Briard

Ultimate Dog Wiki

When you think of a sheepdog, you might picture something like Lassie, bounding across the fields with heroic determination, or perhaps a Border Collie, intensely focused and likely a bit too smart for its own good. But there’s another, lesser-known champion of the herding world: the Briard. With a history as grand as its stature and a personality that blends the fierce loyalty of a guard dog with the affection of a teddy bear, the Briard has been winning hearts and guarding flocks for centuries.

Lifespawn

Approximately 12 years.

Weight

Males: 34 to 41 kg (75 to 90 lbs); Females: slightly lighter.

Height

Males: 61 to 69 cm (24 to 27 inches); Females: 58 to 65 cm (22 to 26 inches) at the shoulder.

Colours

Solid black, fawn, grey, or blue; fawn overlaid with black.

Size

Large.

Breed Group

Herding.

Quick Facts

  • Best for experienced owners who can provide consistent training and socialization.
  • Highly intelligent and eager to learn, thriving with positive reinforcement.
  • Full of energy, requiring plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy.
  • A large-sized breed with an athletic and powerful build.
  • Minimal drooling, keeping things clean and easy to manage.
  • High grooming needs, with regular brushing essential to keep their coat in top condition.
  • Not hypoallergenic, with seasonal shedding that requires extra care.
  • Occasionally vocal, barking to alert or during play.
  • Naturally protective and watchful, excelling as a family watchdog.
  • Generally good with other pets, though early socialization helps manage herding instincts.
  • Good with kids, but supervision is important due to their size and energy.

History and Origin

The French needed a dog that could think, fight, and guard. From this need, the Briard emerged. The historical record supports this conclusion, though like many ancient working dogs, the breed’s early development contains elements of uncertainty.

The first verified documentation of Briard-like dogs appears in a 1379 manuscript by the Comte de Foix, which describes large herding dogs guarding flocks in the French countryside. These dogs protected against wolves and thieves, matching the Briard’s description in both form and function. Earlier references, such as claims of Charlemagne’s chronicles mentioning similar dogs in the 8th century, remain speculative and lack definitive historical corroboration.

The breed’s name stems from the Brie region of France, though historical accounts indicate these dogs were found throughout French agricultural areas. By the late 18th century, the Briard’s reputation as a working dog was firmly established. Military records confirm their service as sentries in Napoleon’s army, marking the beginning of their documented military roles.

In 1789, Thomas Jefferson’s correspondence provides precise documentation of the breed’s arrival in America. As the Ambassador to France, Jefferson imported several Briards to his farm in Virginia. In his letters, he praised them as “superior workers”, detailing their abilities in herding and guarding roles.

The Briard’s journey to fame kicked off in 1863, strutting its shaggy stuff at a Paris dog show. It was love at first sight for French sheepdog fans, but at this stage, the breed was more of a “diamond in the fluff.”

Fast forward to 1897, when the Club Français du Chien de Berger decided it was time to get official. They laid down the first set of “Briard rules,” making sure everyone knew these dogs weren’t just about good looks—they were hardworking herders with brains to match.

But it wasn’t until 1925 that the Briard truly hit its stride. That year, a polished and definitive breed standard was rolled out, spotlighting its signature heavy coat, sturdy build, and all-around majestic vibes. From scruffy sheepdog to certified icon, the Briard’s rise to stardom was complete!

The World Wars brought devastation but also distinction to the breed.

Military records document their service as sentries, messengers, and search-and-rescue dogs. They carried supplies through artillery fire, located wounded soldiers, and worked in the trenches. The French army’s medical corps kept detailed accounts of their contributions, cementing the Briard’s reputation as a military asset.

Between the wars, Marcel Moniot’s breeding program at du Lac de Marseille proved crucial in defining the modern Briard. His meticulous records show careful selection for both working ability and a standardized appearance. The breed’s American Kennel Club (AKC) recognition came in 1928, though the Briard remained relatively rare outside France for much of the 20th century.

Today’s Briard maintains the traditional characteristics described in historical records: the protective double coat, the robust build, and the intelligence that made them indispensable to French shepherds. Modern breeding programs emphasize preserving these traits while addressing contemporary health concerns such as hip dysplasia and genetic eye conditions.

DNA studies confirm the Briard as one of France’s oldest distinct herding breeds, supporting its historical role in French agriculture. These studies align with the practical needs that shaped the breed: a dog capable of independent work, clear thinking, and effective protection.



