Considering getting a Briard? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Briard breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.
Briard
The Briard has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Origin
The Briard originated in France and is believed to be centuries old, dating back to at least the 8th century. The early Briards were working dogs that defended the stock from wolves and poachers. They later transitioned into sheep herders and guardians of farms and families.
Size
The Briard weighs 70 to 90 pounds and measures 22 to 27 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Briard has a long double coat and requires a good brushing every day. The Briard has to be brushed all the way down to the skin or the coat can mat. The Briard also needs a bath every six weeks. The Briard’s long coat picks up snow, mud and debris easily. If not being shown, the Briard can be clipped or shaved to make grooming easier. The hair around the eyes does require a regular trim to help the dog see.
Like all dogs, the Briard also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Briard is faithful and protective.
Temperament
The Briard is known as the “heart wrapped in fur” dog. The Briard is affectionate, loving and highly people oriented. Although large, the Briard is by no means an outdoor dog. The Briard adores their family and wants to be with them, in the home, as much as possible. They will follow their family members from room to room to soak up as much attention as possible. Briards can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
The Briard is deeply devoted to their family and, as such, is naturally protective of them. The Briard is bold and alert, not much gets by them. Briards can be standoffish with strangers, but are friendly and welcoming to those they know.
Training Needs
The Briard is intelligent, but stubborn and wants to be the dominant member of the household. The Briard needs a firm, consistent handler and responds especially well to rewards like treats. With the right handler, the Briard can be easily trained and go on to compete in agility, obedience, herding, flyball and conformation.
As part of their training, the Briard needs early socialization. They can be protective to the point of excess if not socialized with lots of people and other dogs early and continuously.
Activity Level
The Briard needs lots of exercise and activity to be happy. The Briard is athletic and agile, making them good jogging and hiking partners. At the very least, the Briard needs a long daily walk and regular time outside in a secure area to run around and play.
