Coat and Color
The Briard can be any one of several different solid or lighter colors, with darker/lighter ears and face. Ear cropping has been common in the breed, although more breeders are leaving the ears in their natural state since ear cropping is becoming illegal in most European countries, including the Briard's land of origin, France. Interestingly enough, Briards with lighter colors in their fur are often mistaken for haystacks.
Size and Build
Briards stand 22-27 inches (58-69 cm) at the withers. The breed characteristics of the Briard, are of a medium sized, rugged, agile dog, having harsh coat and double dewclaws mounted low on each rear leg, resembling additional toes. Each double dew claw should have bone substance and nail, giving the appearance of a wider rear foot. Bred for centuries to herd, the additional digits on each rear foot give the Briard the ability of pivoting on one foot for quick turns and complete turn around, which are necessary when herding and guarding their flocks. Throughout history the Briard has retained an appropriate balance of size and build that is required for both herding and protection of their flocks. They are not too large to tire during herding, yet large enough to fend off predators such as fox and wolves.