star trek picard dog breed

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Published Jul 12, 2021

Sir Patrick Stewart on Why Number One Is the Best Good Boy

The actor talks about Picard's new best friend.

StarTrek.com

This article originally was published on January 27, 2020

One of the most exciting new characters in Star Trek: Picard is Number One, Picard’s trusty pitbull sidekick. The Internet fell in love with Number One the moment that Very Good Boi appeared in trailers and on posters. When interviewed during the Picard press junket, Sir Patrick Stewart shared a little bit about why Picard now has a dog, and why the dog is a pitbull specifically.

“I wanted a dog because I have, only in the last four years, renewed my acquaintance with dogs. I had a dog, a border collie, when I was little and nothing since then. I thought all we need to do is to have a dog at Picard's side. And that, without any dialogue or any dramatic reference, will say a lot about this man, that he now has a dog always at his side,” Stewart said of the creative decision behind giving Picard a four-legged friend.

He continued. “And then the question was what kind of dog? Well, I am obsessed with pitbulls. What a dog, and how ill used they have been, appalling used. In England they're a banned breed. I adopted my first pit bull and we already were excited about the thought of taking her back to England, and we couldn't do it. They won't be let in the country. I even talked to the British Embassy in Washington about it and they said,  ‘There's nothing we can do.` I'm now part of a campaign working in the UK to get this legislation changed because they are the most sensitive, the most loving, the most giving, the most affectionate creatures that you could ever possibly hope to meet.”

It seems that Stewart represents the best of us both on and off the screen. Pitbulls have a history of being mistreated, so Stewart is doing the right thing in standing up for them against unfair stereotypes and giving them a platform like Star Trek: Picard . We think Picard would be proud.

Jude Watches Star Trek: Picard — Remembrance

Star Trek: Picard streams exclusively on Paramount+ in the U.S. and is distributed concurrently by Paramount Global Distribution Group on Amazon Prime Video in more than 200 countries and territories. In Canada, it airs on Bell Media’s CTV Sci-Fi Channel and streams on Crave.

Stay tuned to StarTrek.com for more details! And be sure to follow @StarTrek on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .

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Number One (dog)

• View history

Although Picard called him an "old dog", Number One was still prone to capturing small mammals and bringing them into the house. ( PIC : " Remembrance ")

As Picard headed off once more on a new mission into space , he left Number One behind at Château Picard to be cared for by Laris and Zhaban . ( PIC : " The End is the Beginning ")

Appendices [ ]

Background information [ ].

Patrick Stewart , an advocate for pit bulls, suggested that Picard should have a dog on the vineyard, and that it should be a pit bull. [1]

Writer/producer Michael Chabon said that the decision to name Picard's dog "Number One" came in the first draft of " Remembrance ". ( TRR : " Remembrance ")

Dinero , who plays Number One, is a rescue dog, with little previous film experience. "Remembrance" director Hanelle M. Culpepper described Dinero as "very green" (that is, inexperienced) and " a challenge sometimes, but super, super sweet. " Michael Chabon agreed, saying, " He was the sweetest dog. He was not a great actor. " Culpepper noted that Number One was present in more scenes in the original script than in the episode as filmed, Culpepper noting, " We both agreed, let's leave the dog out of this one. " ( TRR : " Remembrance ")

The novels Oblivion's Gate and Rogue Elements incorrectly refer to Number One as a bulldog.

External link [ ]

Number One (dog) at Memory Beta , the wiki for licensed Star Trek works

• 3 ISS Enterprise (NCC-1701)

Star Trek: Picard's Stewart Explains Why the New Number One Is a Pit Bull

Patrick Stewart's own personal experiences informed the decision for his character to adopt a pit bull in CBS All Access' Star Trek: Picard.

One of the most heartwarming additions to Star Trek: Picard is Jean-Luc's adopted pit bull, whom he named Number One in a nod to his loyal first officer from  The Next Generation .

Rarely seen away from the side of the retired Starfleet admiral as he runs his family vineyard in France, Number One is a constant, gentle companion to Picard in the series premiere. For star and executive producer Patrick Stewart, the actor drew from his own personal background when it came to the creative decision to give his character a dog.

RELATED:  Star Trek: Picard Gives Data’s Daughter a New Significance

"I wanted a dog because I have, only in the last four years, renewed my acquaintance with dogs," Stewart explained to  StarTrek .com . "I thought all we need to do is to have a dog at Picard's side. And that, without any dialogue or any dramatic reference, will say a lot about this man, that he now has a dog always at his side.”

In selecting a pit bull to accompany Picard, Stewart continued to pull from his own experiences, including his and his wife's ongoing campaign to rehabilitate the breed's public image after years of being labeled a naturally aggressive breed of dog.

"The question was what kind of dog? Well, I am obsessed with pitbulls," Stewart said. "What a dog, and how ill used they have been, appalling used. In England they're a banned breed. I adopted my first pit bull and we already were excited about the thought of taking her back to England, and we couldn't do it. They won't be let in the country. I'm now part of a campaign working in the UK to get this legislation changed because they are the most sensitive, the most loving, the most giving, the most affectionate creatures that you could ever possibly hope to meet.”

RELATED:  Star Trek: Picard Theory - [SPOILER] Are Behind the Mars Attack

Star Trek: Picard stars Patrick Stewart, Alison Pill, Michelle Hurd, Evan Evagora, Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera and Harry Treadaway. New episodes of the series premiere every Thursday on CBS All Access.

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Berger Picard Dog Breed Guide: Info, Pictures, Care & More!

Click Below to Skip Ahead

• Characteristics
• Temperament
• Intelligence
• Food & Diet

While originally bred to be a hunting dog, the French Berger Picard also makes an excellent pet for everyday owners — provided that they can keep up with them, of course. Like most herding dogs, these animals are extremely energetic and active, so they’re not ideal for couch potatoes.

• Breed Overview

22 – 28 inches

50 – 70 pounds

12 – 14 years

Fawn, brindle

Suitable for:

Active families, experienced dog owners

Temperament:

Independent, intelligent, sensitive, powerful, athletic

They’re also fairly rare, so tracking one down can be a bit of a chore. If you manage to do so, though, you’ll find an engaging and affectionate (and stubborn) companion.

If you’re considering adopting one of these fine dogs, this guide will reveal everything that you need to know about these strong-willed pups.

• Berger Picards Characteristics
• Berger Picard Puppies

The problem with these adorable herding dogs is that many people decide to get one impulsively because of their looks, without really thinking through whether they’re willing to put up with the sacrifices inherent in owning one of these energetic pups.

They need a ton of exercise, even as puppies, so if you’re not the active type, this might not be the breed for you. They’re not inclined to sit around all day. The good news is that they’re a ton of fun to play with, so exercising them is rewarding. If you’re already the outdoorsy type, you’ll love romping around with one of these dogs at the park or in the woods.

