Read About Briard

Briard's are protective and playful dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Briard Summary:

1. Size:

   Large Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   75 lbs

3. Coat:

   Long Coated

4. Shedding:

   Low Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to train

8. Way with Children:

   Sometimes Friendly

Briard - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Herding;1922

2. Size & Weight:

   22-27 inches tall, 75 lbs

3. Coat:

   Briard's have a long, rough and somewhat wavy outer coat and a fine textured undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is long and broad but is in proportion to their body. They have a long and square muzzle. The ears are placed high on the head.

5. Body:

   Briard's have strong necks and broad, deep chests.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC all uniform colors are acceptable accept white.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 yrs

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 121 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Briard will do ok in an apartment and are moderately active indoors. However, an average sized yard where they can run and play is best. They love being outdoors but are not suited to kennel life. They need to be with their family.

Briard - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   France

2. Historical Information:

   Briard's are ancient sheep guardians and herders. They were used by the French Army as sentries, messengers and search and rescue dogs looking for wounded soldiers with their keen sense of hearing.

Briard - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Briard' are sweet and loyal but can be stubborn and unfriendly without the proper training.

2. Behavior:

   They need a firm hand from the beginning and will become loyal and sweet dogs. They can become stubborn and unfriendly without the proper training.

3. Habits:

   Briard's are herding dogs by nature and will even attempt to herd people by nipping at their heels.

Briard - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are a generally healthy breed. Some minor concerns are hip dysplasia, PRA and cataracts.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Briard's are working dogs and need lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love to swim and jog with their master.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Their long coarse coat will require on average 2 hours of grooming time per week and a lot longer than that if you do not keep up with it. Keep the inside of their ears clean and trim any hair in the ears or between the pads of the feet.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Briard, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Briard's absolutely must be socialized early with children. They do not like to be teased and will do best with children and other pets they have been raised with. They can, however, be aggressive towards other dogs.

Briard -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.