The Pyrenean Shepherds were once virtually unknown outside of France. It was only when one member of the Pyrenean Shepherd breed became one of the winners in the World Agility Championship in 2003 that international interest began picking up.
The Pyrenean Shepherd's Behavior
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Source: Wikipedia.
Recommended for: pet, working dog
The Pyrenean Shepherd dog breed is a miniature sheepdog. In fact, it is the smallest. Despite their small size, Pyrenean Shepherds are still sheepdogs through and through and thus also possess the cleverness and energy natural to all sheepdogs. They tend to stick to one person and would willingly follow that person around to help out in any way. They are sensitive to their human families' needs and their surroundings. In fact, this sensitivity can be carried to extremes and can make puppies too shy or too aggressive. Frequent socialization while young will help counter this.
Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.
The Pyrenean Shepherd's Physical Characteristics
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Here are some of the characteristics of the Pyrenean Shepherd breed as determined by the Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America's published breed standard.
- Size: males 15 1/2 - 18 1/2 inches; females 15 - 18 inches
- Coat: long or semi-long, harsh, minimal undercoat
- Color: fawn, tan to copper, gray shades, brindle, black
- Eyes: almond-shaped, dark brown
- Ears: short, wide-based, set on top of head
- Muzzle: straight, bit shorter than skull's, wedge shape
- Nose: black
- Tail: natural bob or long, should follow slope of croupe if long
The Pyrenean Shepherd's Origins and History
Pyrenean Shepherd puppies for sale, Pyrenean local dog breeders
Source: Wikipedia.
Country/Region of Origin: France
Original purpose: herding
Name: also known as Berger des Pyrenees, Petit Berger, and Pyrenees Sheepdog
Historical notes: Pyrenean Shepherd dogs served well during the First World War in the capacity of couriers, search and rescue, watchdogs, and company mascots. Afterwards they became popular as pets.