Picardy Shepherd vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Picardy Shepherd and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
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Picardy Shepherd
Alert, loyal, and full of energy, the Picardy Shepherd thrives as an active companion. Its shaggy coat and affectionate spirit make it a standout family dog.

Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Large
28–32 kg
Harsh texture, medium length
10–13 years
23–27 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Picardy Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Learns quickly, responds well to training
Needs daily vigorous physical and mental activity
Enjoys games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to changes in environment
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Picardy Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Picardy Shepherd
Challenging for novices
Needs experienced handler for training and socialization
Not suitable
Needs space and dislikes confinement in small areas
Excellent match
Thrives with active families who provide daily exercise and stimulation
Good fit
Generally gentle, but supervision is needed with very young children
Often compatible
Can coexist with other pets if properly socialized early
Not recommended
Dislikes long periods of isolation and may develop anxiety or destructiveness
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Picardy Shepherd
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn
- Strong work ethic and stamina
- Excellent natural watchdog instincts
- Adaptable to various living environments
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Picardy Shepherd
- Needs significant daily mental stimulation
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular coat grooming and maintenance
- May herd children or other animals
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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