Basic Information To Know About The Briard

The Briard (sometimes called the "Berger Briard" or "Berger de Brie") is among the oldest French herding breeds and features a shaggy black, gray or tawny coat that has often led to them being mistaken for a haystack. The breed has origins dating back to the 1300s, and they were first bred for the main purpose of guarding homes and sheep from intruders and predators.

A few of their most recognizable features include their fearless and protective temperament - which help make the Briard a suitable choice for a family guard dog, herding and guarding sheep, military or police work and search and rescue.

The Briard was originally created in France during the 1300s and was bred for the initial purpose of guarding homes and flocks of sheep from wolves and human intruders but later was primarily used for herding sheep. In World War I they were used for delivering messages and locating wounded soldiers, and during this time they nearly became extinct. They are
believed to be a descendant of the Berger Picard with later cross-breeding occurring with the Beauceron and Barbet.

Briards are classed as a large-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the Briard male is 23-27 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 75-100 pounds, whereas the recommended size for female Briards is 22-25.5 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of 50-65 pounds.

The Briard is well-known for their protective, fearless and loyal temperament. They are generally reserved with strangers, which can make them highly suitable as a guard dog.

The Briard is also known to be quite intelligent - ranking equal 30th compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be gentle with children but may try to herd them without proper training - making them fairly suitable as a family pet. The Briard is not always compatible with other dogs and may become aggressive due to their protective nature but when socialized properly they can learn to get along with other pets.

The Briard is happiest with at least an average-sized yard to run around in, but they can be somewhat suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough. They love the outdoors but feel most at home wherever their family is.

The Briard enjoys activities such as agility, flyball, herding, tracking, swimming or going for a jog alongside a bicycle. They have a medium level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of long walks or jogs to keep them in good physical and mental health.

The Briard can make the perfect dog for an active owner who will be their firm and confident leader. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a high amount of grooming and take time to give them early socialization with children or other pets and obedience training to establish leadership as well as take them for long daily walks and give a very high amount of companionship and attention - they thrive on human contact and do not like to be left alone all day. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable in many households, if you are able to meet their needs for firm guidance and attention then the Briard could make the ideal dog breed for you.

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