not really

Pyrenean Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Pyrenean Shepherd be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Pyrenean Shepherd dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Pyrenean Shepherd Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Pyrenean Shepherd pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Pyrenean Shepherd breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Pyrenean Shepherd: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Pyrenean Shepherd have in a litter? How many puppies can the Pyrenean Shepherd breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Pyrenean Shepherd have? How many puppies can a Pyrenean Shepherd give birth to?
4 puppies

Pyrenean Shepherd Recognition

AKC Group
Is Pyrenean Shepherd recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2009 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Pyrenean Shepherd recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Pyrenean Shepherd breed?
American Kennel ClubFederation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainContinental Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Pyrenean Shepherd Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Pyrenean Shepherd breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Pyrenean Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Child Friendly: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Pyrenean Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people.
Cons
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Issues: Pyrenean Shepherds tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Hypoallergenic: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Adaptability: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs don't adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Dog Friendly: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Pyrenean Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

Pyrenean Shepherd History

The origins of the Pyrenean Shepherd are unknown, but they have been living in the Pyrenees Mountains in Southern France for a very long time. There have been many myths about this sheep herding breed, one of which says that they descended from native Pyrenean bears and foxes. Another myth suggests that they were the dog of Cro-Mangon people who created the famous Lascaux cave paintings. While this fact is not verified, according to archaeologists, they have found bones of small dogs in Neolithic fossil deposits. The region had also been transformed through overgrazing by 6000 BC, which shows that sheep and goat herding were very well developed back at that time. Throughout the centuries, transhumance herding has been the strength of the economy of High Pyrenees and this ancient lifestyle persists even into the 21st century as many Pyrenean Shepherd still herd sheep every day in the Pyrenees Mountains. Moreover, the dogs are mentioned several times in the medieval accounts of life in the Pyrenees as a constant companion because wherever the shepherd went, his dog went too. All this evidence suggests that this breed has been around for thousands of years, where it has been used as a sheepherder who guarded the flocks. The intelligent and adaptive nature of this breed is naturally suited for herding and many times only two shepherds could manage a flock of up to 1000 sheep.

Furthermore, a very important factor in developing and maintaining this breed type throughout the centuries was that the pastoral industry relied only on two breeds, the Great Pyrenees who guarded the flocks against attacks by bears and wolfs, and the Pyrenean Shepherd who was used for herding as mentioned above. This way the dogs were protected and the smaller size was valued as they were quicker, needed less food that allowed the shepherd to keep more individual dogs, and it also meant more sheep on the market.

According to researchers, the population of Pyrenean Shepherds had always been high across centuries, but they have always focused on selective breeding to avoid any genetic defects and maintain the breed type and its working ability. This also led to the stabilization of two varieties, that are now independently bred. One of them is the Rough-Faced which has a long coat and long hairs on the face, and the other one is the Smooth-Faced variety which is less furnished and has short hair on the face. By the 19th century, a few Pyrenean Shepherds found their way to the United States to herd flocks in the west, and some people believe that they contributed to the development of the Australian Shepherds. However, the breed was still mostly unknown to other parts of the world but gained recognition during World War I for their service. Perhaps hundreds of Pyrenean Shepherds gave their life for the cause as couriers, guards, and search and rescue dogs for the French military. After the war, like in all types, the number of dogs decreased and shepherds started working to save and rebuild the breed. The ‘Reunion des Amateurs des Chiens Phyrenees’ (RACP) was founded to preserve the breed, and this remained the French parent club. These dogs began to participate in herd trials and shows, and by 1923 an accurate standard for the breed was created in France. In the 1970s and 1980s, the breed was imported into the United States in greater numbers, but it wasn’t until 2009 that it was recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Rate The Pyrenean Shepherd Breed

Pyrenean Shepherd Comments, Reviews and Questions