Briard

Size: Large
Other Names: Berger Briard, Berger de Brie
Country of Origin: France
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Herding
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Herding
United Kennel Club (UKC): Herding Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Working Dogs
The Kennel Club (KC): Pastoral
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Herding
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Working Dogs

Height:

Male: 23-27 inches; Female: 22-25½ inches

Weight:

Male: 80-90 pounds; Female: 70-80 pounds

Color(s):

Black, various shades of gray, and various shades of tawny

Coat:

Double; course, hard and dry, and flat outer coat, falling naturally in long, slightly wavy locks; fine and tight undercoat

Description:

The Briard has historically, and still serves, as a herder and flock guardian today, as well as an esteemed companion dog.  Some of the Briards talents are search & rescue, police work, military work, herding, watch dogging and guarding.

Temperament:

The Briard is a very loyal and protective breed.  The Briard has been called "a heart of gold wrapped in fur." Once the Briard has bonded to his family members, they will be very protective.  They can be aloof with strangers, and new introductions should be on the dog's terms.  They require being shown that the new intrusion is friendly and free of conflict.  They must be taught that it is a good thing and not harmful.  They have proven to be a very good breed to have around children of all ages.

Training:

Socialization needs to start at a very young age.  Briards should be walked as often as possible, to many different places, to develop into well-rounded dogs.  Pet stores, city parks and malls are good places for socialization.  The Briard should be introduced to several different individuals of all ages and in all types of situations.  The Briard has been bred for centuries to herd and to protect their flocks.  To domesticated briards, their family is the flock and all strangers may appear to be predators.  Letting them know that the public in general are friendly and not harmful will help them establish a lifelong socialization pattern which will result in an outgoing and happy dog.  This socialization with the public in general will not diminish their capacity for protecting and guarding their family.  Note that if the Briard is left alone over an hour or 2 it will become stressed and worried about the flock and it might bite or scratch itself.

Care & Grooming:

The Briard’s long coat requires an extensive amount of grooming.

Shedding:

Moderate; the long coat holds loose hair and needs regular brushing.

Health:

Briards may be prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and bloat.  Eye exams and hip scores should be part of a breeding program.

Lifespan:

10–12 years

Litter Size:

6–10 puppies