Do Berger Picards Shed A Lot? | Grooming Guide for Berger Picard Shedding

The Berger Picard is a distinctive French herding dog known for its rustic, wiry coat and lively personality. If you’re considering adding one to your family, you might wonder, do Berger Picards shed a lot? The short answer is that Berger Picards shed a moderate amount. Their wire coat is harsh and crisp with minimal undercoat, which means they shed year-round but not excessively. This article will explore their shedding tendencies, grooming needs, and practical tips to keep your home clean and your dog comfortable.

Understanding the Berger Picard’s Shedding Tendencies

Berger Picards have a wire coat that is naturally weather-resistant and somewhat coarse to the touch. Unlike many double-coated breeds, they have a minimal undercoat, which generally means less heavy shedding. However, they do experience steady shedding throughout the year rather than intense seasonal blowouts.

Because of this coat type, their shedding is considered moderate—more than a hypoallergenic breed but less than many other herding dogs with thick undercoats. You might notice loose hairs around the home, especially on furniture and clothing, but it’s usually manageable with routine grooming.

Practical Advice for Berger Picard Owners

To keep shedding under control and maintain the health of your Berger Picard’s coat, regular grooming is essential. Here are some tips:

Brushing: Brush your Berger Picard at least twice a week using a slicker brush or a pin brush. These tools help remove loose hairs and prevent tangles.
Stripping: Occasional hand-stripping (removing dead hair by hand) can help maintain the coat’s texture and reduce shedding.
Bathing: Bathe your dog every 6-8 weeks or as needed with a mild dog shampoo to keep the coat clean without stripping natural oils.
Check for debris: Their wiry coat can trap dirt and leaves, so regular checks help keep them comfortable.

Training and Management Strategies to Handle Shedding

Managing shedding is easier when you have a routine. Here’s a simple 3-step plan:

Establish a grooming schedule: Set specific days for brushing and coat maintenance to stay consistent.
Create a designated grooming area: This helps contain loose hair and makes cleanup easier.
Use appropriate grooming tools: Invest in a slicker brush, pin brush, and a grooming rake designed for wire coats.

Additionally, teaching your Berger Picard to enjoy grooming sessions will reduce stress for both of you.

Common Shedding Scenarios and Solutions

Loose hairs on furniture: Use a lint roller or pet hair remover brush regularly.
Shedding during seasonal changes: Even though shedding is moderate year-round, you might notice slightly more hair in spring; increase brushing frequency during this time.
Coat matting: Prevent mats by brushing regularly and addressing knots early.
Allergies in family members: While not hypoallergenic, the Berger Picard’s shedding is manageable; use air purifiers and clean floors often.

Conclusion

Berger Picards shed moderately due to their wire, low-undercoat fur. Their shedding is consistent throughout the year, requiring regular brushing two or more times weekly to manage loose hair. With proper grooming tools and a steady routine, you can keep your Berger Picard’s coat healthy and your home relatively free from stray hairs. This breed’s unique coat and charming personality make the grooming effort well worth it.

Embrace the Berger Picard’s rustic charm and enjoy a manageable shedding routine that fits your lifestyle!