Page 252 - ShowSight - February 2020

Berger Picard Q & A
“Most acquaintances do not recognize his breed, but are drawn to his handsome looks and fun personality. They inquire and are interested, and become enthusiastic lis- teners as I speak with passion about the history and characteristics of the Picard!”
DENISE DEAN
My name is Denise Dean and I have been involved in dogs since 1975 when I got my first OES. I have been active in the dog world since that time. I am a breeder and handler of three breeds: OES, BMD and now Berger Picards. I have finished over 150 champions, all owner-handled, in these breeds. I currently am approved to judge the Herding group, Working group and Non- Sporting group. A dog Groomer
by trade since 1970, I enjoy all breeds and love to find a great one in each. I feel that all judges should impart a positive and helpful attitude in the ring. One of the biggest thrills in Judging is finding a truly great dog and being able to reward it, no matter who is at the end of the lead.
I live out in the woods near Flagstaff, Arizona at 7,300 feet, we take long walks in the woods but really do not have time for any performance stuff.
Do I hope the breed’s will change or am I comfortable with the placement? Hopefully they will get somewhat more popular but we do no want them to go crazy and it’s not the breed for a lot of people especially first time dog owners.
Does the average person on the street recognize the breed? No, almost never—except once in a while from the Winn-Dixie movie. Although the breed’s a tremendously hard-working dog with great power and stamina, they’re highly valued as a companion. What qualities in the field also come in handy around the house? That statement is very wrong. They’re really not a hard, working dog, they’re very quiet in the house and much more a livestock guardian dog so not very active but just keeps an eye on everything. What about the breed makes them an ideal companion? They are a very primitive breed and a guard dog, not really a herding dog. Though they will herd and would give their life for you more like an Anatolian or Great Pyr in temperament. They need an owner that is smarter than them but not someone looking for an obedient dog,
as they like to think for themselves.
Are there any misconceptions about the breed I’d like to dis-
pel? That they are the cute, funny dogs as they look. They are really, very serious dogs and have their silly moments but are not a silly dog.
What special challenges do breeders face in our current econom- ic and social climate? Always breeding for a stable, healthy dog in any time or place.
At what age do I start to see definite signs of show-worthiness? It’s best to look at eight weeks and then wait until at least one year as they go through some odd growth stages.
The most important thing about the breed for a new judge to keep in mind? As a Judge remember that this is a rustic, working dog and should not be fluffy and pretty. Over-grooming is a prob- lem, they should move with grace and efficiency—no TRD would be right in any herding dog.
It is a moderate, normal dog in all ways, and temperament is always important but as a guard dog. Do not expect a silly, tail wag- ging dog but should stand and be good with the exam. Puppies can be shy, so give them a little room to grow up.
The best way to attract newcomers to my breed and to the sport? Be friendly and talk to anyone interested and return phone calls even if you do not have puppies and educate everyone you meet about the breed.
My ultimate goal for the breed? I would like to see them with a stable population worldwide and solid, good temperaments.
My favorite dog show memory is winning the National Spe- cialty in 1988 with my own, breeder owner handled Bernese Mountain Dog.
I’d also like to share that anyone interested in the breed should meet some and find a breeder that is a teacher at heart and will help you in all subjects. They are a wonderful breed but very primitive, somewhat like living with a wolf and you have to be the leader of the pack to have a happy, stable dog.
LAURA VAN FAASEN
250 • ShowSight Magazine, February 2020
© Amanda Torres
My name is Laura and my Berger Picard, Jules of Ballerine’s Picards and I live in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I’ve always been a ‘nature girl’ and enjoy being outdoors, so my five year old ‘Sunny’ and I are perfect fit for one another. We both enjoy walks and hikes through the woods and to go camping. I purchased a small Scamp travel trailer on Sunny’s second birth- day and it’s one of his favorite things. From what I can tell, he loves it because it’s like we are both sleeping in the same crate together and he can totally
chill out. Well, maybe it’s also because the cat stays home and he has me all to himself!
I am comfortable with the ranking of the Berger Picard, although I will not be surprised if they become more popular. They are a wonderful breed and can fit into a variety of lifestyles.
Most acquaintances do not recognize his breed, but are drawn to his handsome looks and fun personality. They inquire and are interested, and become enthusiastic listeners as I speak with pas- sion about the history and characteristics of the Picard! Very often, people will comment on Sunny’s patience and mellowness as we converse.