Berger Picard
The Berger Picard is described by the AKC as loyal, good-natured, observant, a member of the Herding Group, originally from France.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 23.5-25.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 50-70 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Good-Natured / Observant [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 166 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bred to work in the fields, the Berger Picard is active and athletic, with plenty of stamina and drive. This high-energy breed needs lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation. The Picard must have a good outlet for all his energy, or he may become destructive and unhappy. [1]
Grooming
The Berger Picard's double coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat for insulation covered by a shaggy, wiry, waterproof topcoat. During shedding season, brushing every day or two with a rake and a slicker brush will remove the dead hair before it ends up on the floor and furniture. The rest of the year, a Picard only needs to be brushed once a month. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Berger Picards are generally a healthy breed. Like all breeds there may be some health issues. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Berger Picards are healthy dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Berger Picard in 2015. [1]
- It ranked No. 166 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Picardy, Picard.” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Berger Picards live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-13 years.
How big does a Berger Picard get?
AKC breed information lists height 23.5-25.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female) and weight 50-70 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Berger Picard?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Berger Picard, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.