Briard | A to Z Dog Breeds

Briard

GROUP: Herding • ORIGIN: France • ORGINAL FUNCTION: Herding • COAT: Long • COLOR: Gray, Black Or Tawny • HEIGHT: 22 to 27 in • WEIGHT: 50 to 95 lb • LIFESPAN: 10-12 Years

Description:

The Briard is a faithful, devoted, and highly intelligent member of the Herding group. These dogs have an appearance that can be described as handsome, with wavy locks of hair on its long coat.

The Briard displays a confident temperament and a dog that's always aiming to please. A dog breed that can be great with household pets, but often seen to be weary and reserved with other dogs and strangers - making the ideal family protector.

History Of The Briard:

The origins of the Briard date back to 1300's France. A dog highly rated as a guardian of livestock and as a herding dog. It was a featured as one or four breeds from France, with the other three being a Beauceron, Picardy, and a Pyrenean.

This dog breed wasn't known by the name of Briard until early 1800's. Often called prior to that as a Chien Berger de Brie, meaning 'Shepherd Dog of Brie'. Early duties for these dogs were to protect farm animals or herds, as well as to defend against any prowling wolves. A human intruder would also be subject to the same treatment if attempts where made to intrude on the livestock being protected. Later, after the time of the French Revolution the Briard was used more as a sheepherder, and a lot less as a guardian.

Briard Care:

A breed in need of ample exercise to contend with its boundless energy, as with most dogs in the herding category. Exercise can consist in a couple of quick walks on a secure leash, as well as some fun and game outside.

These dogs are able to tolerate cooler temperatures, but not so keen on warmer climate conditions. A Briard can live outside if need be, but a preferred arrangement is inside with its family at nights, with access to a secure yard throughout the day. Grooming needs are a good brushing three to four times each week to contend with its long coat.

Health Information:

Health concerns seen with a Briard include gastric torsion, CHD, night blindness, with PRA and heart problems seen rarely. Vets recommend that these dogs are checked for eye, hip, and cardiac problems.