We’re not looking to discourage anyone from adopting a Berger Picard, but you should know what you’re getting into before you bring one home. They will cuddle on the couch with you — but you’ll have to run around with them for hours first.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Berger Picard

Herding dogs are usually intelligent and independent, and the Berger Picard is no exception. As it turns out, though, these are complex animals, emotionally speaking.

They can be needy, and they require plenty of companionship from their humans. At the same time, they can be headstrong, so it can be quite the emotional yo-yo, as they’ll demand your company, only to ignore your orders.

They can also be quite sensitive, which is strange for such an independent animal. You have to be careful with how you talk to and interact with them.

They’re incredibly intelligent, though, so they can pick up on new commands in no time at all. Training is less an exercise in teaching them how to do something and more of navigating their complex emotional minefields to convince them to do it.

That intelligence can get them into trouble too, as they can be mischievous if they don’t get enough exercise every day.

• Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

Berger Picards are sweet and easygoing dogs, and they can be quite laidback when they get comfortable with their families. They’re not natural babysitters but they will enjoy playing with children.

You should never leave small children unattended with any dog, and Berger Picards are no exception. However, they’re much more likely to accidentally trample a kid while romping in the backyard than they are to bite them.

They can be quite reserved around strangers, though, so you might want to be careful about bringing one home if you often entertain guests. This reserved nature won’t necessarily lead to aggression, but they might snap if confronted with a guest who just has to pet the puppy.

Socialization is extremely important for Berger Picards. Unlike many other breeds, these dogs won’t necessarily become aggressive if poorly socialized, but they will be skittish and fearful.

These are one-owner dogs, and they bond deeply with their humans. However, this often means that they bond with just one human, and they may ignore other members in the house. As a result, everyone in the household must be involved in training and playing with the dog.

• Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

Berger Picards aren’t very aggressive toward other dogs, but that doesn’t necessarily make them a good fit for multi-dog households.

They should never be around other dogs that have a history of violence, as their sensitive nature causes them to be deeply wounded when subject to aggression. A single fight could cause them to be fearful and cautious toward every other dog they meet for the rest of their lives.

Berger Picards also tend to make and hold eye contact. While this is considered polite in humans, dogs see it as a challenge or sign of aggression. This can get them into trouble in situations where other dogs would be fine.

You should be careful when introducing a Berger Picard to any other dog, even if you know that your dog is friendly and well-behaved. You never know what other dogs will do, so protect your pup at all costs.

They can be tolerant of other animals like cats, but it’s best if they’re raised with them. In any case, they’re much more likely to try to herd them than attack them, but that might not be pleasant for the cat either.

Things to Know When Owning a Berger Picard

Berger Picards are extremely rare, so you may not know what to do with one after bringing them home. They’re much like other dogs in many ways, but there are still a few things that you should know before adopting one.

• Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

You’ll want to feed your Berger Picard the finest diet that you can, as they are extremely energetic and need quality food to fuel them.

Ideally, that will mean a high-protein kibble, as the protein will burn more slowly than carbs, keeping them energized all day long. That will also keep them from adding on too much weight, as obesity is terrible for these dogs.

Make sure that the kibble is made of high-quality ingredients. Avoid cheap fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, and skip any foods with animal by-products too. These are made from cheap cuts of meat that have been rejected for other purposes, so it’s not something that you want your dog to eat.

Given how active these dogs are, they can eat quite a bit. However, their meals should be strictly portion-controlled, as you don’t want them putting on extra weight.

Puppies should be given more food than adult dogs, and you might want to feed them as many as four meals per day until they’re fully grown. At that point, the meals can be cut in half, and you can drop the dog down to a single meal once they become seniors, especially if they’re less active at that point.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🌲 p i n e c o n e 🌲 (@picardy.pinecone)

Berger Picards need a ton of exercise. They’re used to running around farms all day, keeping livestock in line, so a long walk is the bare minimum.

They’ll need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day, so plan to spend a great deal of time outdoors with them. If they don’t get enough stimulation, they’ll get bored, and bored Berger Picards are likely to tear up your shoes or any other valuable items that you have lying around.

As you might expect, they do best in situations where they have plenty of room to run around, but they can also thrive in city settings. You’ll just have to make sure that they get all the stimulation that they need, one way or another.

They also need plenty of mental stimulation, as they’re incredibly smart. Puzzle toys are good investments , but daily training is a better way to tucker their little brains out.

These dogs are incredible athletes, and they’ve been successful in canine competitions like agility trials, flyball, lure coursing, and herding events (naturally).

Training is essential for these dogs, but it can be somewhat frustrating. They’re smart enough to pick up on new commands easily, but they have a stubborn streak that can make it difficult to get through to them.

It can be especially challenging because they’re so sensitive. You may feel like yelling at them or otherwise punishing them, but doing so will only make them withdraw from you. You should use positive reinforcement at all times.

If you can earn their respect, they’ll do whatever you ask at the drop of a hat. Otherwise, they’ll happily ignore you while doing their own thing.

If you don’t think that you’re up to the task, don’t be afraid to enlist the help of a professional. However, they should teach you how to train the dog rather than doing it themselves, as the dogs tend to bond with whoever’s doing the training.

Socialization is just as important as training, if not more so. You should try to expose them to new people and situations as often as possible and take pains to make sure that those situations are positive.

• Grooming ✂️

You won’t have to do much to keep your Berger Picard’s coat in line. They have a rough coat that doesn’t need much brushing, so you can likely get away with doing so just once every other week or so.

You don’t want to skip it entirely, though, as its tousled nature can often lead to tangles. There’s no need to cut or trim it, though.

There’s seldom any need to bathe them . They’re used to frolicking on farms, after all, so they don’t need to be pampered, and soap will just strip their fur of necessary oils.

Their teeth should be brushed regularly, and you should clean out their ears with a damp cloth once a week or so.

If you let your Berger Picard roam around outside, there will likely be no need to trim their nails, as they’ll wear them down on their own. Otherwise, you should take nail trimmers to them as necessary, which will likely be once a month or so.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hugo (@hugo_bergerpicard)

• Health and Conditions 🏥

The Berger Picard is generally a healthy breed, and they aren’t prone to many genetic health conditions. However, their rarity means there’s not as much information about their health as with some other breeds.

The good news is that owners of the breed are quite dedicated, and breeders usually perform screenings on the dogs before selling them. They also often submit blood samples to a dedicated DNA repository, allowing researchers to learn more about the dogs.

These conditions are known to affect the breed, but there’s no guarantee that your dog will suffer from any of them. They may also suffer from diseases not listed, so take the following with a grain of salt.

• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Hip dysplasia
• Male vs. Female

Male and female Berger Picards are similar in most respects, although males tend to be larger than females. Both will be highly energetic and sensitive, however.

