A long, shaggy coat, a confident and bold nature, and a keenly intelligent mind… that’s the Briard for you in a nutshell. If you want a smart and loyal pooch that is loving and affectionate towards family members, although somewhat aloof towards strangers, then read on. The following Briard breed information will help you decide if this dog would be a good fit for your family and lifestyle.
In terms of size, Briards are large dogs, standing 22-27 inches tall and weighing 55-100 pounds. The average lifespan of a Briard is 12 years.
Briards are moderately playful and affectionate towards family members. They can tolerate children’s behaviors with patience and get along well with other dogs provided they receive appropriate socialization with animals and children when they are puppies.
A Briard can be slightly reserved with strangers and is vigilant by nature. This protective instinct makes Briards very good watchdogs. This is a moderately adaptable breed that can adjust to some changes in routine. Briards can adapt to city living and apartment dwelling provided they get the exercise they need. This is a sensitive breed, however, that does not like to be left alone for long periods. Briards can tolerate cold weather quite well and hot weather too, although to a lesser extent.
Briards are not overly eager to please but are not extremely strong willed either. They can be trained with a gentle, consistent, and firm reward-based approach. Keep in mind that these working dogs were bred to herd hundreds of sheep and are used to making decisions without human instructions, so they can be a little challenging to train. However, the Briard’s high intelligence, excellent memory, and good energy levels mean this dog learns quickly and does very well in training exercises.
This breed has moderate energy levels and mental stimulation needs. This is a dog that is happiest when he or she has a job to do. That’s why Briards make wonderful companions for active individuals and families that like to run, hike, and bike. A play session with a ball in the yard or a long walk can help a Briard work off energy. Briards do not bark much at all.
The Briard’s long shaggy or wavy double coat requires several weekly brushings in terms of grooming. It does not shed much, however, and regular brushing can help keep shedding to a minimum. These dogs can drool on occasion but are not heavy droolers.
Hailing originally from France and belonging to the AKC’s Herding Group, Briards are muscular canines with a natural peek-a-boo hairstyle, a prominent beard and eyebrows, and an adorable questioning expression. Briards are all heart and make loving and loyal family pets.
If you want to bring home your very own lovable Briard puppy, check out listings of reputable Briard breeders on Puppy Hero. We’ve done all the homework for you and pre-screened breeders so you can be sure you’re bringing home a happy, healthy Briard puppy who will grow up to be a well-mannered, well-adjusted adult.
