Name: Briard
Official name: Berger de Brie
FCI Number: 113
He is a large, strong, powerful dog with a rectangular shape and a deep and broad chest. He has a large head with a not too narrow and reasonably long muzzle. His ears are set high and where it is allowed they are cupped. The legs are straight and strong. And the tail is long and thickly furred.
Character of the Briard breed
It is an intelligent, well-mannered, teachable, temperamental dog. He is friendly, affectionate and gentle within his family and even with children. He is distrustful of strangers and uncompromising towards intruders.
Briard breed height
Around 34 kg.
Coat of the Briard breed
Long (over the eyes), rough and slightly wavy.
Coat colour
All uniform colours except white, chestnut and mahogany. Most commonly found in black, grey and fawn.
History of the Briard breed
The Briard appeared as early as the 14th century in France, where it was used as a sheepdog.
Advantages - why get a Briard
The Briard is known for its loyalty, intelligence and protective instincts - making it an excellent family dog and guard dog. He is very trainable and responds well to training, making it easy for him to learn new commands and rules. Briards are friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Their high energy and stamina make them ideal partners for various outdoor activities such as hiking, running or dog sports. This dog also has excellent working abilities and is versatile, making them suitable for a variety of tasks from herding to rescue missions. Its thick coat provides protection in a variety of weather conditions and contributes to its attractive appearance.
Disadvantages - why not get a Briard
The Briard requires considerable care for its thick coat, which must be brushed regularly to prevent matting and keep it in good condition. This dog has high demands for physical and mental stimulation and this can be challenging for people with less active lifestyles or limited time. Its strong protective instinct and independent nature require consistent and experienced training to avoid problems with dominance or disobedience. The Briard can also be prone to certain health problems (such as hip dysplasia and eye disease) and this can mean high veterinary costs. Because of its size and strength, it can be difficult to handle for inexperienced owners or small children.