Pyrenean Shepherd: temperament, size, care and health

About the Pyrenean Shepherd

The Pyrenean Shepherd is a small, light herding dog from southern France, standing about 15 to 19.5 inches at the shoulder. It is lean and wiry, with a triangular head, a tousled expression and an agile build made for steep ground. There are two varieties: the rough-haired type, with a long, harsh coat that can appear tousled or flat, and the smooth-faced type, with a shorter coat on the face and fringes on the legs. Colors include fawn, merle, black and brindle.

The breed was developed to handle sheep in the mountains, where it needed to run fast, turn instantly and work independently. Few dogs are as intense for their size. Pyrenean Shepherds are rare in the United States but have a loyal following among sport competitors and herding enthusiasts.

Temperament and family life

The Pyrenean Shepherd is devoted to its family, active in all it does and wary of strangers. It watches the world with great attention, and it has a quick reaction to sudden changes. Without early, generous socialization, it can become fearful or reactive. It also barks, often, in a high voice, to announce anything out of the ordinary.

With sensible older children the breed can be a lively playmate, but a young Pyr Shep may nip and chase because of herding instinct, and it can be too intense for toddlers. It usually gets along with other dogs, though it can be pushy. The breed attaches closely to its people and dislikes being left alone, and a lonely dog tends to bark, pace and become destructive.

Exercise and training

This is an exceptionally active dog. A Pyrenean Shepherd needs vigorous daily exercise, such as running, fetch and frisbee, as well as training and a job. Agility, herding, flyball, obedience and scent work fit its abilities. Short walks alone will not satisfy it.

It is quick, sensitive and eager to learn. Rewards and calm consistency produce the best results, while harsh handling can make a nervous dog worse. Teaching a quiet command, a settle routine and calm greetings is important from an early age. Given work and attention, it can be a delightful partner, and without them it will find its own occupations.

Grooming and shedding

Grooming is simpler than the coat suggests. The rough-haired variety needs brushing about once a week to prevent mats, while the smooth-faced needs even less. The harsh texture sheds dirt, and trimming or stripping is not required. Both varieties shed a moderate amount, with a heavier seasonal change.

Bathe only occasionally. Keep the nails short, clean the ears and brush the teeth. Check around the face and feet for burrs and tangles after outdoor activity.

Health

The Pyrenean Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with a long lifespan, though several conditions are known. Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation affect some dogs, and breeders screen for both. Progressive retinal atrophy and other inherited eye diseases are watched for with eye exams. Epilepsy has been reported. The breed is rare, so the gene pool is limited, and choosing a breeder who tests widely is wise.

This is general information, and a veterinarian is the person to ask about a particular dog.

History

The breed is generally traced to the Pyrenees mountains of France, where shepherds relied on small, hardy dogs to manage flocks, while larger dogs guarded against predators. The Pyrenean Shepherd became better known in the early twentieth century, and it served in the First World War as a messenger and search dog, as the story is usually told. It reached the United States later and was admitted to the American Kennel Club's Herding Group in 2009.

Is the Pyrenean Shepherd right for you?

A Pyrenean Shepherd suits an experienced and energetic owner who wants an agile sport partner and can give it hours of activity and training each day. It is a poor match for a first-time owner, a quiet household or anyone away from home for long stretches.

For a larger herder with a similar drive, look at the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie. The Mudi and Pumi are similar in size and intensity.