Pyrenean Shepherd

Born in the rugged French Pyrenees, the Pyrenean Shepherd has worked sheep for centuries. Small, fast, and tireless, they zipped around flocks while larger guardians deterred predators. Formal breed development and written standards emerged in France in the early 20th century; the breed later spread to performance circles worldwide thanks to its phenomenal athleticism and biddability. Today, Pyrenean Shepherds thrive as versatile sport dogs and devoted family companions while retaining keen herding instinct.

A lean, sinewy, quick-moving herder available in two coat varieties (Rough-Faced and Smooth-Faced).

• Weight: 15–30 lbs (male & female)
• Height: 15.5–21 in (varies by variety)
• Coat Type: Double coat; Rough-Faced has demi-long to long, tousled hair; Smooth-Faced has shorter, closer coat with feathering
• Coat Colors: Fawn, brindle, gray, charcoal, black, merle (blue or fawn), with or without white markings
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Lithe, athletic outline; triangular prick or semi-prick ears; expressive almond eyes; high energy “on-tiptoes” movement

‍

Moderate maintenance focused on keeping the coat free of tangles and debris.

• Brushing: Rough-Faced: 2–3×/week; Smooth-Faced: 1–2×/week; increase during seasonal shedding
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or after muddy adventures
• De-tangling: Check armpits, behind ears, and breeches weekly
• Ear Cleaning: Weekly, more often for active outdoor dogs
• Nail Trimming: Every 3–4 weeks
• Shedding: Moderate; heavier during spring/fall “coat blows”

‍

Built for speed and stamina—this is an athlete in a compact frame.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes, including off-leash zooms in secure areas
• Ideal Activities: Agility, herding, flyball, hiking, canicross, disc, obedience
• Suitability: Best for active households; can adapt to apartments only with robust daily exercise and enrichment

‍

Brilliant, sensitive, and eager—responds to upbeat, varied sessions.

• Approach: Reward-based training; keep sessions short, fun, and fast-paced
• Socialization: Early, positive exposure to people/places/dogs to temper natural reserve
• Channeling Drive: Give “jobs”—trick chains, scent games, herding lessons, agility sequences
• Impulse Skills: Practice settle on mat, calm greetings, and recall away from motion
• Handler Note: Avoid repetitive drills or harsh corrections—these can shut the dog down

‍

Fuel the athlete while keeping a lean silhouette.

• Food Type: High-quality kibble or balanced fresh diet formulated for small/medium active breeds
• Daily Quantity: ~1.5–2.5 cups total, split into two meals (adjust for workload)
• Feeding Schedule: Twice daily; small third snack on heavy training days if needed
• Diet Advice: Prioritize protein quality; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for joints/coat; monitor body condition score monthly

‍

Find preservation breeders who prove health and working aptitude—or consider sport-savvy rescues.

• Breeders: Choose CKC/FCI/AKC-affiliated breeders who provide hip/patella/eye clearances and discuss temperament/work goals
• Contracts & Socialization: Look for early puppy socialization plans and return-to-breeder clauses
• Adoption: Check herding-breed and sport-dog rescues; ask agility clubs about rehoming networks
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; regional herding clubs in ON/BC/QC; Agility Association of Canada listings for local clubs

‍

Generally robust, with a long working lifespan, but screening is wise.

• Common Issues: Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye disorders (incl. PRA), epilepsy (in some lines), dental tartar
• Sports Considerations: Soft-tissue strains if over-jumped; warm-ups/cool-downs recommended
• Life Expectancy: 12–16 years
• Suggested Health Testing: Hips, patellas, ophthalmologist (CAER) exams; consider genetic testing where available

‍

Are Pyrenean Shepherds good apartment dogs?
With serious daily exercise and training, yes—otherwise their energy and voice can overwhelm small spaces.

Do Pyrenean Shepherds shed a lot?
Moderately year-round, heavier seasonally; Rough-Faced coats trap loose hair until brushed.

How much exercise does a Pyrenean Shepherd need?
Plan on 60–90 minutes daily plus brain work (tricks, scent games, agility drills).

Are Pyrenean Shepherds good with kids and other pets?
They’re affectionate with family; early socialization is key. Herding nips at heels can occur—teach boundaries.

Are Pyrenean Shepherds easy to train?
Very—provided training is upbeat, varied, and fair. They dislike harsh methods and boring repetition.

Do Pyrenean Shepherds bark a lot?
They’re alert communicators. Teach a reliable “quiet” and give outlets for energy to reduce nuisance barking.

Are Pyrenean Shepherds hypoallergenic?
No.

Can a first-time owner handle a Pyrenean Shepherd?
Yes, if committed to daily activity, classes, and enrichment; they’re intense compared with many companion breeds.

‍