Physical Characteristics

The Briard is a large and powerful herding breed, known for its impressive size and agility. Originally bred in France as a herding and guard dog, the Briard is well-built and muscular, designed for endurance in the field.

  • Males typically stand between 23 to 27 inches (58–69 cm) at the shoulder and weigh 70 to 100 pounds (32–45 kg).
  • Females are slightly smaller, standing 22 to 25.5 inches (56–65 cm) tall and weighing 55 to 75 pounds (25–34 kg).

Their substantial size allows them to perform their traditional roles of herding and guarding livestock while maintaining agility and endurance.

The Briard’s coat is one of its defining features, providing protection from the elements while working in various outdoor environments. The coat is thick, dense, and offers excellent insulation in cold weather.

  • Texture: The coat is long and coarse, often described as goat-like in texture. It consists of a slightly wavy outer coat that is tough and weather-resistant, with a fine, soft undercoat that provides insulation. The coat can grow up to 6 inches in length, giving the dog a shaggy, almost rustic appearance.
  • Color: The Briard’s coat can come in a variety of solid colors, including black, gray, and various shades of tawny. Some individuals may also have lighter or darker shadings, but solid colors are preferred in the breed standard.

This dense and durable coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its protective function.

Several unique features give the Briard its characteristic appearance and utility in the field:

  • Head and Expression: The Briard has a large, strong head, with a well-defined stop and a square muzzle. Its eyes, though often hidden behind its long hair, are dark and set wide apart, giving it an intelligent, watchful expression.
  • Ears: Briards have high-set ears that are either cropped to stand erect (in some regions) or left naturally pendant, hanging close to the head. Both ear styles contribute to the breed’s alert and inquisitive appearance.
  • Body and Build: The Briard’s body is robust and muscular, with a deep chest and strong limbs that provide it with great endurance and agility. Its body is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a balanced, athletic silhouette ideal for long days of herding.
  • Tail: Their long, feathered tail is carried low with a slight upward curve at the tip, often described as a “J”-shaped crook, which is a hallmark of the breed.



Temperament and Behavior

The Briard is renowned for its intelligence and independence, making it an excellent working dog but also a breed that requires consistent training.

  • Trainability: Briards are quick learners, but their independent nature means they require a firm, patient handler who can provide clear guidance and boundaries. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods, including praise and rewards. Due to their high intelligence, they can become easily bored, so training sessions should be varied and engaging to keep their attention.
  • Working Instincts: Bred primarily as a herding dog, the Briard has a natural protective instinct and excels in roles that require problem-solving and quick decision-making. Their herding instincts remain strong, and they may naturally attempt to herd family members or other pets.

Early socialization and training are critical to ensuring that the Briard becomes a well-adjusted adult, especially given its natural tendency toward independence and protectiveness.

The Briard is a high-energy breed that thrives on activity. They were bred for long days of herding, which means they require ample daily exercise to remain healthy and happy.

  • Exercise Requirements: Briards need at least 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, including long walks, runs, or off-leash play in a securely fenced area. They excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience trials, and herding events, which provide both physical and mental stimulation.
  • Playfulness: While they are serious workers, Briards also have a playful, affectionate side. They enjoy interactive games like fetch, tug-of-war, or simply playing with their families in the yard. Their playful energy can be channeled into structured activities like obedience or herding trials, which keep them mentally sharp and engaged.

Without sufficient exercise, Briards can become restless and may develop undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking or chewing.

This breed forms strong bonds with its owners and is known for its protective nature.

  • Loyalty: Briards are deeply loyal and have strong guarding instincts. They are often described as velcro dogs because they tend to follow their owners closely and want to be involved in family activities. Their protective instincts can make them excellent watchdogs, alerting their families to potential threats.
  • Affectionate Nature: Despite their size and strength, Briards are gentle with children and other family members, making them excellent companions for families. They are known for being patient and affectionate, often showing a playful and tender side with those they love.

Their protective nature means they may be wary of strangers, so early socialization is important to ensure they are friendly and well-mannered around new people.



Caring and Grooming

The Briard’s long, dense coat requires regular grooming to maintain its health and prevent matting.

  • Brushing: Briards need to be brushed at least 2 to 3 times a week using a pin brush or slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, especially in areas prone to matting like the underbelly, legs, and behind the ears. For active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, more frequent brushing may be required.
  • Trimming: While the Briard’s coat does not need to be trimmed regularly, occasional trims around the feet and sanitary areas can help keep them clean and comfortable. Professional grooming every 8 to 12 weeks may also be necessary to manage the length and texture of their coat.
  • Bathing: Briards should be bathed every 6 to 8 weeks, or as needed, depending on their activity level and exposure to outdoor elements. Ensure the coat is thoroughly dried after bathing, as their dense coat can trap moisture and lead to skin issues.

In addition to coat care, regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are essential to maintain overall health and prevent infections.

 

The Briard is a working dog with high energy needs, requiring daily exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated.

  • 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day is recommended, which can include long walks, jogs, or playtime in a fenced yard. Briards excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and herding, and participating in these activities helps meet both their physical and mental needs.
  • Mental Stimulation: Briards are intelligent and need activities that challenge their problem-solving skills. Puzzle toys, training exercises, and advanced obedience tasks can help keep them mentally engaged.

The Briard requires a well-balanced diet that supports their active lifestyle and large size. They typically need 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals.

  • A diet rich in lean proteins supports muscle development and maintenance, while healthy fats provide the energy needed for their active lifestyle.
  • Briards are prone to bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening condition common in large, deep-chested breeds. To help reduce the risk, it’s recommended to feed them smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for preventing joint problems, particularly since Briards are prone to hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups and adjustments in food portions based on activity level can help prevent obesity and related issues.



Ideal Living Environment

The Briard is best suited for homes with plenty of space to move and play. They thrive in suburban or rural environments where they have access to a yard or open spaces for exercise.

Fenced yards are ideal, as Briards need space to run and explore. However, they should always be supervised, as their strong protective instincts may lead them to guard the property.

While they can adapt to urban living, they require a dedicated owner who can provide enough exercise and mental stimulation to meet their high energy needs.

The Briard’s dense coat makes them well-suited for colder climates, but they can also adapt to warmer weather if provided with adequate shade and water.

In hot climates, care should be taken to avoid overheating during exercise. It’s best to limit outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day and provide access to fresh water and shaded areas.

In cold climates, their thick coat provides excellent insulation, allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities even in winter.

Briards, with their herding background, can get along well with other pets, but early socialization is key.

Other dogs: They often do well with other dogs, particularly if they’ve been introduced gradually. Their protective instincts mean they may initially be wary of unfamiliar dogs, but with proper introductions, they typically enjoy canine companionship.

Cats: Briards can live with cats, though their herding instincts might kick in and lead them to chase. With proper training and a slow introduction, many Briards learn to coexist peacefully with feline friends.

Small pets: Due to their herding instincts, small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs may be seen as something to chase. Supervision is crucial, and it’s best to keep these interactions limited.



Life Stages

Briard puppies are energetic and intelligent, requiring early socialization and training to grow into well-behaved adults. Puppy training should focus on basic obedience, crate training, and exposure to different environments, people, and animals to help them develop confidence.

Given their independent nature, training should begin early to establish a strong foundation for obedience and good behavior.

In adulthood (between 1.5 to 7 years), Briards are at their most active and capable. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and engaged. During this stage, they excel in roles such as herding, protection work, and agility competitions, where they can use their natural instincts.

Their protective nature also becomes more pronounced, so ongoing socialization is important to ensure they remain friendly and well-adjusted around new people and environments.

As Briards age (around 7 years and older), their energy levels may decrease, but they still require moderate exercise to maintain joint health and prevent weight gain. A senior-specific diet with joint supplements can help alleviate potential issues like arthritis or mobility problems.

Regular vet check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health concerns, such as hip dysplasia, vision problems, and heart disease.



Health

The Briard is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but like all large breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions:

  • Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition where the hip joint does not fit properly into the socket, leading to arthritis and discomfort.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye condition that can cause gradual vision loss.
  • Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition common in large, deep-chested breeds where the stomach fills with gas and twists.

wners should be alert to signs such as:

Lameness or difficulty rising (potential indicators of hip dysplasia).
Cloudy eyes or changes in vision (early signs of PRA).
Distended abdomen and restlessness (possible signs of bloat).

Routine veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining the Briard’s health, particularly to monitor for genetic conditions like hip dysplasia and PRA. Regular eye exams and hip evaluations can help detect problems early, and maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise can prevent joint stress.

