| Breed
Group:
Herding |
| Weight:
75-100 lbs |
| Height:
male: 23-27, female: 22-25.5 inches |
| Color(s):
all uniform colors except white (includes black, tawny, and gray shades) |
| Coat:
The
Briard has a long double coat. The outer coat is often described as
goat-like. It is slightly wavy and is dry and harsh in texture. This
breed has long hair that covers the eyes and is usually pinned up. They
have a distinctive beard, mustache, and eyebrows. The under coat is
fine in texture and provides insulation from the harsh and cold
climates this breed once worked in. The color of the coat comes in
gray, black, or multiple variations of fawn. |
| Overview:
This
breed was originally used to guard and herd flocks of sheep. The
Briard, known for centuries, have been owned by such historical figures
as Napoleon, Thomas Jefferson, Lafayette, and Charlemagne. With its
heightened sense of hearing, this breed was often used by the French
Army to search for wounded soldiers. Today, the Briard is an esteemed
companion dog and continues to serve as a guardian and herder. |
| Character:
The
Briard is a rugged and agile medium sized dog. They are unique in
appearance and possess an almost human-like quality. This breed is
exceptionally powerful and has a commanding presence. They are commonly
referred to as "a heart wrapped in fur". |
| Temperament:
A
protective, smart, loving and loyal breed, the Briard makes a wonderful
family pet. Once they have bonded with their family they become totally
committed for their entire lifespan. Human contact is essential, and
they are happiest in the home as part of the family. They are aloof
with strangers, and do not respond readily or easily to any type of
change unless they are assured that the change is for the good. The
Briard is sensitive and obedient, but definitely have a mind of its
own. They are good-natured and get along well with children they are
raised with provided they are not teased. This breed may be aggressive
toward other dogs without proper introduction. It is important to
remember that the Briard's nature is that of a herder and they will
attempt to perform this task on anything and everything that moves. |
| Care:
The
Briard's coat is dirt and water shedding, and if groomed well shed very
little. They require daily brushing and combing to prevent matting.
Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. Frequent bathing
will harm the coat and make it more difficult to groom. Their ears must
be kept clean. They are generally healthy, but may have a tendency to
develop PRA, hip dysplasia, and cataracts. |
| Training:
Intense
and extensive socialization beginning at an early age is absolutely
mandatory for this breed. The Briard has an excellent memory and is
very trainable. They require a firm owner that is able to take charge.
If this breed is not raised properly they can be extremely unfriendly,
fearful, or both. They will not respond to severe, unfair, or
heavy-handed training. These methods will cause the Briard to become
withdrawn and aggressive. Training must be done with consistency,
firmness, patience, and love. They excel at search and rescue, police
training, and protection work. |
| Activity:
Briards
have a high energy level and are natural athletes. They require daily
exercise and will become restless without it. This breed loves to swim
and are ideal walking and jogging companions. They will do okay in an
apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are moderately
active indoors and do best with an average sized yard. This breed needs
a great deal of activity, entertainment, and interaction. The Briard
will not allow themselves to be ignored. |
|