What Kind Of Dog Is Winn-Dixie? Breed Information, Pictures, and Facts

Adapted from Kate DiCamillo’s beloved novel, Because of Winn-Dixie (2005) is an uplifting film about friendship, family, redemption, and acceptance. With a talented cast that includes AnnaSophia Robb, Jeff Daniels, and Cicely Tyson, and set against the stunning Florida countryside, Because of Winn-Dixie is a feel-good movie that is bound to make you smile. And of course, the canine star of the movie, Winn-Dixie, is a lovable scruffy pup that you’ll instantly fall in love with. But what kind of dog is Winn-Dixie?

Who Is Winn-Dixie?

The heartwarming 2005 film Because of Winn-Dixie revolves around a spunky young girl named Opal and her unexpected canine companion. Opal and her father move to a little town in Florida where she struggles to make friends and feels very disconnected. However, one day while at the local Winn-Dixie store, she stumbles upon a scruffy, troublemaking dog. Fearing for the dog’s safety, Opal claims to be the dog’s owner, naming him “Winn-Dixie”. It doesn’t take too long for her new canine companion to transform Opal for the better. He helps her open up to the people in her new community, and she and Winn-Dixie help them to open up and connect in return.

What Kind of Dog Is Winn-Dixie?

Winn-Dixie is a Berger Picard. A native of France, the Berger Picard is a very old herding dog breed that can be traced back to at least the ninth century. In fact, herding dogs that look like Berger Picards are depicted in many older works, from tapestries to woodcuts and engravings. Unfortunately, the Berger Picard almost disappeared completely during both World War I and World War II. Although they’ve made a comeback in recent years, Berger Picards are still extremely rare, especially in the United States. 

The director of Because of Winn-Dixie, Wayne Wang, wanted a scruffy dog that looked like the cover of the original novel. However, scruffy, mixed-breed dogs each have their own individual and unique appearance, and Wang needed several different dogs for filming. So, he decided to go with the Berger Picard breed. Since Berger Picard dogs are quite rare, and there weren’t any available in the U.S. at the time. They brought at least four dogs over from Europe to portray Winn-Dixie in the film.

The Berger Picard gets its name from the Picardy region of France. Some believe it shares some ancestry with other French herding dogs like the Beauceron and Briard, or possibly even Belgian and Dutch shepherds. However, due to its scruffy appearance, the Berger Picard was not recognized as its own official breed until 1925. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) accepted the Berger Picard in 1955. The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted the Berger Picard as an official breed in July 2015.

Berger Picard Appearance

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized French herding dog with a lean body, measuring 21.5 to 25.5 inches tall at the shoulder. These unique pups weigh 50 to 70 pounds and have strong bones and a sturdy build. They’re basically the perfect size for snuggling up with on the couch, but also strong enough to handle any adventures you want to take them on.

Berger Picard dogs have distinctive profiles, with tall erect ears and wavy fur coats. Their hair may look soft and scruffy, but it is actually wiry and waterproof. They have thick and bushy eyebrows, but you can still see the dog’s penetrating eyes and iconic smile. Berger Picard dogs have fawn or brindle-colored hair, with strong tails that taper into a J-shape. 

Berger Picard Behavior

Berner Picard dogs are both clever and kind-hearted canines. They are also very smart and great at solving problems on their own. They have an independent streak that often lends itself to stubbornness. However, Burger Picard dogs are also even-tempered, easygoing, and love to be with their families. They can be somewhat reserved with strangers, but they’re not timid or nervous dogs.

Berger Picard dogs are natural-born herding dogs that need lots of exercise. They are best for active families who can keep up with their non-stop energy. These energetic dogs were originally bred to work in the fields and are well known for their athletic ability, stamina, and drive. A long walk each day is a must for the Berger Picard. They also love joining their humans for a game of fetch, as well as bike rides, hikes, and even swimming. Many Berger Picards participate in various dog sports and competitions. 

While they certainly have a playful side, Berger Picard dogs are sensitive and don’t like being alone for very long. If you leave them to their own devices, these dogs quickly become bored and can be destructive. These dogs make amazing companions when you give them plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation.