Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced
Also known as Chien de Berger des Pyrenees A Face Rase · Pyrenaen-Hutehund Mit Kurzhaarigem Gesicht · Pastor de Los Pirineos de Cara Rasa
France, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 38–48 cm
- Weight
- 7–15 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–15 yrs
- Energetic
- Alert
- Sensitive
- Agile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced
The Pyrenean Sheepdog (smooth-faced) is a small herding dog from the French Pyrenees, used by shepherds to gather and move flocks over steep mountain pastures. It is a light, wiry dog with a short, smooth face and a harsh coat of medium length, often fawn, grey or brindle. It is quick, agile and tireless.
Temperament
Very lively, alert and sensitive, bonding closely to its people. Can be wary of strangers and vocal. Intelligent and quick to learn, but can be anxious without enough mental and physical work.
Exercise
High: needs at least an hour of active exercise daily, plus training, agility or herding-style games.
Grooming
Harsh, short to medium coat that is easy to care for. Brush once or twice a week.
Care & wellbeing
Active, small dogs do well with controlled weight and regular nail trims. Socialise early to prevent excessive wariness. Check hips and kneecaps with your vet and keep activity gentle in puppyhood.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 11 kg adult- Water
- 440 ml–660 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 680 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small, energetic herding dog of the French Pyrenees, used by shepherds to move flocks across steep mountain pastures. Quick, alert and agile, it is a keen worker and has remained mostly a working and sporting dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Patella checks
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
Not every Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 13–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced get?
Adult Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds typically stand about 38–48 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 7–15 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds live?
Typically 13–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faceds have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, hip dysplasia. Not every Pyrenean Sheepdog - Smooth Faced is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- France
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1955