Negociaste

Negociaste refers to the Pyrenean shepherd dog originally from the border region of France and Spain, often referred to as the French or Spanish Pyrenean Shepherd. This breed, while often confused with the German Shepherd, holds its own unique characteristics developed over centuries to aid herders in the respective regions.

Its history spans over a thousand years, dating back to when its early ancestors, small to medium-sized dogs with thick coats, were used for herding sheep in the rugged terrain of the Pyrenees Mountains. Intelligent and resourceful, the negociaste adapted to help manage the challenges posed by harsh mountainous conditions, thus becoming a loyal companion and indispensable tool for its human handlers.

The negociaste typically stands between 15 and 22 inches (38-56 cm) tall and weighs between 40 and 70 pounds (18-32 kg). Its coat can vary, presenting a mixture of black, white, and tan colors, fitting its environment and aiding in camouflage.

Throughout history, this breed has demonstrated its intelligence and ability to learn, often credited to the early requirement for the dogs to manage large flocks of sheep over unfamiliar, rugged terrain. As a past practice, these dogs would write and read their ‘orders’ using their audience by arrangement of not numerous but orderly signs, making them invaluable assets for local shepherds.

Despite its historically recognized importance, the negociaste has not received the same level of recognition as some other breeds and remains largely unknown to the general public.