Females may mature a bit faster, and they often tend to be a bit more independent, although not much. Overall, you shouldn’t see much difference between the two, and you should be happy regardless of which sex you bring home.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Berger Picards

• 1. The Pronunciation Is a Bit Tricky

At first glance, you probably want to pronounce the breed’s name the same way that you’d demand a Big Mac from a certain “Star Trek “captain. While people will likely know what you’re talking about if you pronounce it that way (assuming that they’ve heard of the breed at all), it’s not the proper pronunciation.

Instead, the name is pronounced like this: bare-ZHAY pee-CARR. It may sound like a pretentious name, but there’s nothing pretentious about these workmanlike farm dogs.

• 2. They Have Bad Luck in World Wars

There have been many breeds that nearly went extinct as a result of WWII, but the Berger Picard had the misfortune of nearly disappearing from the planet during both world wars.

The breed hails from the Picardy region of France, and it just happened to be the site of some of the most ferocious fighting in both WWI and WWII. What is normally picturesque farmland was instead transformed into a bloodbath.

Many of the dogs were undoubtedly killed during the fighting, and they simply weren’t replaced due to people’s focus being on more important things than breeding dogs.

• 3. The Breed’s Numbers Have Never Fully Recovered

While they’re no longer on the brink of extinction, this is still a relatively endangered breed. It’s estimated that there are currently only 3,500 of them in France, with a few hundred in other countries, most notably, Germany.

Efforts are being made to increase the population, but this is a specialized breed, so it’s unlikely that they’ll ever enjoy massive popularity. The chances are that there will never be more than a thousand Berger Picards in the world at any time, but hopefully, there will always be at least a few.

• Final Thoughts

Regardless of whether you’re a shepherd with flocks that need herding or simply a dog lover in need of a faithful companion, the Berger Picard can make an excellent pet.

They’re affectionate, loyal, and intelligent, but they’re also extremely energetic and can be quite stubborn. As a result, they may be a better fit for experienced owners.

While they may be a bit high-maintenance, they’re also wonderful pups that are sure to liven up your life.

• 15 French Dog Breeds (with Pictures)
• Best Dog Breeds

Featured Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock

Quincy Miller

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Why Star Trek: Picard's Patrick Stewart 'Had To' Have A Pit Bull In New Show

Star Trek: Picard is a sequel series that sets out to continue the story of Jean-Luc Picard, but also show viewers a side of the character fans haven't seen before . That means not just seeing Picard pick up life and witnessing how he has changed professionally since the events of Star Trek: Nemesis , but also seeing his personal changes as well. The first trailer showed PIcard living a life far removed from his days in Starfleet, and romping around with an adorable pit bull.

Patrick Stewart revealed at the Television Critics Association winter press tour's Picard panel that the choice for Picard's dog "Number One" to be a pit bull breed was deliberate. Stewart spoke about the decision, and how the inclusion of a pit bull was one of his big requests for Star Trek: Picard .

Yes, it had to be a pit bull, because I’m passionate about these dogs, and they are abused and treated appallingly all over the world. I’m now campaigning in the UK for the laws to be changed and for them to be allowed into the country. So it’s terrific to have Dinero in the sequel, and I hope we see much more of him.

Patrick Stewart has long been an advocate for the pit bull breed and has been a foster owner to pit bulls over the years. Stewart famously made headlines with one dog named Ginger back in 2017 , but was unable to adopt her due to his living in the UK for part of the year. Under UK law, pit bulls are not allowed in the country under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Number One isn't just around because of Patrick Stewart, however, as the dog also has a narrative purpose in Star Trek: Picard . Stewart explained Number One represents a lot about Picard's life when the CBS All Access series picks up, and can tell viewers a lot just through the dynamic the two share.

Picard’s life has changed. He’s troubled, disturbed, lonely, and with feelings of strange, unnatural guilt. To just see him with a dog seemed to me to write a lot of things that didn’t have to be said, because the presence of the dog alone means that he’s looking for some form of comfort, which he cannot find anywhere else, but he finds it in the dog.

The comfort Jean-Luc Picard seeks is due to the events post Star Trek: Nemesis in which the Prime timeline was permanently changed . Data sacrificed his life to save everyone else, and Romulus was destroyed by a supernova. The series will address both these issues, as well as how Picard will deal with these issues outside of getting a dog.

Star Trek: Picard airs on CBS All Access Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET. Stick with CinemaBlend for more on the Star Trek universe, and for the latest news happening in television or movies.

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Mick Joest is a Content Producer for CinemaBlend with his hand in an eclectic mix of television goodness. Star Trek is his main jam, but he also regularly reports on happenings in the world of Star Trek, WWE, Doctor Who, 90 Day Fiancé, Quantum Leap, and Big Brother. He graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Radio and Television. He's great at hosting panels and appearing on podcasts if given the chance as well.

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Berger Picard: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners

ernstboese / Getty Images 

• Characteristics
• Breed History
• Training and Care
• Health Problems

Diet and Nutrition

• Where to Adopt or Buy

Breed Overview

• Further Research

The Berger Picard is a medium-size herding dog breed from France that has a medium-length, wiry coat that forms its trademark shaggy beard, eyebrows, and mustache. Its erect ears are notably large and taper from a broad base to a slightly rounded tip. And its tail has a slight curve at the end. Overall, the breed is sturdy and muscular but not overly bulky. This allows it to move with agility and endurance in fields herding livestock. 

Group:   Herding

Height: 21.5 to 23.5 inches (female), 23.5 to 25.5 inches (male)

Weight: 50 to 70 pounds

Coat: Medium-length, wiry double coat

Coat Color: Brindle or fawn with/without white markings

Life Span: 12 to 13 years

Temperament: Energetic, alert, intelligent

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: France

Characteristics of the Berger Picard

The Berger Picard generally has a bright and energetic temperament. This dog does best in an active household that will provide it with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. High intelligence and trainability also shape the breed’s personality, though it can be stubborn about following commands at times. 

History of the Berger Picard

The Berger Picard (pronounced: bare ZHAY pee CARR) is an ancient breed, and its origin is murky. Its ancestors are thought to have existed in France since the Middle Ages. And it might be a descendant of dogs brought to France by Central European Celts. It’s also a close relative of other French herding dogs, including the Briard and Beauceron, though it’s thought to be the oldest of these herders. 

These dogs call the agricultural Picardy region of France home, where they were valued for their stamina and determination when herding. They were entered in France’s first dog show in 1863 in the same class as the Briard and Beauceron. It wasn’t until 1925 that the Berger Picard was recognized as a distinct breed in France.

World War I and II caused the breed’s numbers to dwindle, and it almost went extinct. Breeders have kept it alive, though it’s still rare. The American Kennel Club first recognized the Berger Picard in 2015. And the breed even got a popularity boost as the star of the 2005 movie "Because of Winn-Dixie."

Berger Picard Care

Plan to spend ample time exercising your Berger Picard. Fortunately, this breed has fairly low-maintenance grooming needs. But it should receive consistent training and socialization starting from a young age.

Aim for at least two hours of exercise per day for your Berger Picard. Ideal activities include long walks, games of fetch, running, cycling, swimming, and hiking. Dog sports , including herding and agility, also are great ways to provide mental and physical challenges. And puzzle toys can give your dog some mental stimulation.

A bored Berger Picard that doesn’t have an outlet for its energy might become destructive, so make sure you’re able to dedicate enough time each day to exercise your dog.

The Berger Picard has a soft, insulating undercoat paired with a waterproof, wiry outer coat. It doesn’t need trimming, as this can damage the coat’s texture. And you typically only have to brush a few times a month to remove any loose fur and dirt. The coat is not prone to matting. However, expect periods of higher shedding often in the spring and fall, during which you should brush at least a few times per week to keep up with the loose fur. 

The coat also stays relatively clean on its own, so in general you’ll only need to bathe your dog when it gets dirty. But check your dog’s ears at least weekly for wax buildup, dirt, and other abnormalities. Plus, trim its nails roughly once a month, and aim to brush its teeth every day.

Berger Picards are smart and can pick up on training commands relatively quickly. Start training and socializing ideally when your dog is a puppy to instill good manners and prevent bad habits. 

Always use positive-reinforcement training methods , such as praise and treats. This breed can be sensitive to harsh corrections, shutting down and refusing to learn. Also, aim to keep your training sessions fun and varied to hold your dog’s interest. The breed does have a stubborn streak and can get bored with excessive repetition. 

Furthermore, if not adequately socialized from a young age, some Berger Picards might be skittish around new people and places. So start introducing your dog to different people, other dogs, and various locations as early and often as possible. Keep interactions positive using treats and praise, and stop if your dog seems overwhelmed. 

Common Health Problems

The Berger Picard is typically a very healthy dog breed throughout its life. But it can be prone to some hereditary health issues , including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Eye problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy  

Fresh water should always be available for your dog. And feed it a quality, nutritionally balanced diet, typically via two measured meals per day. Run both the type of food and the amount by your vet to ensure that you’re meeting your dog’s individual needs. For instance, if your Berger Picard lives a very active lifestyle, its nutrition needs might be higher. But be mindful of treats and other extra food to avoid overfeeding.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Berger Picard

The Berger Picard is extremely rare, so it might be difficult to find at both rescue groups and breeders. But it's still worth checking animal shelters and rescues to see whether there's a dog in need of a home. Get your name on a breed wait list if possible. For breeders, you might have to wait some time and travel a great distance to find a puppy. Expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 on average for a puppy from a responsible breeder.

For further information to connect you with a Berger Picard, check out:

• Berger Picard Club of America
• Berger Picard Rehome

Berger Picard Overview

Adventurous and athletic 

Typically a healthy breed

Easy-care coat

Needs lots of exercise 

Can be stubborn about training

Might be destructive when bored

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Do thorough research before bringing home a Berger Picard to make sure the breed is right for your lifestyle. Talk to Berger Picard owners, rescue groups, reputable breeders, and veterinary professionals. Spend some time around Berger Picards too if possible.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Belgian Tervuren

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!

Well-trained and socialized Berger Picards are moderately tolerant of kids in general. They can be a good fit for older children, but they might be too energetic around young kids.

Berger Picards generally are friendly and devoted to their family. They can be wary of strangers. But with proper training and socialization, this typically does not translate into aggression.

Berger Picards do best in a home with a secure yard in which they can run freely. They often are too active for apartment living and might become destructive if they don’t have an outlet for their energy.

Berger Picard . American Kennel Club.

Berger Picard Puppies For Sale . American Kennel Club.

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Berger Picard Dog: Breed Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

Image Credit: TMArt, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Dogster Team

Click Below to Skip Ahead

• Characteristics
• Temperament
• Intelligence
• Food & Diet

Berger Picards are obscure dogs with an interesting history. If you mention the name Berger Picard to the average dog owner, you will likely be met with a blank stare. These dogs are not as well known, or as well loved, as dozens of other breeds. However, those who take the time to learn about the Berger Picard will be surprised by their intelligence, energy, and versatility. These dogs can be loyal companions and are perfect for people looking for a healthy and low maintenance companion.

Breed Overview

21–26 inches

50–70 pounds

12–13 years

Fawn, brindle

Suitable for:

People looking for a unique and loyal herding dog

Temperament:

Independent, hardworking and alert

Berger Picards are old European farm dogs with interesting personalities and an independent streak that will appeal to busy dog owners. These dogs have been a part of the European countryside for hundreds of years and have slowly made their way across the Atlantic to the United States in recent decades. These dogs are of medium build, have a thick wiry coat, and are adept problem solvers. These dogs are very observant and will learn mannerisms and habits better than other dogs.

Berger Picard Breed Characteristics

Berger Picard Puppies

The best way to get a Berger Picard puppy is to source one from a reputable breeder. Berger Picards are not very common in the United States. There are more Berger Picard breeders in Europe, especially France, than there are in the United States, but determined buyers can find a breeder near them through a variety of databases. Not only are Berger Picards not common in the US, but they are also not very well known, which means that most shelters and rescues might not even know when they come into possession of a rare Berger Picard, making it hard to keep an eye out for them through local resources.

Due to their independent natures, the socialization of Berger Picard puppies is highly recommended for the best results.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Berger Picard

Berger Picards are described as independent problem solvers. They get this reputation from their time as versatile farm dogs, where they were tasked with a variety of different jobs, from herding sheep to alerting farmers to the presence of strangers. Berger Picards are extremely loyal and eager to please, but they are not super loving. These dogs like to work alone and are used to spending long hours by themselves outside, so they don’t need constant attention or companionship to keep them happy. That means that they will be happy doing their own thing for most of the day but will appreciate praise and attention from time to time.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

Usually. Berger Picards can be great family dogs in the right situation. Berger Picards needs a family that is willing to provide enough physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy while indoors. However, their independent nature and propensity for herding might not make them great for families with small children. Some Berger Picards can be nippy, especially when they are young. Many herding breeds nip to get animals to go where they need them to, and it is not unheard of for Berger Picards to nip small children in an attempt to herd them. These dogs will likely be better for families with older children than families with young children or babies.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?  

Sometimes. Berger Picards are able to get along with other pets, including dogs and small animals, but not all of them will. Due to their independent and lonely nature, these dogs might not enjoy the company of other dogs. They might also have the urge to herd or protect small animals, as is their nature. Most Berger Picards will do fine in families with additional pets, but some individuals might not take kindly to a multi-animal household.

Things to Know When Owning a Berger Picard

Food & diet requirements 🦴.

