The Briard is a dog of legendary loyalty. Known in his native France as the Chien de Berger de Brie (Sheepdog of Brie), he has been guarding flocks and fighting wars for over a thousand years. He is a large, powerful dog covered in long, wavy hair that parts in the middle, giving him a distinctively rustic appearance.

But don’t let the “mop dog” look fool you. The Briard is a serious worker. He is known as a “heart wrapped in fur.” He forms an unbreakable bond with his family and will defend them with a ferocity that belies his gentle nature. He is not a dog for everyone—he is dominant, independent, and requires a lot of grooming—but for those he loves, he is the only dog in the world.

History and Origin: The Dog of Napoleon

The Briard is an ancient breed. He appears in tapestries dating back to the 8th century. Charlemagne, Napoleon, and Thomas Jefferson all owned Briards. In fact, Thomas Jefferson is credited with bringing the first Briards to America. He fell in love with the breed while serving as the US Minister to France and brought several pregnant females back to Monticello to work his sheep.

During World War I, the Briard was the official war dog of the French Army. They served as sentries, messengers, and search-and-rescue dogs. They were so valuable that the breed was nearly decimated. American soldiers were so impressed by their bravery that they brought many home after the war, helping to establish the breed in the US.

Physical Characteristics

The Briard is a muscular, rugged dog. He moves with a smooth, effortless gait known as “quicksilver.”

• Height: Males 23-27 inches (58-69 cm); Females 22-25.5 inches (56-65 cm).
• Weight: 55-100 pounds (25-45 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Coat: The most striking feature. It is a double coat. The outer coat is coarse, hard, and dry, making a rasping sound when rubbed. It is long (6+ inches) and slightly wavy. It protects the dog from all weather.
• Double Dewclaws: Like the Beauceron, the Briard has double dewclaws on the hind legs. They are functional and required in the breed standard.
• Head: Large and powerful, topped with a “crook” (a hook-like bone at the end of the tail).
• Beard and Mustache: Long hair on the face gives him a wise expression.
• Colors: Black, tawny (fawn), or gray.

Temperament and Personality: The Heart Wrapped in Fur

The Briard is defined by his devotion.

The Velcro Dog

He needs to be with his people. He will follow you everywhere. He is not a kennel dog. If he is separated from his family, he becomes depressed and destructive.

The Guardian

He is naturally protective. He is reserved with strangers and will stand between his owner and a threat. He has a phenomenal memory and will remember people (good and bad) for years.

The Herder

He has a strong herding instinct. He may try to herd children, guests, or other pets by bumping them or nipping at heels. This behavior must be managed.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise

The Briard is an active dog.

• Daily: A long walk, a run, or herding practice.
• Mental: He needs a job. Agility, obedience, and herding trials are excellent.

Training

He is smart but stubborn.

• Memory: He has an elephant’s memory. If you let him get away with something once, he will remember it forever. If you treat him unfairly, he will remember that too.
• Positive Reinforcement: He learns best with praise and rewards.
• Socialization: Critical to prevent over-protectiveness.

Health and Lifespan

Briards are generally healthy, living 10 to 12 years.

• Bloat (GDV): Deep-chested dogs are at risk.
• Hip Dysplasia: Can occur.
• Night Blindness (CSNB): A genetic eye condition. A DNA test is available.
• Thyroid Issues: Hypothyroidism.

Grooming and Care

The coat is high-maintenance.

• Brushing: You must brush him deeply several times a week to prevent mats. If you fall behind, you will have to shave him down.
• The “Clean” Dog: Despite the hair, they shed very little (the dead hair stays in the coat until brushed out) and stay relatively clean.
• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks.

Nutrition

Briards are large dogs.

• Quality: High-quality protein.
• Bloat: Feed two smaller meals.

Is a Briard Right for You?

The Briard is a special dog for a special owner.

Yes, if:

• You want a dog that is devoted to you above all else.
• You are willing to commit to daily grooming.
• You want a loyal guardian.
• You are an experienced dog owner.

No, if:

• You work long hours.
• You want a “wash and wear” dog.
• You want a dog that loves everyone instantly.
• You are not prepared to be a strong leader.

For the person who wants a dog with a human-like soul and a warrior’s heart, the Briard is the ultimate companion.