Berger De Brie, Berger Briard
Overview
The briard is square or slightly longer than it is tall and powerful without being course; the overall appearance is one of handsome form. Like all good herding dogs, it combines strength, flexibility, agility and endurance with the ability to make abrupt turns, springing starts and sudden stops. Its movement has been described as "quicksilver," with supple, light strides that give the impression of gliding. Its undercoat is fine and tight, and its outer coat is coarse and dry, lying flat in long, slightly wavy locks. On the shoulders, the coat's length is 6 inches or more. The questioning, confident expression is enhanced by the longer eyebrows, as well as the long-appearing head.
Devoted and faithful, the briard is a loving and protective companion. It is independent, intelligent and self-assured, but it is also willing to please and eager to serve as a partner in adventure. It is reserved with strangers. It can be aggressive with other dogs and may nip at people's heels when playing. It tends to stay at home and may attempt to keep the family's children home as well!
| Size | Large |
| Height | Male: 24-27 inches (62-68 cm)Female: 22-25 inches (56-64 cm) |
| Weight | 75 pounds (35 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Colors | Black Gray Tawny |
| Origin | France |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Briard will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. This dog is totally not suited for life in a kennel. They are happiest in the home as part of the family, but they do love to be outdoors. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. It is also shy toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
If you have cats or other pets, or would like to someday, be sure the Briard grows up with them or is exposed to them frequently while he is young. This breed has a strong prey drive and may not be friendly toward cats or other critters unless he has learned that lesson at an early age. |
| Exercise Needs |
The Briard is a working dog and will become restless and can develop behavioral problems if not exercised enough. They need to go on a long daily walk, or run alongside your bicycle. They make an excellent jogging companion and also enjoy a good swim. They are ideally suited to defense dog/police dog trials. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: The Briard is quite intelligent and eager to please. This breed will be relatively easy to train, as they were intended to complete tasks without supervision or even direction. The Briard does require a firm hand when training, however, they will not respond well to anger and could become timid if frequently communicated to in anger. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: Grooming should be performed often to keep the dog's coat in good shape. Professional groomers can be sought after for assistance. No trimming or stripping needed. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |