Briard
dog Breed Profile
Briards are large-sized dogs weighing between 50 and 100 pounds (22 to 45 kilograms).
In this article
Floppy ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
60-100 lbs.
50-80 lbs.
Height
24 in.
(at withers)
26 in.
Coat
Length
Long
Color
All uniform colors except white
Care
Exercise
>40 minutes/day
Energy level
high
Longevity
10-12 yrs.
Needs
Moderate
Traits
Moderate
Low
Drooling
Low
Digging
High
Grooming Needs
High
Social Needs
Moderate
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Herding
UKC Class.
Herding Dog
Prevalence
So-so
Briards are highly intelligent and need activities to keep them occupied to prevent destructive behavior such as chewing and digging.
Briards are large-sized dogs weighing between 50 and 100 pounds (22 to 45 kilograms).
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Briards are active dogs that require a high level of physical activity. Although these dogs are independent in nature, they do not make good kennel dogs and prefer being with their owners. They are highly intelligent and need activities to keep them occupied to prevent destructive behavior such as chewing and digging. They need to be kept in a large fenced-in backyard to prevent them from roaming.
Briards consider their owners to be equal companions. Although they can be aggressive toward other dogs, if properly socialized they can learn to co-exist with dogs or cats. Other pets, such as rodents, birds or reptiles, should be kept away.
Given their independent nature, briards may question or refuse their owner's commands. They do not respond well to heavy-handed punishment but respect authority. You must first earn a briard's respect through consistent obedience training.
Briards are ideal for owners who want a large, intelligent, active dog for herding, hiking and other outdoor activities. They make good watchdogs and good guard dogs. They are mistrustful of strangers. Briards typically live from 10 to 15 years.
The briard is an ancient French breed dating back to the 8th century or earlier. The briard was bred for guarding and herding sheep and other livestock. The dog kept illustrious company including Emperor Charlemagne, Napoleon, and Lafayette. Thomas Jefferson, once a dog hater, was quickly turned into a dog lover when Lafayette sent briards over to the newly formed United States to guard the livestock of the author of the Declaration of Independence.
During World Wars I and II, the French used briards as guard dogs and search-and-rescue dogs. The breed suffered with the deaths of many dogs in both wars. The first litter of briards registered with the American Kennel Club was in 1922.
The briard excels in herding and guarding livestock and is a member of the herding group. He makes a delightful, active companion.
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