Character & Temperament

The Berger des Pyrenees is a herding dog through and through. Its primary instinct is to herd and guard flocks, and it is known to be used in this capacity even today. Since he was originally bred to herd sheep in the mountains, he is a very agile and active dog. He is not only physically but also mentally very active and therefore needs sufficient activity and challenges. He is an extremely intelligent dog and learns very quickly. You could even say that he's sometimes too smart for his own good! You will find that he has a curiosity and insight that can sometimes get him into trouble. The Berger des Pyrenees is exceptionally loyal and will form a very close bond with his family. He is often a bit reserved around strangers, but with his family he is extremely loving and affectionate. This herding dog is very alert and has a strong protective instinct, making him a good guard dog. Although he is very affectionate, he is also a fairly independent dog. He is used to making decisions when tending herds, and he often carries this independence into the home environment. It is important to know that he may not always be as obedient as you would like. The Berger des Pyrenees has high energy and is always ready to play and work. It's important that you're willing to give him plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. He loves to run, play and explore and will be happy when he has a task to do. In terms of hunting behavior, the Pyrenees Berger can sometimes show a strong prey drive. It is important to teach him how to behave around small animals. As for staying alone, the Pyrenees Berger can learn to stay alone, but he should not be left without activity or company for long periods of time. As a highly intelligent dog, he can become bored easily, and boredom can lead to undesirable behavior.

What Awaits You

Pyr Sheps see the world through dark, almond-shaped eyes that convey an alert and shrewd expression. The Pyrenean Shepherd is a tireless herding dog descended from the ancient Pyrenean Shepherds, enthusiastic, mischievous and intelligent. The tough and sinewy Pyr Sheps are available in “rough-faced” and “smooth-faced” coat variants.

Housing & Care

The Berger des Pyrenees is an active dog and is best suited to a home with a garden or in rural areas. He can be kept in the city if he gets enough exercise, but he is not a typical city dog. He is good with children, but it is important to note that as a herding dog, he may sometimes try to herd them. He can also get along with cats and other pets as long as he is properly socialized.

Training & Education

The Berger des Pyrenees is an intelligent dog that loves to learn. He is good at dog sports such as agility, obedience and herding. It is important to note that this breed can have a tendency to become a ball junkie, so it is important to dose play with the ball. Since he is an active dog, he needs a lot of activity, but you should be careful not to overwhelm him. He should also learn to develop frustration tolerance and impulse control. Since the Berger des Pyrenees is a herding dog, it is important to take his natural instincts into account. He may be tempted to guard things, so it's important to offer him alternatives and keep him occupied in a way that meets both his physical and mental needs.

Nutrition & Care

A balanced diet is crucial for the health and well-being of your Berger des Pyrenees. He needs a diet rich in high-quality proteins and fats, as well as the right amount of vitamins and minerals. Since this breed is active, the diet should also support their energy needs. When it comes to grooming, the Berger des Pyrenees has an undercoat that keeps him warm in the cooler months. In Germany he gets along well with the climate. The coat should be brushed regularly to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. It sheds moderately all year round, but more intensely during the transition period.