Berger Picards do not have any specific dietary requirements. You should be feeding your dog high-quality formulated dry food for the best results. Balancing your Berger Picard’s caloric intake with its lifestyle will be important to provide them with everything they need. Active Berger Picards will need more calories than older, less active dogs. However, if your Berger Picard is not active, you need to reduce calories to prevent obesity. Berger Picards are prone to obesity, and the number one cause of obesity in Berger Picards is excess calories.

Berger Picards were bred to be pasture dogs, meant to roam around pastures all day. This means that these dogs have a lot of stamina, and they need an outlet for their energy. Berger Picards do not need lots of high intensity exercise, but they do need long sessions of low intensity exercise to keep them happy and healthy. You should take your Berger Picard on at least one long walk per day (along with one short walk), if not two long walks per day. Berger Picards will also benefit from a large yard where they can roam around. If these dogs do not receive enough mental and physical stimulation, they can get mischievous, which can lead to destructive behaviors at home. Berger Picards that do not get enough exercise, can also get anxious and unhappy.

Berger Picards can be a mixed bag to train. They are energetic and stubborn, but they are also eager to please and motivated by praise. Some Berger Picards will develop bad habits early, which can be hard to break, but if you start training right away, you should be able to shape them into the dog you want through consistent training, treats, and praise. Some Berger Picards will take to training easily, while others will require more feeling out and finesse. Due to their independent nature, these dogs do not respond to negative reinforcement, and using harsh or angry tactics can cause them to dig in rather than respond to training.

Grooming ✂️

Berger Picards have very minimal grooming needs. They have a thick undercoat that keeps them warm and a rough overcoat that prevents them from getting too dirty. Their topcoat is even water resistant. Berger Picards will shed during shedding seasons (spring and autumn), and during these times, regular brushing will help keep the dead fur from covering your home. Otherwise, you should only need to bathe and brush your dog once per month to keep their coat fresh.

Health and Conditions🏥

Berger Picards are very healthy dogs. They have no major health issues to be concerned about. Most Berger Picards will live long and fruitful lives. Obviously, any dog can develop unforeseen health issues, but most Berger Picards will avoid these due to a robust constitution. These dogs do not have any major red flags or recurring health problems. The only thing that appears on the Berger Picard’s health panel is a small risk of hip dysplasia.

• Hip dysplasia

Male vs Female

Female Berger Picards are visibly smaller than males. Females stand two to three inches shorter and can weigh 20 pounds less than males. Males are more robust and muscular than the females. If you want a larger dog, choose a male. If you want a smaller dog, then choose a female. Outside of these basic size differences, there aren’t many major changes between males and females in terms of personality or behavior.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Berger Picard

1. a staple of the french countryside.

The Berger Picard is an ancient breed that came to the old region of Gaul through roaming bands of Celts. Since that point, the Berger Picard became a staple of the French countryside. Rural French living has been a part of the culture for centuries, and the Berger Picard, being a robust herding and pasture dog, became an integrated part of this culture. This dog is synonymous with French country living. While it is not very popular in the United States , it is instantly recognizable to large portions of the French population.

2. The World Wars Almost Drove the Berger Picard to Extinction

World War I and World War II decimated large portions of France. Idyllic countrysides were turned into violent battlefields. Unfortunately, many dogs did not survive the wars. The Berger Picard, who lived in some of the bloodiest areas of both World War I and World War II, were decimated. The population was so low after the wars that the dog nearly went extinct. A concerted effort was launched to rescue and foster the remaining dogs so that the breed could survive into the future. Prior to World War I, Berger Picards were extremely common in the French countryside, but their numbers heavily diminished after the fighting.

3. The Berger Picard’s Name Is Derived from Its Home Region

Berger Picards might evoke the image of the famous Captain Picard from Star Trek, but their name is much older than the groundbreaking sci-fi television show that it evokes. The dog actually derives its name from the region of France that it hails from, Picardy. Picardy is a rural region of Northern France filled with the types of pastures that Berger Picards thrive in.

Final Thoughts

Berger Picards are French herding dogs with a long and twisting history. From being a staple of the French countryside to the verge of extinction , these dogs have endured a lot and continue to thrive in the 21st century. These dogs can be fun, loyal, and loving. But they can also be independent, nippy, and stubborn. Their unique history, appearance, and temperament will attract many dog owners looking for something a little bit out of the norm , and they will fit into most households that are prepared to deal with their quirks.

Featured Image Credit: TMArt, Shutterstock

About the Author

Grant Piper

Grant is a freelance writer with a lot of experience writing about a diverse range of topics. He currently lives in Florida with his wife. His days are spent writing, raising a son, and caring for eight animals (two horses, two donkeys, two goats, and two dogs). In his free time he enjoys slowly carving out a quaint hobby farm from the Southern scrub.

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Why Star Trek: Picard's adorable dog is WAY more important than you might think

Resistance to his cuteness is futile.

That's the surprisingly serene set up for Patrick Stewart's return to the Star Trek franchise, but as you might expect, Jean-Luc's retirement doesn't last for long. By the end of Picard's first episode, the man with no crew or starship sets out to reclaim both in a bid to solve dangerous mysteries from yesteryear.

Along the way, Picard assembles a new team of allies to join him, along with some old friends too . While they're all helpful to varying degrees of success, it's Jean Luc's dog who makes the biggest impact — and not just because he's the cutest thing in this galaxy or any other.

When we're first reintroduced to Picard, twenty years after we last saw him in Star Trek: Nemesis , the former Starfleet captain isn't quite the same man we once knew. He's 92 years old and now has far too much time on his hands, sipping some Chateau Picard-exclusive wine while ruminating on his past mistakes.

During a recent interview with TV Line , executive producer Alex Kurtzman described Picard as "broken," and that's what separates this show from all of the other Star Trek stories that have been told before.

Previous instalments have introduced us to these heroes in their heyday, but this version of Picard is essentially an old man obsessing over past failures.

Even before Jean-Luc voices his frustration with the Federation during an all-too-public interview, viewers can already see the pain that Picard lives with.

However, while that nightmare opening scene reveals he hasn't full recovered from the loss of Data , it's the name of his new best friend which hints that Picard also misses his former life too.

As Next Generation fans might recall, the former captain used to call William Riker "Number One" to signify his role as the Enterprise's First Officer.

Early on, we learn that Picard has also called his pit bull Number One, showing that he never really let go of his glory days, even though he's the one who chose to quit Starfleet following the attack on Mars .

By their very nature, action-based stories like this rarely show the long-term impact of constant fighting and peril. Some recent films like Logan and The Last Jedi have started to address this, but Picard has a far longer run time, enabling it to explore the lasting nuances of trauma and regret in ways that a movie could never quite manage.

Speaking to Digital Spy and other press, Kurtzman explained why this focus on an older hero sets Picard apart from previous generations of Star Trek :

"If we set out to say, like, “Let’s tell the story of a 94-year-old man” absent of the context of this amazing franchise, people probably would have been less interested or inclined to spend the money on it... But to us, the age was the draw, because you never get to do anything like that."

