Pyrenean Shepherd picture
Pyrenean Shepherd

Berger Des Pyrénées, Petit Berger, Pyrenees Sheepdog, Pyr Shep

Overview

The Pyrenean Shepherd or "Pyr Shep" has herded sheep in the Pyrenees Mountains of Southern France for centuries. The breed comes in two coat types - Rough-Faced and Smooth-Faced. Colors include shades of fawn from tan to copper, as well as charcoal to silver to pearl grey. Although tentative with strangers, the Pyrenean Shepherd has a very lively, cheerful disposition, and is a superb canine athlete who excels at agility and other dog sports.

Still very close to their working roots, The Pyrenean Shepherd possess the traits of superior herding dogs: intelligence, independence, courage, vigor, and versatility. Keeping one cooped up and alone, with nothing to do, will not only lead to problem behaviors, it’s a waste of a remarkable animal. The Pyrenean Shepherd bonds intensely with their special person, sometimes to the exclusion of all others. Their alertness and a natural wariness of strangers make them excellent watchdogs. They do best with owners who can match their energy and devotion.

Size Medium
Height 15.5-18.5 inches (39-47 cm)
Weight 15–32 pounds (7–15 kg)
Lifespan 15-17 years
Colors Black Brindle Fawn Gray White
Origin France Spain
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

The Pyre can survive in any amount of space given to it. It is the amount of mental and physical stimulation that really makes a difference.

Good With Children

Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. It is also shy toward strangers.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

This breed has endless stamina and needs daily exercise and training in order to remain happy and well behaved. You can mix it up: take a long hike one day, go swimming the next, go for jog, just take a long walk, play fetch, etc. The Pyre is happy when it can do something fun with its owner.

Trainability

Moderately Easy Training: Training won't require too much attention and effort, though it won't be easier than other breeds. Expect results to come gradually.

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

Moderate Maintenance: Pyrenean Shepherds need only a weekly brush, as well as regular checks for burrs or mats, to keep their coat in good condition.

Shedding

Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner.

Vocalization/Barking

Frequent

Pyrenean Shepherd Pictures