Pyrenean Shepherd
also known as Petit Berger, Berger Des Pyrénées, Pyrenees Sheepdog, Pyr Shep
History
The Pyrenean Shepherd, also known as the Berger des Pyrénées or the Pastou, is a herding dog breed that boasts a long and storied history. Its origins can be traced back to the 14th century, when it was developed in the Pyrenees Mountains by shepherds in need of a dog that could help them herd and protect their flocks of sheep.
Bred to be smaller and more agile than its larger cousin, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, this breed was created to navigate the steep and rocky terrain of the Pyrenees with ease. Its intelligence and trainability made it an invaluable asset to shepherds, who used it for a variety of tasks such as herding, guarding and even as a pack animal to transport goods.
In 1911, the Pyrenean Shepherd was officially recognized as a breed by the French Kennel Club (Société Centrale Canine). And later it was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2006 and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2018.
Breed Information
Is Pyrenean Shepherd a purebred?
Purebred
How do you pronounce the Pyrenean Shepherd name? How do you say Pyrenean Shepherds?
pahyuhr neen
What were Pyrenean Shepherds originally used for?
Sheep Herding
How Long Do Pyrenean Shepherds Live? What is average life expectancy for a Pyrenean Shepherd? How long can Pyrenean Shepherds live?
15-17 years
The average Pyrenean Shepherd lifespan is somewhere between 15-17 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.
Pyrenean Shepherd Height & Weight
How big is a full grown Pyrenean Shepherd?
| Height | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months | |
| Male | 15-21 inches (38.1 - 53.3 cm) | 21.5 inches (54.6 cm) | 22.5 inches (57.2 cm) | 23.5 inches (59.7 cm) |
| Female | 15-21 inches (38.1 - 53.3 cm) | 18.5 inches (47 cm) | 19.5 inches (49.5 cm) | 20.5 inches (52.1 cm) |
| Weight | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months | |
| Male | 15-30 pounds (7 - 14 kg) | 57.5 pounds (26 kg) | 62.5 pounds (28 kg) | 72.5 pounds (33 kg) |
| Female | 15-30 pounds (7 - 14 kg) | 52.5 pounds (24 kg) | 57.5 pounds (26 kg) | 67.5 pounds (31 kg) |
Do Pyrenean Shepherds get fat easily?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.
Are Pyrenean Shepherds Hypoallergenic?
No
Unfortunately, the Pyrenean Shepherd is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
What is a Pyrenean Shepherd personality? What are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs best known for?
Bossy
Dedicated
Trainable
Clever
Energetic
Watchful
Are Pyrenean Shepherds heavy shedders? How Much Does a Pyrenean Shepherd Shed?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Pyrenean Shepherd. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.
What is the watchdog ability of a Pyrenean Shepherd dog?
Pyrenean Shepherds are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Pyrenean Shepherd is going to make sure everyone knows about it.
Breed History
Where do Pyrenean Shepherds come from?
France
What are Pyrenean Shepherds descended from?
Shepherd Dog
What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Pyrenean Shepherd breed?
American Kennel Club
Continental Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
United Kennel Club
When were Pyrenean Shepherds first bred? How old is the Pyrenean Shepherd breed?
6000 BC
What Breed Group is a Pyrenean Shepherd?
Herding (AKC:2009 & UKC)
Pyrenean Shepherd Appearance
How many puppies can a Pyrenean Shepherd have in a litter? How many puppies can a Pyrenean Shepherd have in her first litter?
15-17 puppies per pregnancy
A Pyrenean Shepherd can have a litter of 15-17 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are a breed that can have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments. They tend to be more comfortable in familiar and consistent surroundings.
Pyrenean Shepherd Health Issues
Do Pyrenean Shepherds have a lot of health problems?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a breed of dog that is known to have a higher frequency of health issues compared to other breeds. These issues can range from minor to serious, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential in order to identify and address any potential problems as early as possible.
What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Pyrenean Shepherd?
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Pyrenean Shepherds?
Patellar Luxation
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Collie Eye Anomaly
What are the occasional tests recommended for Pyrenean Shepherd breed?
Heart
Hip & Eye
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Pyrenean Shepherd Needs and Activities
Do Pyrenean Shepherds have a lot of energy?
Pyrenean Shepherds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.
Do Pyrenean Shepherds need socialization? How social are Pyrenean Shepherds?
Pyrenean Shepherds have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.
How much exercise should Pyrenean Shepherds get?
The Pyrenean Shepherd needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments
How much sleep should a Pyrenean Shepherd have? Do Pyrenean Shepherds sleep a lot?
Pyrenean Shepherds dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.
Does a Pyrenean Shepherd drool a lot?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.
How much does it bark?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.
Do Pyrenean Shepherds exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?
These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.
Are Pyrenean Shepherds mouthy?
What is the likelihood of a Pyrenean Shepherd running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?
Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs have a high prey drive?
What level of grooming should be provided for a Pyrenean Shepherd?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a breed of dog that requires an average amount of grooming effort.
Costs
Pyrenean Shepherd Characteristic
How intelligent is a Pyrenean Shepherd?
The Pyrenean Shepherd have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Pyrenean Shepherds lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.
How sensitive is a Pyrenean Shepherd dog?
This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.
Are Pyrenean Shepherd dogs affectionate?
Do Pyrenean Shepherd do well in apartments? Are Pyrenean Shepherds good indoor dogs?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is an apartment-friendly dog breed. They can do perfectly well in apartments providing they are sufficiently exercised and taken out and about as part of their owner's daily lifestyle.
Are Pyrenean Shepherds good with kids? Are Pyrenean Shepherds good around children?
Pyrenean Shepherds are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Are Pyrenean Shepherds good for elderly?
Are Pyrenean Shepherds good with cats? How friendly Pyrenean Shepherds are toward cats?
Pyrenean Shepherds are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,
Do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs? Are Pyrenean Shepherds OK with other dogs?
Pyrenean Shepherds are below average dog friendly dogs. Pyrenean Shepherd dogs may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with,
How do Pyrenean Shepherd dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?
Are Pyrenean Shepherds friendly with strangers?
Pyrenean Shepherds are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Pyrenean Shepherds are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Pyrenean Shepherds will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.
Do Pyrenean Shepherds like to play? Are Pyrenean Shepherds playful?
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Pyrenean Shepherd is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.
Are Pyrenean Shepherd easily trained?
Pyrenean Shepherd dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Apartment Friendly
The Pyrenean Shepherd breed is an ideal pet for apartments. - Affectionate
The Pyrenean Shepherd is known to be affectionate and loyal towards its owners. - Versatile
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a versatile breed that excels at herding, agility, and obedience.
Cons
- Not suitable for office environment
Pyrenean Shepherds may struggle to adapt to an office environment. - Not Hypoallergenic
The non-hypoallergenic nature of Pyrenean Shepherds can lead to allergic reactions in people prone to allergies. - Barking
Pyrenean Shepherds are a breed that tends to be loud. - High energy
The Pyrenean Shepherd has a lot of energy and requires regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
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