The Briard is a very ancient breed. Famous people like Charlemagne, Lafayette, Napoleon and Thomas Jefferson all owned Briards. This old guardian and herder of sheep was used by the French Army as a messenger, a sentry and to search for injured soldiers.

In 1863, after the Paris dog show, the breed became more and more popular. This dog comes from crosses between the Beauceron and the Barbet. The Briard was named for Aubry of Montdidier, a man that since owned a Briard, or for Brie, the French province.

The colors of the coat are black or various shades of tawny or various shades of gray. Deeper shades of each color are preferable and a combination of two colors is acceptable, but with no spots. The Briard can have a white spot on the chest, but not longer than one inch.

The coat of an adult Briard is at least six inches long and can reach from twelve to eighteen inches. The outer coat of the Briard is very harsh, however, the undercoat is thick and soft.

The Briard is a dog of heart, initiative, courageous and with high intelligence. This is a sweet natured dog, gentle, kind and spirited. This breed is obedient and easily trained because it is extremely eager to please. The Briard has a strong protective instinct toward its family and can be reserved with strangers. These dogs are faithful and have an excellent memory and hearing ability. They can sometimes show a little bit of independence. The Briard is a dog that always needs to be entertained to be happy, you can’t just sit beside it and ignore it. This breed is very adaptable to live with children if it has been raised with them. However, they don’t like to be teased so it’s important to socialize them early. A herder at heart, the Briard might want to herd people by nipping their heels.

The Briard is, generally, a healthy breed. However, some are prone to PRA, cataracts and hip dysplasia. This breed can have bloat and stomach torsion. The Briard`s coat is similar to a goat’s coat. Its coat sheds dirt and water. To have a beautiful and healthy animal, it’s important to spend at least two hours a week for brushing and combing. If you don’t take care of the Briard’s coat, it may become easily matted. Excessive hair in the ears or on the paws should be removed and the ears should be regularly cleaned. If this dog is regularly groomed it will shed very little.

The Briard is a very intelligent and obedient breed that tends to think by itself. They are easily trainable because they are eager to please, but they can also be very stubborn and needs a firm owner that shows leadership. If this dog is not raised properly and well socialized, it can become extremely unfriendly, reserved, and can even become aggressive. The Briard requires regular training with patience and love. They do not respond to harsh and to unjust training.

The Briard is a very demanding dog that must have a daily chance to burn its energy, or it will become restless and bored. Your dog will enjoy to run alongside your bicycle, or to swim for instance.