Preventative measures such as feeding smaller meals and monitoring exercise after eating can help reduce the risk of bloat.

A long-haired tan Briard standing on a grassy field, tongue out and looking happy.

Puppy-Proofing Your Home:

  • Remove hazards: Briard puppies are curious and agile, so hide anything chewable (like shoes and electrical cords) and block off areas with delicate items.
  • Use baby gates: Briards are strong and playful. Use gates to control access until training is solid, especially when you can’t supervise them.
  • Secure furniture: Their size means they can knock over small items, so make sure heavy objects and breakables are out of reach.
  • Set up a crate: A large, comfy crate helps with potty training and provides a safe space for your Briard to rest.

Essential Supplies:

  • Collar & leash: Invest in a sturdy collar and leash. Briards are large and strong, so quality is key for control during walks.
  • Food and water bowls: Choose heavy-duty stainless steel or ceramic bowls to handle their size and prevent tipping.
  • High-quality puppy food: Briards are large dogs, so feed a high-quality food designed for large breeds to support healthy growth.
  • Grooming tools: Briards have long, double coats that need regular brushing to prevent matting. A pin brush, slicker brush, and grooming comb are must-haves.

Briards are energetic, intelligent dogs who need both mental and physical stimulation. Here are a few activities to keep them happy and engaged:

  • Herding trials: Their instincts as herding dogs make herding trials a great outlet for their natural abilities.
  • Obedience training: Briards are intelligent but strong-willed. Structured obedience training will challenge their minds and reinforce positive behavior.
  • Agility training: Despite their size, Briards are surprisingly agile. Agility courses are a fun way to channel their energy.
  • Long walks & hikes: Briards have plenty of stamina, so they’ll love long walks or hikes. Be sure to keep them leashed, as they can be protective and territorial.

While Briards are often carefully bred and cherished by their owners, they can occasionally find themselves in need of a new home. Organizations like Briard Rescue & Haven specialize in rehoming these wonderful dogs.

Adopting a rescue Briard may come with its challenges, especially if the dog has had a difficult past, but with patience and training, Briards typically form strong bonds with their new families. Many rescue Briards are already familiar with basic commands and house rules, making the transition smoother than you might expect.

When considering adoption, it’s important to ask about the dog’s temperament and background, as some Briards may need extra support in socialization or handling behavioral quirks. However, once a Briard trusts you, their loyalty is unmatched.

Fun Facts About the Briard

  • Night Vision Superstars: With their keen eyesight, Briards have exceptional vision, even in low-light conditions. Historically, this made them perfect for keeping watch over flocks at night, ever-alert to predators lurking in the dark.

  • Independent Thinkers: Unlike some herding breeds that rely heavily on commands, Briards are natural problem solvers. Bred to work independently, they often make decisions without waiting for human input, which makes them both fascinating and a bit of a handful for novice dog owners.

  • Briards in the White House: The Briard has even graced the White House! Thomas Jefferson is said to have imported Briards to the U.S. from France, believing they would be invaluable for managing his sheep at Monticello. Ever the forward-thinker, Jefferson was one of the breed’s earliest American advocates.

Myths and Misconceptions

  • Too Independent for Training: Some people believe that Briards, being independent thinkers, are difficult to train. While it’s true that they have a strong will, they are highly intelligent and capable learners. With consistent, positive training, Briards can excel in obedience, agility, and more.

  • Just a Pretty Coat: Many assume the Briard’s stunning coat is its defining feature, but this breed is far more than just a beautiful furball. Underneath that luxurious mane is a strong, muscular dog bred for serious work.

  • Not a Family Dog: Given their protective instincts and working dog background, some believe that Briards don’t make good family pets. In reality, they are incredibly loyal, loving companions when properly trained and socialized. They form strong attachments to their families and are often very patient with children.

  • Too Big for Indoor Life: Due to their size, many assume that Briards aren’t suited to indoor living. While they do need space to exercise, they can adapt well to living inside as long as they’re given regular opportunities for physical and mental activity.

Conclusion: A Noble Breed for the Ages

The Briard’s centuries-long legacy as a working dog, protector, and loyal companion is a testament to its versatility and enduring appeal. Whether you’re seeking a dedicated herding dog, a fearless guardian, or a loving family companion, the Briard offers a unique blend of intelligence, loyalty, and heart. With their rich history, their heroic contributions in times of war, and their affectionate nature, these dogs have earned their place in the annals of canine history—and in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.

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