Briard: Dog Breed Information

The Briard ( Berger de Brie ) comes from France and belongs to the group of herding dogs and cattle dogs. As such is very intelligent, confident, and alert, has an even temper, and is free from aggression. However, it does require knowledgeable and consistent training and plenty of outdoor activity.

Origin and history

The Briard belongs to the very old group of French shepherd dogs. It probably originated from a cross between Barbet and Picard. Its original job was to herd and protect flocks of sheep. The name Chien de Berger de Brie first appears in French literature in the 18th century. Around 1909, the first Briard club was founded in France, “Le Club des Amis du Briard”, which dealt with breeding and training, which also allowed the development of a uniform standard of appearance and temperament.

Appearance

The Briard is a medium to a large-sized dog with long twisted hair and a light undercoat. The coat of hair resembles that of a goat and gives the Briard its rustic appearance. The Briard is available in black, fawn, fawn with light to medium charbonnage (dark hair tips), or grey.

A special external feature of the Briard is the double dewclaws on the hind legs. In addition to the four claws on the toes, there are sometimes two claws on the inside of the forelegs.

The head is strong and long with a goatee, mustache, and prominent eyebrows. The short hanging ears are set high, not lying close, flat, and covered with long hair. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, overall well-proportioned, muscular, and supple.

Nature

A confident and lively working dog, the Briard is also alert and defensive as a born herding dog. It only reluctantly tolerates strange dogs in its territory – it is reserved for suspicious strangers. However, it is not known for aggressive or nervous behavior.

The spirited and powerful Briard is not necessarily easy to lead. It likes to get its own way and therefore needs an experienced hand and a loving but consistent upbringing.

The robust nature boy also needs a lot of activity and exercise outdoors. It loves sporting activities and likes to prove its zeal in agility, popular sports, and protection dog sports. But the Briard is also increasingly being used as a rescue dog and therapy dog.

As a pure family dog ​​is only recommended with sufficient activity and careful training. The Briard is not suitable for couch potatoes, comfortable city people, or cleanliness fanatics. The long, goat-hair-like coat brings a lot of dirt into the house and requires intensive care.