Briard

Strong and graceful, the Briard is a cherished herding dog recognized for its curly fur. Their hair is split down the center, giving them a look fit for a hair product ad, along with a refined beard and wise eyebrows. Intelligent, enthusiastic, and alert—particularly when children are around, whom they see as part of their group—the Briard is a hardworking and loyal companion that tackles every task with energy.

Quick Info

Size
Large
Colours
Various shades of fawn, with or without markings around the face, ears, and back; slate gray, or black
Lifespan
12 years
Height
55 to 100 pounds
Type
Livestock
Hypoallergenic
yes
Weight
55 to 100 pounds
Family

Personality

Loyal and affectionate, the Briard is a self-assured dog that loves to make its owners happy. They thrive on joining their humans in all sorts of fun activities and adventures. While they may be shy around new people, they are excellent at guarding the home. The Briard feels most comfortable at home and can be quite the homebody, so it’s essential for them to socialize with others.

History

The Briard is the oldest among the four breeds of French Sheepdogs. This breed has been shown in artwork since the 8th century. The name "Briard" was first recorded in the early 1800s. Initially, these dogs served as protectors, keeping French properties safe from threats, both animal and human. After the French Revolution, their roles expanded, and they also became herding dogs. The Briard made its way to America early on, and there are records suggesting that Thomas Jefferson owned one.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owners for Briard dogs are those who lead an active lifestyle and can keep up with the dog’s energy and love for the outdoors. It’s also important for owners to dedicate time to care for the dog’s lengthy fur. Although Briards are very affectionate with their families, they tend to be wary of unfamiliar people, which may cause them to bark. These dogs thrive in homes located in suburban or countryside settings.

Exercise Needs

The Briard is very active and requires plenty of time to run freely, go for walks on a leash, receive training, and even swim. Along with these physical activities, it’s important to provide mental challenges through games that encourage problem-solving and enrichment.

Space Requirements

The Briard is a big dog that tends to get muddy and wet, so it needs room to clean off and dry. A yard with a fence is perfect for them, along with different walking paths. They thrive in country settings, particularly on farms, but they can also adapt to suburban life.

Training

Training a Briard can be straightforward if you know what drives them. These dogs are independent thinkers and often prefer to make their own choices, which can sometimes make them a bit stubborn. Using rewards and treats can be effective ways to encourage them to pay attention and obey commands. It's also crucial to socialize them early and continuously, as they tend to be wary of unfamiliar people.

Grooming

To keep the Briard's thick fur from tangling and to reduce shedding, it requires regular brushing and combing.

Suitability for Family Life

The Briard is a fantastic family pet that truly enjoys being with its loved ones. However, due to their size and playful nature, especially as young pups, they are better suited for families with older kids or those without children.

Did You know?

Briards have appeared in various films and television series, including Dharma & Greg, Dennis the Menace, and Looney Tunes, among others. These dogs are deeply attached to their families and often show signs of sadness when they are apart. Additionally, Briards can serve as service dogs or therapy dogs.

Similar Breeds

Old English Sheepdog
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Puli

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys vigorous walks
Large dog
Some drool
Requires frequent grooming
Chatty and vocal dog