The PSHF is dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge of genetics in the Pyrenean Shepherd (Berger des Pyrénées), and the inherited diseases from which it sometimes suffers. We envision serving all Pyr Sheps, no matter what their purpose, the goals of their owners, or where they live. The PSHF will work both independently, and in cooperation with owners, breeders, researchers, breed clubs, and canine health organizations.

Our breed is known for its soundness and versatility; with some dogs performing the job they were originally created to do; some as top competitors in conformation, agility, obedience, rally, tracking, stockdog trials, and other events; and many as beloved family companions. These many areas of activity involve people of differing backgrounds and goals, but canine hereditary disease is a reality for all of us.

Hereditary diseases are a growing breed issue. Without access to information about those diseases, breeders and owners cannot make informed decisions. Without breed specific research, modes of inheritance will not be determined for our breed, nor will DNA screening tests be developed. Research requires both data and funding, both of which must largely come from people within the breed.

We have created the PSHF website to provide information about the PSHF, and Pyr Shep genetics, as well as to offer links to other sites of interest.

See also: Terms of Use

Special thanks to the following for their help and contributions to this site and to the foundation:

• Susan Buttivant (Chaparral) - Breeder, owner, handler of Pyrenean Shepherds (Bergers des Pyrénées) and Petits Bassets Griffons Vendéens, writer and speaker on various canine publications. Education Committee for the Pyrenean Shepherd Club of America.
  
  
• Rhonda Hovan (Faera) - Breeder, owner, handler, and health and genetics writer. Research Facilitator GRCA, Advisory Board of the National Canine Cancer Foundation, and Emeritus Director of the OFA. 2002 Dog Writers Aassociation of America Special Award Winner, Veterinary Information Network Health Education Award, and the Eukanuba Canine Health Award.
  
  
• C.A. Sharp - Journal published science writer, and internationally recognized lay expert on canine genetics and hereditary diseases. President of ASHGI. Dog Writers Association of America Finalist, Maxwell Award winner, and first recipient of AKC Canine Health Foundation's Golden Paw Award.
  
  

(Please be aware that currently the PSHF does not have IRS not-for-profit status, and is not allowed to be a conduit by which interested individuals may make tax deductible donations. If you are interested in making tax-deductible donations, we encourage you to support other health foundations which may offer tax-deductible donation options.)