Quick Stats for the Briard Breed
- Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 27 inches (61 – 68 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 25 inches (56 – 64 cm)
- Weight: 75 pounds (35 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
- AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1928
- Shedding: light shedder
- Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)
Personality of the Briard Breed
The Briard is a loyal and intelligent dog. They are friendly towards other family members and other pets, but are very reserved around strangers and other dogs. They make excellent watchdogs and family protectors. They should be socialized early on, especially around children.
These dogs usually do well with children as long as they are raised together. Supervise them around other children who may tease them, since they do not like to be teased at all.
History of the Briard Breed
The Briard originated in France and can be traced as far back as the 1300s. Originally, they were bred to be herding dogs and worked as livestock guardians. The Briard and the Beauceron both originated from French sheep dogs. However, Beauceron dogs came from a short-coated line.
The Briard did not actually gets its name until sometime in the 1800s. The first breed standard was drafted in 1897, and they entered the show ring around 1900.
The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1928.
The Briard Breed Care and Grooming
Like other members of the Herding Group, the Briard requires a lot of daily exercise. Long daily walks, active outdoor games, or running along while you ride your bicycle are all great activities for the Briard. When given the opportunity, they love to herd. In fact, if left unsupervised, they have a tendency to herd small children.
The Briard has a coarse, dry outer coat which does not easily hold dirt and water. You still need to brush their long coats at least three to four times weekly to prevent matting and tangles. Be prepared to spend a couple hours brushing the coat, and longer if you have neglected it for a while.
These dogs shed very little if they are kept well groomed.
Health Problems of the Briard Breed
The average life expectancy of the Briard breed is about ten to twelve years.
Major health concerns for this breed are:
- CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
- gastric torsion
Minor health issues include:
- night blindness
- cataracts
- bloat
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – in some dogs
Veterinarians recommend having the Briard breed tested specifically for hip, eye, and cardiac problems.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
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