Originating in southeast France, the berger de Savoie was used as working dog on dairy farms in Savoy. Farmers used these hardy dogs to guard their farms and fields, pull carts, haul milk and herd sheep, goats and cattle. Currently, these dogs are rare, and the breed is on the verge of extinction. Since 2002, a group of dog fanciers, farmers and veterinarians has been working to restore the berger de Savoie.
The berger de Savoie is a hardy, medium-sized dog with a light to medium build. The average adult measures about 21 inches at the shoulder. Like most shepherds, members of this breed have long, thick tails and are well muscled. These dogs have half-perked ears, broad heads and tapered muzzles. Like most mountain breeds, the Savoyard has a dense coat. Acceptable coat colors include merle, black and tan, sable and tricolor.
Personality
Members of this breed are intelligent and loyal. They are sensitive, hard-working dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. Because they are extremely active, these dogs need plenty of exercise. They also require mental stimulation and attention. Without obedience training and sufficient attention, Savoyard shepherds tend to engage in destructive behavior. Members of this breed generally get along well with other animals.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 9 – 13 years |
| Nicknames: | The Savoyard shepherd or the Savoyard. |
Berger De Savoie Build Information
The berger de Savoie is a hardy, medium-sized dog with a light to medium build. The average adult measures about 21 inches at the shoulder. Like most shepherds, members of this breed have long, thick tails and are well muscled. These dogs have half-perked ears, broad heads and tapered muzzles. Like most mountain breeds, the Savoyard has a dense coat. Acceptable coat colors include merle, black and tan, sable and tricolor.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Members of this breed are intelligent and loyal. They are sensitive, hard-working dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. Because they are extremely active, these dogs need plenty of exercise. They also require mental stimulation and attention. Without obedience training and sufficient attention, Savoyard shepherds tend to engage in destructive behavior. Members of this breed generally get along well with other animals.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
The berger de Savoie requires little grooming beyond regular brushing and nail trims. Brushing the dog once per week is usually sufficient to reduce shedding and prevent mats. The dog does not require regular bathing and should only be bathed when dirty. If bathed too often, the dog may develop dry, itchy skin.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Berger De Savoie Common Health Conditions
Because this breed is rare, no specific breed health issues have been reported. Due to the small number of these dogs left, however, any genetic health issues present in the few remaining breeding adults are likely to affect future generations of Savoyard shepherds.
Berger De Savoie Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Extremely rare, French herding breed. The berger de Savoie is also popularly known as the Savoyard shepherd or the Savoyard. Currently being restored by a group called the Soci
| Training: | Moderately easy |
