General Description

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The Briard is a herding and working breed with a strong, large, muscular body and an elegant, agile gait that makes them appear to float when they walk. Their muzzles are long and square-shaped and feature a black nose. Ears of this breed are usually clipped in a rounded shape so that hair falls from them attractively. They have a long, feathered tail with a crochet hook at its tip. Briards have a slightly wavy double coat that is 6 or more inches in length. The coat is bushiest at the beard, eyebrows, and mustache. Coat colors include black, gray, and tawny. The coat color will become darker and lighter over the course of the dog’s lifetime.

Character

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The Briard is a working dog with instinctual herding tendencies. They are kind animals with strong protective tendencies. Known for their excellent hearing and watching abilities, the Briard is an alert, loyal, and fearless watchdog. They are obedient, very trainable, and are extremely intelligent. Briards should be trained firmly because of their propensity to take initiative and think for themselves. Because of the devotion, attention, and energy required of their owners, the Briard isn’t recommended for everyone. They are a challenge to raise, so many Briards wind up in shelters. The Briard is dedicated to itsr family and is usually disinterested or leery of other people. When socialized early and properly, the Briard is very good-natured and makes a wonderful family pet. This breed needs plenty of love and affection, but they need a firm owner. Poor training can lead to an onset of aggression within this breed.

General Health

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The Briard is a basically healthy breed. Like other large dog breeds, some Briard lines are prone to hip dysplasia. Less prominent health concerns for this breed include PRA and cataracts. Because of the Briard’s large chest, he is also susceptible to bloat and stomach torsion. If left untreated, stomach torsion can be potentially life-threatening. The Briard usually lives for about 10 to 12 years. The breed averages 8 to 10 puppies per litter.

History

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An ancient sheep guarding and herding breed that has been known for several centuries, the Briard has been owned by historical figures like Charlemagne, Napoleon, Lafayette, and Thomas Jefferson. The Briard has also been utilized by the French Army as a sentry and messenger. After 1863, the Briard gained its popularity because of the change in its look that was exhibited at the Paris dog show. This attractive physical appearance was achieved through the crossing of the Beauceron and the Barbet. While it isn’t likely that the breed originated in France, the Briard is said to be named after the French province of Brie. Briards are usually kept as pets in contemporary society, but they have a number of useful working abilities like herding, flocking, guardianship, police & military work, and rescuing.

Maintenance

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Briards have a coarse, strong coat that repels dirt and water. The Briard rarely sheds if he is properly groomed. Owners of this breed should take extra grooming care so the dog stays healthy and looks presentable. The Briard’s coat is prone to matting and the inside of the Briard’s ears should be kept clean.

Ideal Environment

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The Briard is a working breed that will become antsy without proper exercise. They can live in a small household or apartment if they are exercised on a daily basis. They are comparatively active indoors and are happiest with a minimum of an average-sized yard. Briards are not suited for life in a kennel. While this breed loves spending time outdoors, they are happiest with their families.

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