More than just an adorable sidekick, Number One also symbolises the baggage that Picard carries with him throughout this new show. Torn between painful regret and a wistful yearning for past glories, this is a man who has receded into the background for so long that he no longer knows his place in the universe.

Thankfully, Picard itself balances the old and new much better than Jean-Luc does at first, staying faithful to the Star Trek of yesteryear while also moving the franchise boldly forward to places its never gone before.

Sure, Jean-Luc doesn't throw himself into fights with the same aplomb he once did, but that's not going to stop Patrick Stewart himself from living long and prospering on the show.

Speaking to Digital Spy and other press, the Star Trek legend told us that the very notion of retirement is " inconceivable " to him, and on the day after Picard's London premiere, Stewart even admitted that he was a "trifle hungover" from celebrating "rather forcefully" the night before.

Trust us when we say you'll be celebrating "rather forcefully" after watching Picard spend time with his new 'Number One', too. Not only does he physically represent our beloved hero's trauma, but he's also a very good boy.

Star Trek: Picard has a premiere date of January 23, 2020. It will air on CBS All Access in the US and Amazon Prime internationally, including the UK.

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After teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival. 

In 2019, David moved to London to join Digital Spy , where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and LGBTQ+ storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor.

David has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads.

Beyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless Drag Race legends. 

As a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including Empire Online, Radio Times , INTO, Highsnobiety, Den of Geek , The Digital Fix and Sight & Sound . 

.css-15yqwdi:before{top:0;width:100%;height:0.25rem;content:'';position:absolute;background-image:linear-gradient(to right,#51B3E0,#51B3E0 2.5rem,#E5ADAE 2.5rem,#E5ADAE 5rem,#E5E54F 5rem,#E5E54F 7.5rem,black 7.5rem,black);} Star Trek: Picard

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The Name Of Picard's Dog In New Star Trek Series Is Absolutely Brilliant

Star Trek: The Next Generation fans rejoice, 'cause Number One is officially set to appear opposite Jean-Luc Picard on the upcoming Star Trek   series Star Trek: Picard .

Well, sort of. 

Details surrounding the wildly anticipated Star Trek: Picard  slowly made the rounds ahead of the  Star Trek  panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2019, and more than a few fascinating details have surfaced about what fans can expect of Patrick Stewart's return to the world of Starfleet. Of note is a particularly juicy nugget regarding one of the fan theories spawned by the official release of  the first official poster  for  Star Trek: Picard . You know, the one involving the name of the erstwhile pooch overlooking the Picard family vineyard with Jean-Luc seen in the one-sheet?

Well, it has now been revealed that the dog's name is indeed Number One. CBS All Access confirmed the fact to  Entertainment Weekly .

That confirmation ends a week's worth of speculation from  Star Trek  fans who — after painstakingly dissection every single detail in the  Picard  poster after its release — were quick to seize on the fact that the dog's tag (which is also in the shape of a Starfleet insignia) appeared to sport "No. 1." on it (which it did). And we now know exactly what the number means — though it remains to be seen whether or not the obviously Starfleet-friendly pooch will be accompanying Picard on his return to the final frontier.

Of course, this news also spawns a question or two of its own. Most importantly, what does that dog's name mean for the real Number One — Jonathan Frakes' beloved  Star Trek: The Next Generation   character, Commander Will Riker? We already know Frakes is returning to the  Star Trek  fray to direct his old shipmate in two episodes of  Picard , but it's hard to imagine Frakes would opt out of also appearing (at least for a cameo) alongside his old pal Patrick Stewart on the series. And if he does, how do we think Commander Riker might respond to ordering his beloved pup to "make it so"? 

The fun that might be had in that little scenario will keep us smiling for a few days, to be certain. With the  Star Trek  team all but guaranteed to drop a few more details surrounding the  Picard  series during their Hall H panel for SDCC 2019, we can only hope that the return of Frakes' Riker (and possibly other TNG  faves) to the noble orbit of Jean-Luc Picard will be amongst them. With any luck, we'll also get a firm release date for the show, because we're all dying to know exactly when in 2019 we can expect to see  Star Trek: Picard  hitting CBS' All Access streaming service. 

Stay tuned to Looper for all the latest  Picard  news trickling out of Comic-Con. Until then, here's a look at the man himself, and the adorable pooch in question, courtesy of EW .

Star Trek: Picard's Patrick Stewart Shares Story Behind Number One

Dogs are a man's best friend..

Star Trek: Picard star Patrick Stewart has shared the story behind his new Number One, explaining why Jean-Luc has a canine companion in the new series and how they settled on a pit bull for the pint-sized part.

Speaking to  StarTrek.com , Stewart opened up about the creative decision of adding a dog to the cast line-up of the Star Trek show, as he suggested Picard's four-legged friend serves to reveal something deeper about the retired captain of the Enterprise.

"I wanted a dog because I have, only in the last four years, renewed my acquaintance with dogs," Steward confessed in the interview. "I had a dog, a border collie, when I was little and nothing since then. I thought all we need to do is to have a dog at Picard's side. And that, without any dialogue or any dramatic reference, will say a lot about this man, that he now has a dog always at his side."

As an avowed pit bull rescue enthusiast, Stewart revealed he had some influence over the decision of which breed was going to be selected for the Admiral's pet, admitting his strong association with pit bulls helped to determine the outcome.

"Well, I am obsessed with pit bulls. What a dog, and how ill-used they have been, appalling used," he explained. "In England, they're a banned breed. I adopted my first pit bull and we already were excited about the thought of taking her back to England, and we couldn't do it. They won't be let in the country. I even talked to the British Embassy in Washington about it and they said, 'There's nothing we can do.'

"I'm now part of a campaign working in the UK to get this legislation changed because they are the most sensitive, the most loving, the most giving, the most affectionate creatures that you could ever possibly hope to meet."

In the new series, Picard awards his pooch the affectionate nickname of "Number One" , as a reference to the informal title of a second-in-command officer aboard a Starfleet ship. In the original Star Trek: The Next Generation, William Riker (played by Jonathan Frakes) starred as the second-in-command to Picard and was frequently referred to as Number One.

For more on Star Trek: Picard, read our review of the first episode , find out how Picard changes everything for Star Trek , and discover how Picard fits into the Star Trek timeline .

Adele Ankers is a Freelance Entertainment Journalist. You can reach her on  Twitter .

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Details revealed on star trek: picard’s new crew, data & dog.

Following an SDCC 2019 panel and trailer full of shocking reveals, further details emerge regarding Star Trek: Picard's crew, dog and Data.

Further  Star Trek: Picard details have emerged following the show's explosive San Diego Comic Con 2019 panel and trailer reveal. First announced in August 2018 by Patrick Stewart himself,  Star Trek: Picard was confirmed to be another new  Trek project in production, focusing on the retired life of the titular iconic Starfleet captain. Early details revealed little about  Star Trek: Picard 's cast and plot, and fans knew only that Stewart's character was haunted by a past event and living on the family vineyard with his dog, although franchise producer, Alex Kurtzman, claimed that Picard would head towards the stars eventually.

