Heroes on the battlefields of the Great War, the smart and hard-working Briards helped medics find wounded soldiers. This shaggy smartie has been in the United States since the country's founding—experts think a Briard might have followed Thomas Jefferson home from France.
These medium-sized and medium-energy dogs can grow to between 55-100 pounds and live an average of 10-12 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Herding group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Origin | France |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Average lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 108 |
| Family | Livestock, herding |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Herding and guarding sheep |
| Today's function | Herding trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 23-27 Weight: 75-100 |
| Average size of female | Height: 22-25.5 Weight: 50-65 |
| Other name | Berger de Brie |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A BRIARD'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Maximum dog in a medium-sized package, a Briard craves your attention. These bright, confident, devoted beauties can be playful and affectionate, but they live to work. They tend to be friendly toward children and other dogs but do best playing supervised with both. With socialization, they can get along with other pets—but be cautious. These herders sometimes like to chase!
WHAT IS BRIARD BEHAVIOR LIKE?
A Briard needs room to run and lots of exercise, so plan for daily trips to the dog park or bring your pup along on your morning run! These dogs are highly vigilant and protective of their chosen people. They're especially so of any kids they consider “theirs.” Briards can also be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A BRIARD?
These are smart, trainable dogs, but the Briard has a mind of its own. Start early and be patient and consistent with your pup. It's important to socialize your Briard while she's young.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO BRIARDS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Briars have a lot of hair, so plan for daily brushing to avoid tangles and matting. Their long double coats are lush and full. The dense inner layer is short covered by a long outer layer. They slough off dirt and water, so these dogs won't require frequent baths. They're also minimal shedders, and frequent brushing can help mitigate loose hair when they do shed.
Their furry faces can collect food while they eat, so your Briard might also need tidying after meals.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO BRIARDS HAVE?
This breed is usually healthy. Some have develop cancer. Like many dogs, Briards can be predisposed to dental disease—in fact, this breed is more likely than most to have problems with teeth. They can also tend toward pudginess, so be mindful about meals and treats.
Briards are particularly prone to bloat, a condition that requires immediate attention from your veterinarian. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) and contact your vet at once if you suspect your dog might be suffering from this ailment.
