Known in the Pyrenees Mountains  of France for some 8,000 years, the Pyrenean Shepherd worked in partnership with the Great Pyrenees. While the larger Great Pyrenees protected the flock against predators, the Pyrenean Shepherd actually herded the sheep. The Pyrenean Shepherd is sometimes referred to as a Pyrenean Sheepdog outside the USA.

The Pyrenean Shepherd is the smallest of the French herding breeds, and stands up to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. He comes in two varieties which are identical in every way except their coats. The Rough Pyrenean Shepherd has a coarse, long-haired, weather-proof coat. The Smooth-Faced Pyrenean Shepherd has short hair on his face. The Pyrenean Shepherd demonstrates great variety in his appearance. His coat may be corded, long haired, or he may possess a demi-long jacket. His coat color should be brindle, fawn, black, blue-merle, or gray. The Pyrenean Shepherd may sport a moustache - but he may not!