Introduction
The Briard, also known as the Berger Briard and the Berger de Brie, is a breed of dog in the Herding Group. This dog is known for its steadfast loyalty and a heart of gold. Some of the earliest Briards to come to the United States were presented to Thomas Jefferson to protect his sheep herd. The Briard was approved by the AKC in 1975.
The average Briard stands about 2.5 feet high, and they have an average weight of 75 pounds.
Temperament
The Briard is a highly intelligent dog with a fearless personality and a need to be with its human companions. They are brave, protective, watchful, kind, gentle, and very obedient. The Briard is a wonderful family dog as they adopt their human companions as members of a flock. The only difficulty with this characteristic is that they are very protective of their flock. Briards may consider any new thing, be it a person or an object, introduced into a home as a possible threat. Early consistent and continual socialization, training, and positive reinforcement are necessary to prevent an overprotective Briard, or a Briard that feels overly threatened or nervous by new things.
Briards need plenty of space and exercise. Pet owners that cannot fulfill the time and exercise commitments required by this breed should not adopt them.
Health
The life expectancy of the Briard is on average about 10 – 12 years, and they are at increased risks for health conditions associated with large breeds such as hip dysplasia and bloat. Their long coarse coat should be brushed daily, but fortunately their coat has a natural repellant that helps to keep dirt and water off.
History
The Briard is a very old breed that was noted in historical accounts as far back as the 8th century. Briards were initially bred as guard and herding dogs, but because of their sharp hearing they were also used on watches during war times. The ancestors of the Briard are not known, but they were cross bred in the 1800’s with the Beauceron and the Barbet to improve their appearance.
Briard
Quick Facts
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Weight: 75 lbs
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Height: 22-27 in
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Coat: Bushy with a shaggy beard, eyebrows and mustache
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Temperament: Protective, sensitive, playful and obedient
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Lifespan: 10-12 Years