However, Star Trek: Picard 's SDCC 2019 panel and the trailer unveiled during that presentation made a string of shocking reveals and provided an in-depth look at what to expect from the spinoff. The main premise of  Star Trek: Picard sees Jean-Luc approached by a young girl in need of help, pulling the old Enterprise-D leader back to his adventurous life after years of relative boredom. The trailer confirmed that Brent Spiner would be returning as Data , Jeri Ryan would reprise her  Star Trek: Voyager role as Seven of Nine ,  and Jonathan Del Orco would appear as Hugh Borg. Other characters from the  Star Trek: The Next Generation such as Riker and Troi have also been confirmed to appear.

Related: Why So Many Star Trek TV Shows Are Currently In Development

Speaking with  IGN  following the  Star Trek SDCC 2019 panel, the cast and crew of  Star Trek: Picard revealed further details regarding the show's story and characters. On the issue of Picard's new mysterious crew, it's confirmed that the group are a renegade bunch with an ex-Starfleet leader. Furthermore, despite saying "engage" in the trailer for old time's sake, Picard will not be the captain of this crew. Brent Spiner revealed that Data would not be a member of  Star Trek: Picard 's main cast, but would instead pop up here and there. In terms of tone, Patrick Stewart suggested that certain " terrifying " real-world elements of the current political climate would find their way into  Star Trek: Picard in a subtle fashion.

The cast also reaffirmed that Picard's dog would, rather brilliantly, be called Number One and, in a further interview with  TV Line , Hugh Borg's role in  Star Trek: Picard was revealed as the leader of a Borg colony.

These helpful new details provide additional context to the footage seen in the  Star Trek: Picard trailer . It was fairly clear that the crew Picard joins forces with were not an official unit, but the fact that Santiago Cabrera's character is, like Jean-Luc, a former member of Starfleet explains why the two sides trust each other and come together. It's also reassuring that this new crew won't have the same Enterprise-esque dynamic, with Picard as captain, since this would tread too closely to  Star Trek: The Next Generation territory.

With regards to Data's surprise appearance in the  Star Trek: Picard trailer , Brent Spiner's assertion that the android is not a main character may add fuel to the theory that he's actually some form of hologram. Upon the trailer's release, many suspected that Picard was actually playing cards with a virtual version of Data, rather than the real deal, and being a supporting character certainly adds weight to that suggestion. Whatever the size of his role may be, many fans will simply be delighted to see Spiner return to the  Star Trek franchise.

More: Star Trek: Picard Should Flashback To TNG's Stargazer (& Jack Crusher)

Star Trek: Picard premieres in 2020 on CBS All Access.

Source: IGN , TV Line

'Star Trek: Picard': How Jean-Luc Picard's dog Number One got his name and why he is an Easter egg on the show

'Star Trek: Picard' took off on January 23 and wasted no time in explaining why the revered captain of Starfleet, Jean-Luc Picard, was cut off from all action and was living out the rest of his life in beloved France.

After a Romulan rescue mission went disastrously wrong, Picard lost faith in the Federation and believed that it didn't hold true to its ideals anymore. He returned to La Barre in France, with two Romulan staffers and his dog, Number One.

Why the name Number One? 

Talking to Wil Wheaton on the show 'The Ready Room', series showrunner and Executive Producer Michael Chabon revealed that the new Number One  was there from the beginning. "Pretty early on," Chabon said when asked when the choice was made to give him that name.

 "As soon as the first draft was getting written I think it appeared at that point. It's meant to be...it's an Easter egg, and it's cute and charming, but there's something also kind of poignant about it, to me at least. He doesn't have a Number 1, those days are behind him," he shared.

"William Riker's long gone in his life and there's almost something sort of touching that he's trying to recreate in the form of a dog, which is not a bad thing to try to do. [There's] so much that he's lost, so much that he's left behind," he added.

As 'Star Trek: Next Generation' fans remember, Number One, is what Picard used to call William Riker, to emphasize his role as the Enterprise's First Officer.

While Picard's wounds about the disastrous Romulan mission haven't healed, there's a part of him that still holds on to his old glory days. Number One is also a symbol of all the pain and his yearning for past glories that Picard has carried around with him for the last two decades. 

'Star Trek: Picard' airs on CBS-All Access on Thursdays.

GameSpot may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and from purchases through links.

Star Trek: Picard's Dog Means Much More Than You Might Expect

"The dog was my idea."

By Mat Elfring on January 12, 2020 at 4:56PM PST

While the CBS All Access series Star Trek: Picard hasn't aired yet, it's already gotten the green light for a second season . But before the series airs, the show's star Patrick Stewart explains just where Jean-Luc Picard's dog, which we've seen in one of the promotional posters for the series, comes from.

At the TCA winter press tour, Picard had a presentation where Stewart was in attendance discussion the upcoming All Access series, including how this dog was incorporated into the series. "Like so many things on this show, it has a great deal to do with me," Patrick jokingly explained. "The dog was my idea."

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Now Playing: Star Trek: The History of Jean-Luc Picard

"Picard's life has changed. He's troubled, disturbed, lonely, and with feelings of a strange, unnatural guilt. To just see him with a dog seemed to me to write a lot of things that didn't have to be said. Because the presence of the dog alone shows he is looking for some form of comfort, which he can't find anywhere else."

The upcoming series, which takes place years after the events of The Next Generation, follows the titular character who has settled into a much calmer life, on Earth. A placard at New York Comic-Con , designed to share information about the series, read:"Since resigning from Starfleet, Admiral Jean-Luc Picard has lived a somewhat reclusive life on his family estate in La Barre, France. All of that changes when he receives an unexpected visitor and is once more drawn back to the galactic stage."

The new Star Trek series will feature many familiar faces from Star Trek: TNG, including Brent Spiner as Data, Jonathan Frakes as Riker, and Marina Sirtis as Deanna Troi, plus Jeri Ryan as Seven of Nine from Star Trek: Voyager. For more, check out the latest trailer and GameSpot's guide to everything we know so far about Star Trek: Picard .

Star Trek: Picard debuts on CBS All Access on January 23.

Disclosure: CBS All Access is owned by ViacomCBS, GameSpot's parent company.

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Picard's dog's name in Star Trek spin-off is confirmed, and it's perfect

The name of Jean-Luc Picard’s dog has been confirmed, and it’s rather perfect.

Picard’s pooch — first glimpsed in the upcoming Star Trek spin-off’s poster and teaser photo above — is, of course…”Number One.”

Some enterprising fans ( ahem ) suspected this from the poster where if you zoom-in on the dog’s Starfleet insignia-shaped tag — there’s a “No. 1” on it — but CBS All Access has now confirmed that “Number One” is indeed the good boy’s name.

