The Short-Faced Pyrenean Shepherd Dog is a variety of the Long-Haired Pyrenean Shepherd Dog, but the International Cynological Federation considers the two to be separate breeds. This dog has almost the same build as the other variety, the Longhaired Shepherd, but is a bit larger, proportionate, and has a slightly different coat.
These dogs are very active and familiar with their own but due to their watchdog nature they tend to be territorial which is why good socialization will be required so this dog knows how to behave as well. behave with the rest of his companions, humans, other animals and his environment in general.
If you are interested in adopting a short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd and you don't know its characteristics, continue reading this breed sheet from PlanèteAnimal and discover all the information necessary for its happiness. !
Origin
- Europe
- France
FCI Nomenclature
- Group I
Physical Characteristics
- End
- Proportional
Size
- Average
Height
- 45-55
Adult Weight
- 10-25
Life expectancy
- 12-14
Recommended physical activity
- Average
Character
- Very loyal
- Smart
- Active
Ideal for
- Shepherd
- Sports
Hair type
- Long
- End
Origin of the Short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd
Like other breeds of Pyrenean Sheepdogs such as the Basque Shepherd or the Gos d'Atura, the smooth-faced Pyrenean Shepherds have a little-known history. However, they are known to have lived in the French Pyrenees for centuries, where they work as orchard dogs. During the 18th and 19th centuries, these dogs were highly valued by horse traders and cattle herders, as well as World War I servicemen for their work as messenger dogs.
The blue merle variety appears to have been one of the ancestors of today's Australian Shepherd Dog as they were used between the 1940s and 1070s in the Western Range Association.
Today, some of these dogs continue to guide and herd herds in the French mountains, but they are increasingly being adopted as pets. Even so, the breed is little known around the world and only enjoys some popularity in its native France, but its success in agility championships and other canine sports has made it increasingly famous.
Physical characteristics of the Short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd
According to the FCI breed standard, Short-Faced Pyrenean Shepherds are slightly larger than their closest relatives, the Long-Haired Pyrenean Shepherds. This is, however, debatable because, although the FCI considers them to be two biologically distinct breeds, they are the same breed of dog.In any case, the height at the withers of males is 40-54 centimeters, while that of females is 40-52 centimeters. The weight of these dogs, although not stated in the breed standard, usually ranges from 7 to 15 kilograms.
The Short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd is slender and of medium height, but unlike the Long-haired Shepherd, its body is square and proportionate, since the length from the buttock to the shoulder is equal to the height at the tourniquet.
The head of these dogs is triangular and its nose is black. His eyes, slightly almond shaped, are dark brown, except in dogs with blue coats mixed with black, where they can be of different colors. Its ears are triangular and short, hanging on either side of the head or partially erect.
The Pyrenean Shepherd's tail is not very long and is hooked at the distal end. In some dogs, it is fortunately cut off, this cruel practice is falling more and more into disuse.
The Pyrenean Shepherd's coat is moderately long, reaching 6 to 7 centimeters above the neck and withers, and 4 to 5 centimeters above the midline of the back. They have short, fine hair on their heads, which clearly distinguishes this variety from other sheepdogs.
Character of the Pyrenean Shepherd with a clean face
These Pyrenean Sheepdogs are very enterprising, active, easy-going, intelligent, and loyal to their family, but they tend to form particularly close bonds with one person.
Because of their tutelary and protective nature, these dogs tend to be stubborn and territorial. It is therefore important to socialize them from a young age so that they are able to relate well with humans, other dogs and their environment in the future. Even with good socialization, these dogs tend to be reserved around strangers, but they tend to be very affectionate with their family.
Although Pyrenean Sheepdogs have been used as working dogs, if properly cared for they can make excellent pets. In addition to having to give them lots of exercise, you have to recognize and accept that they are not very sociable dogs and you should not force them to be affectionate with everyone.
Caring for a Shaved-faced Pyrenean Shepherd
The coat of this breed is not difficult to maintain and weekly brushing is sufficient to avoid tangles, remove dead hair and prevent skin problems. Frequent baths are not a good idea as they wash away the natural oils that protect his coat. It is therefore best to bathe them only when really necessary.
The amount of exercise and companionship these dogs need is considerable, but not excessive. In addition to the daily walks that all dogs should take, it is important that these sheepdogs get more exercise, so we advise you to enroll him in a dog sport.
Training and education of the Pyrenean Shepherd with a clean face
" When trained using positive methods, these sheepdogs excel. However, like all other breeds, they do not respond well to traditional training methods that use punishment to correct bad behavior."
That's why, in order to educate a Pyrenean Shepherd, we must do it through positive reinforcement and never use punishment or any physical mistreatment as teaching tools.
To begin training this breed of dog, we will start by teaching him basic obedience commands and practicing them for about 10 minutes a day.
He alth of the Pyrenean Shepherd with a clean face
Although the short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd is not really prone to hereditary diseases, he should receive the same veterinary care as any other dog.You will therefore need to take him to the vet every 6 months to be examined and to follow his vaccination schedule.
Similarly, after each walk in the countryside, you must absolutely check that no parasite has lodged in their coat. You should also deworm them regularly.
Pictures of the Pyrenean Shepherd with a clean face
