Group 1 · Sheepdogs & cattle dogs
Pyrenean Sheepdog
The Pyrenean Sheepdog is the smallest French herding dog: a lightly built, lightning-fast sheepdog that comes in a long-haired and a smooth-faced variety. It is lively, clever and closely bonded to one person.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Pyrenese Herdershond – Smooth Pyrenese Herdershond – langhaar by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 1 examination:
- 1 X-ray examination
The breeding programme also recommends 1 further examination.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (1)
-
Hip dysplasia
X-ray once at least 1 year (laxity views: at least 6 months)
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: VD view and laxity view (Vezzoni or PennHIP)
Recommended examinations (1)
-
Patellar luxation (PT)
Kneecap examination once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- palpation of the kneecap
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Pyrenese Herdershond – Smooth Pyrenese Herdershond – langhaar, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 08/09/2025.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Hip dysplasia. The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Patellar luxation (PT). A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Pyrenean Sheepdog needs plenty of daily exercise and a job, such as herding, agility or other dog sports. Its coat needs a weekly brush and more during moulting.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- What are the results of both parent dogs for Hip dysplasia?
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
This sheepdog is clever, alert and very focused on its owner, and can be watchful with strangers. It needs structure, socialisation and enough challenge; without work it can become restless and bark a lot.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
