Here are some common questions we get asked about Picards on a regular basis. We’ll be adding more as time progresses.
Q: Are Berger Picards good with cats?
A: My answer would be, even if grown up with cats, a Picard still holds the potential to chase and possibly hurt a cat.
Our Farrah has grown up with cats but if a cat runs she will take chase and has had our cat down before. Idle and Farrah have both chased our cat up a tree as well. So I wouldn’t leave a Picard in a room alone with a cat just in case.
Q: Do Berger Picards shed?
A: The answer is YES, they do shed. Their undercoat requires a brushing every so often just to pull out the dead hairs and minimize shedding during certain times.
The Picards coat is also like teflon, nothing sticks. So if your Picard goes out and plays in a mud puddle then dries and you let them in the house, prepare the duster because a good shake gets rid of the dried on mud and releases it upon your house.
Q: What are the common health concerns associated with the breed?
A: The Berger Picard’s common health issues are PRA, hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, heart murmur, and reproduction issues. More on these issues can be read about on picards.us.
I will say though, that hip dysplasia doesn’t affect this breed as it does many of the heavier breeds. The Picard’s light build helps alleviate the strain of weight on the hips. I’ve known a dog going into his teens who is considered mildly dysplastic in both hips and you’d never know it if you didn’t view his x-rays.
Q: What vaccinations etc do the puppies get while in your care?
A: Puppies are vaccinated twice for parvo/distemper, microhipped, dewormed regularly, & vet checked at 8 weeks of age before going home. They also are litter trained to get a jump start on potty training.
Q: Are your puppies registered?
A: Yes, they are registered with the AKC (American Kennel Club) & the UKC (United Kennel Club)