Pyrenean Shepherd Dog with a shaved face

History, origin & features

Although a very old breed, the history of the Pyrenean Shorthaired Sheepdog is little known.
They were highly prized by “maquignons and cattle-touchers” in the valleys of Piedmont, and their appearance varies greatly from one valley to another. Its character and behavior, however, never change. Pyrenean Shepherd Dogs are known for their lively, cheerful disposition. Intelligent and very active, they are much appreciated as herding dogs, but their devotion to their master and playfulness make them excellent pets. Wary of strangers and attentive, they can be effective guard dogs. The short-faced Pyrenean Shepherd is a small, lively dog. Its coat distinguishes it from its namesake, the Longhaired Shepherd, with a medium-length coat over the whole body, except on the head, where it is short and fine. Coat color can be gray, fawn or black, in all their shades.