Akbash vs Berger Picard
Complete side-by-side comparison of Akbash and Berger Picard. Compare temperament, size, lifespan, cost, and care requirements.
Akbash
Size
Giant (100+ lbs)
Lifespan
10-12 years
Price
$700-$1,500
Berger Picard
Size
Medium (25-50 lbs)
Lifespan
12-13 years
Price
$2,000-$3,000
Quick Verdict
Berger Picard wins this comparison!
Berger Picard edges out Akbash in our comparison, scoring better in 4 of 6 key categories. However, both are excellent breeds and the best choice depends on your specific lifestyle and needs.
Physical Characteristics
| Attribute | Akbash | Berger Picard |
|---|---|---|
| Size Category | Giant (100+ lbs) | Medium (25-50 lbs) |
| Height | 27-34" | 21-26" |
| Weight | 80-140 lbs | 50-70 lbs |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years | 12-13 years |
| Coat Type | Double | Wire |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Temperament & Behavior
| Attribute | Akbash | Berger Picard |
|---|---|---|
| Affection Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Children | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Other Dogs | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good with Strangers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Playfulness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Protectiveness | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Trainability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Energy Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Barking Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Intelligence | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Care Requirements
| Attribute | Akbash | Berger Picard |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate - Weekly | Moderate - Weekly |
| Exercise (min/day) | 60 min | 60 min |
| Mental Stimulation | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Drooling Level | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Living Conditions
| Attribute | Akbash | Berger Picard |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment Friendly | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Good for Beginners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Tolerates Being Alone | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Cold Weather | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Hot Weather | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Cost Comparison
| Cost Factor | Akbash | Berger Picard |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $700-$1,500 | $2,000-$3,000 |
| Annual Cost | $1,400/year | $1,500/year |
Health Considerations
Akbash
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Generally healthy breed with no major genetic issues.
Berger Picard
Lifespan: 12-13 years
Generally healthy breed with no major genetic issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Akbash or Berger Picard better for families?
Berger Picard is generally better for families, scoring 4/5 for child-friendliness compared to 3/5 for Akbash. However, both breeds can make great family pets with proper training and socialization.
Which costs more to own, a Akbash or Berger Picard?
A Berger Picard costs approximately $1500/year while a Akbash costs about $1400/year. Akbash is the more affordable option.
Which is easier to train, a Akbash or Berger Picard?
Berger Picard is generally easier to train, scoring 4/5 for trainability compared to 2/5 for Akbash.
Do Akbash or Berger Picard live longer?
On average, both breeds have similar lifespans of about 11.0 years.
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