Briard

One of the four French Sheepdog breeds, the Briard is the oldest. The dog has been depicted in art as far back as the 8th century. The first documentation of the name Briard was in the early 1800s. They were originally guarders, protecting French estates from predators and humans. After the French Revolution, they had more responsibilities added to their job and became herders. Arriving in America early, there’s evidence that Thomas Jefferson had a Briard dog. 

After World War I, American soldiers brought Briards back to the U.S. The Briard was the official dog of the French army in World War II. While not extremely popular in the U.S., they are more popular in their native country. 

Ideal owners of Briard dogs will be active types, ready to match the dog’s activity level and enthusiasm for being out in nature. Owners will also need to commit to grooming the dog’s long coat. While Briards adore their families, they are very suspicious of strangers, which can lead to barking. They do best in homes that are in suburban or rural areas.

Highly physical, the Briard needs a lot of free running, leash walking, training, and even swimming. These activities should be supplemented by mental stimulation in the form of enrichment and problem-solving games.

Large and often wet, the Briard needs space to shake mud free and dry off. A fenced-in yard is ideal, as is access to a variety of walks. They do best in rural areas, especially farms, but can get by in the suburbs as well.

The Briard’s long coat needs plenty of brushing and combing to prevent matting and limit shedding.

The Briard is easy to train when you understand their motivations. They think independently and are used to making their own decisions, which can lead to stubborn streaks. Positive reinforcement and food motivation are helpful tactics to get them to listen and follow instructions. Early and ongoing socialization is important as they are naturally suspicious of others.

Absolutely loving with their families, the Briard makes a wonderful family pet. However, they are large and can be excitable, especially as puppies. They do best with families with older children or no children.

The cost of a Briard from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.