Briard
LoyalProtectiveSpirited
France · 12–12 years
About the Briard
The Briard is a large, powerful French herding breed with a history dating back to at least the 8th century. Charlemagne and Napoleon are both said to have owned Briards. Their long, flowing coat parts naturally down the center and flows to the ground, giving them a dramatic, stylish appearance. Briards served heroically as sentries, ammunition carriers, and Red Cross dogs during World War I. They are loyal, protective, and highly intelligent dogs described as 'a heart wrapped in fur.' Briards form intense bonds with their families and are fearless, versatile working dogs beneath their glamorous coat.
Breed stats
- Height
- 22–27 in
- Weight
- 55–100 lbs
- Lifespan
- 12–12 years
- Group
- Herding
- Coat
- Long, slightly wavy, harsh outer coat with fine, tight undercoat
- Origin
- France
Coat colors
- Black
- Gray
- Tawny
- Tawny with Black Overlay
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
60–90 min
per day recommended
Daily food
3–4 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hypothyroidism
- Stationary night blindness
Not every Briard will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Briards eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Briards require extensive grooming. Their long, flowing double coat must be brushed thoroughly at least every other day — ideally daily — to prevent matting. Each grooming session can take 30 to 60 minutes. The coat mats easily, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks helps maintain coat health. Many pet owners keep their Briard in a shorter trim to reduce daily maintenance, though this changes the breed's dramatic, flowing appearance. Regardless of coat length, Briards are a significant grooming commitment.
- Yes, Briards are naturally protective dogs — this is one of their defining characteristics. They were bred as both herders and flock guardians, which gives them a dual temperament of working drive and protective instinct. They are watchful, territorial, and will position themselves between their family and perceived threats. Their protectiveness is usually controlled and discriminating — they assess situations rather than reacting blindly. However, early socialization is crucial to ensure their protective instincts are appropriately channeled. Without socialization, they can become overprotective and suspicious of all strangers.
- Briards can be excellent family dogs for experienced, active households. They are loyal, affectionate, and generally good with children — often appointing themselves as guardians of younger family members. They are playful and enjoy family activities. However, they are large, powerful dogs that need firm, consistent training and extensive early socialization. Their protective nature requires experienced handling to ensure they distinguish between normal visitors and genuine threats. They need significant daily exercise and grooming. For dedicated families who can meet these needs, Briards are deeply devoted, protective companions.
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