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🐶 Dog · size Medium

Crau Shepherd

dog breed

Photo · Wikipedia FR (CC BY-SA)

Weight

5–30 kg

Size

Medium

Lifespan

11–14 ans

Energy

Élevé

Maintenance

Élevé

Training

Très élevé

The Crau Herding Dog (or Shepherd of Crau) is a dog breed originating from the Crau plain in southern France. It was traditionally used as a herding dog in large transhumant flocks. It is distinguished by typically black, curly-coated fur. As of 2016, it was one of three main herding dogs used in the Alps, alongside the Border Collie and the Pyrenean Shepherd.

Profile

At a glance

Energy

Élevé

Trainability

Très élevé

Maintenance

Élevé

Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.

⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds

L'essentiel

  • 1Medium size (5-30 kg) — balance between presence and practicality.
  • 2Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years on average, depending on hygiene and diet.
  • 3High energy level — at least 1 hour of daily activity for balance.
  • 4Regular grooming — brushing 3 to 5 times per week.

Chapter 1

Getting to know the Crau Shepherd

Origins & history

A story told

The Crau Herding Dog originates from the Crau region, an alluvial plain in the Rhone delta. It was very common in Provençal transhumant flocks. The Crau Herding Dog was specifically used to "travel the roads" to the Alps. It was progressively replaced by the Beauceron or Border Collie. However, the breed was saved by a few breeders who passed it down through generations.

Physical

Breed standard

The standard for the Crau Herding Dog was still being drafted in March 2019. As of August 14, 2015, a studbook was opened by the SCC.

What if you adopted your future companion?

The Crau Shepherd of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of crau shepherd (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.

Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.

Âge

What human age for a crau shepherd ?

The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 11–14 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.

3 years
Birth22 years
Adult size

10 à 22 kg — a giant dog ages significantly faster than a small dog after maturity.

Equivalent human age

29years

Adulte

Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.

Method: AVMA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +5 per year for a moyen dog.

These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.

Alert

To avoid for dog

Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.

  • low-fat cocoa powderModerate
  • maltitolModerate
  • cocoa pasteModerate
  • onion piecesModerate

Calculator · daily ration

How much to give a crau shepherd ?

Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for dog. Adjust according to package recommendations.

18 kg
5 kg33 kg
Moderate

Result

221 g

per day · 839 kcal

111 g / repas (2 par jour)

Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.

For an exact calculation for your Crau Shepherd (breed, age, allergies, health conditions): create a free account

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Crau Shepherd

Is a Crau Shepherd suitable for apartment living?+
This depends on the individual dog: its size requires space and exercise, provided its daily activity needs are met.
How much exercise per day for a Crau Shepherd?+
Plan for about 1 hour of daily exercise — brisk walks, play, or canine sports.
What is the life expectancy of a Crau Shepherd?+
Between 11 and 14 years on average. Appropriate diet, regular veterinary care, and exercise contribute to a longer life.
Is a Crau Shepherd good with children?+
This depends on the individual dog: early socialization and mutual respect are key. Never leave a young child alone with any animal, regardless of breed.

If you like this dog

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For more information

Sources & official links

Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.

The right score for your Crau Shepherd.

SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.