As much as we might enjoy Star Trek: Picard showing a retired Picard pretending to relive his glory days on a French vineyard while ordering around his pup to “make it so” like a groveling Will Riker, the series will actually follow the former Admiral back to the stars as he undertakes a dangerous mission without the help of Starfleet.

The confirmation comes as CBS revealed the first full trailer for Picard at Comic-Con, and Patrick Stewart noted the dog’s real name is De Niro.

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Stewart: Why Picard Has A Dog

• Cast & Crew
• Star Trek: Picard

Jean-Luc Picard has a pit bull dog in Star Trek: Picard and that is due to Sir Patrick Stewart.

The actor explained why he wanted a dog in the show. “I wanted a dog because I have, only in the last four years, renewed my acquaintance with dogs,” he said. “I had a dog, a border collie, when I was little and nothing since then. I thought all we need to do is to have a dog at Picard’s side. And that, without any dialogue or any dramatic reference, will say a lot about this man, that he now has a dog always at his side.”

But why a pit bull? “Well, I am obsessed with pit bulls,” said Stewart. “What a dog, and how ill used they have been, appalling used. In England they’re a banned breed. I adopted my first pit bull and we already were excited about the thought of taking her back to England, and we couldn’t do it. They won’t be let in the country. I even talked to the British Embassy in Washington about it and they said, ‘There’s nothing we can do.’ I’m now part of a campaign working in the UK to get this legislation changed because they are the most sensitive, the most loving, the most giving, the most affectionate creatures that you could ever possibly hope to meet.”

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Picard Has a Dog Now

Jean-Luc Picard has been through some shit by the time we re-meet him in Star Trek: Picard . He’s left Starfleet, retired to a life of making wine and mourning his regrets. Whatever is a man to do when he’s going through some stuff? Get a dog, of course.

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Patrick Stewart has just dropped a brand new poster for Picard , just ahead of the show—alongside Discovery and the upcoming animated series Lower Decks —heading to San Diego Comic-Con next week. It’s got everything you could want: Vineyards! Casks of Chateau Picard! Patrick Stewart in a rustic space cape (space jacket cape? Oh who cares, it looks fab)! It’s got...a dog !

Yes, Jean-Luc has picked himself up a pup in the years between Nemesis and Star Trek: Picard , and he’s even given it a Starfleet command delta as a tag. Which is very cute! It’s also made cuter by the real-life fact that Stewart himself has long been an advocate for fostering dogs, championing rescue services through his social media accounts, mainly in the form of the best use of social media around: pictures of Patrick Stewart overjoyed by the presence of tiny little puppers:

Adorable. So are the dogs.

Carrying that personal connection over to Jean-Luc—aside from the connotations of Picard getting himself a dog to help deal with the traumas he’s faced —is a lovely touch, and speaks to the deep involvement Stewart himself has had in the return of one of his most beloved roles.

Just please, I know Jean-Luc’s going through things in this show but...don’t John Wick that pup, CBS. Please. I couldn’t bear to watch Picard go through that. We’ll bring you more on Picard as we learn it.

INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT PUPDATE 1:32PM EST: Our incredibly eagle-eyed friends over at Trek Core have spotted that the dog’s Delta collar appears to say ‘No. 1':

Did Jean-Luc really name his dog Number One? Our hearts are melting.

For more, make sure you’re following us on our new Instagram @ io9dotcom .

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Patrick Stewart Gets a Dog in New 'Star Trek: Picard' Poster Released Ahead of Comic-Con Panel

The British actor is reprising his  Star Trek: Next Generation role for a new series on CBS All Access

It looks like even retired Starfleet captains need a pet!

The new poster for the upcoming Star Trek: Picard series reveals that Patrick Stewart ‘s character, Jean-Luc Picard, has himself a new furry friend.

The poster features Stewart, 78, as the brooding captain standing atop a hill, overlooking his vineyard. It seems as though the retired Picard has a pet dog now — and the pup even has a Starfleet emblem on his collar.

Celestial clouds and planets hide a sun’s beams in the sky of the poster, and some futuristic buildings loom in the far distance.

Stewart famously portrayed the Starfleet captain on the Star Trek: Next Generation series, which aired from 1987 to 1994.

The veteran British actor is reprising the role for a new series from CBS All Access, which is expected to debut later this year. Star Trek: Picard picks up 15 years after Picard decided to leave the Federation’s service, according to a previously released teaser trailer .

RELATED VIDEO: Friends of ‘Star Trek’ Actress Nichelle Nichols, 86, React to Video of Her Screaming

In the clip, a woman’s voice off-screen celebrates Picard’s career before asking him why he left Star Fleet. While she is speaking, Stewart walks around a beautiful vineyard with celestial bodies looming in the distance, seemingly going through the process of making his very own wine.

“Fifteen years ago, today, you led us out of the darkness,” the woman’s voice says in the trailer. “You commanded the greatest rescue armada in history. Then, the unimaginable.”

“What did that cost you?” the woman continues, as futuristic farming techniques are shown off on the vineyard. “Your faith? Your faith in us? Your faith in yourself?”

Chateau Picard wine bottles are then set down, as the woman says, “Why did you leave Starfleet, admiral?”

Finally, we see Stewart as Picard, looking straight into the camera as the trailer ends.

CBS is bringing the show to San Diego Comic-Con next week, and more details are expected to emerge from the panel.

Alison Pill, Michelle Hurd, Evan Evagora, Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera and Harry Treadaway will also star.

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Star Trek: Picard

Follow-up series to Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) and Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) that centers on Jean-Luc Picard in the next chapter of his life. Follow-up series to Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) and Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) that centers on Jean-Luc Picard in the next chapter of his life. Follow-up series to Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) and Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) that centers on Jean-Luc Picard in the next chapter of his life.

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• 2.8K User reviews
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• 14 wins & 54 nominations total

Episodes 30

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Did you know

• Trivia The Chateau Picard vineyard first appeared in Family (1990) . It was run by Jean-Luc Picard's brother Robert and his wife Marie, and their son René. Jean-Luc would learn in Star Trek: Generations (1994) that Robert and René had both burned to death in a fire, leaving Jean-Luc as the last in the Picard line.
• Goofs Commodore Oh often wears sunglasses. Star Trek lore establishes that Vulcans have an inner eyelid to protect against harsh sunlight on their desert planet. Oh's shades are a fashion statement, not a protective measure.
• The first season features a Borg cube and the planet Romulus.
• The second season features a Borg ship, a wormhole and hourglass, and the Borg Queen's silhouette.
• The third season does not have an opening titles sequence.
• Connections Featured in Half in the Bag: Comic Con 2019, The Picard Trailer, Streaming Services, and Midsommar (2019)

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• January 23, 2020 (United States)
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• Runtime 46 minutes
• Dolby Digital

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