Pyrenean Sheepdog

The Pyrenean Sheepdog is the small, wiry herding dog that worked the French Pyrenees alongside the great white guardian — and it is the smallest French herding breed.

History

The traditional pairing in the Pyrenees was two dogs: the Great Pyrenees guarded the flock, this one moved it. It is extremely fast and light for the mountains. It served as a messenger and search dog in the First World War, and a Pyrenean Shepherd has held the record as the most decorated dog of that conflict.

Temperament

The breed is known for being intensely energetic, alert and wary of strangers, deeply attached to one person and mistrustful in a way that needs early socialising rather than correcting.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and mental work; it is not a dog for an idle household. Coats come rough-faced and smooth-faced, both needing modest care. Training must be motivating and gentle.

Health

Generally healthy and long-lived, with hip dysplasia and epilepsy among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.