Briard
Briard is a large, strong, muscular, slender dog. The head is quite wide, covered with long hair, forming a beard. The nose is large and black, the eyes are round, wide, large, black and are covered with hair from the forehead and eyebrows. The dog has middle ears, naturally lowered. The tail is long, fluffy and with a bent tip. Color can have any color except white, but most often it is black, fawn, gray. Briard needs daily care. If you do not have the time or patience to care, consider other breeds. Briard is independent, which is an excellent quality if your puppy has been trained properly. However, without preparation, an independent, confident puppy can turn into an uncontrollable adult dog. Briard must be socialized early in order to avoid aggression towards humans or animals. Briards were bred to be guard dogs and are still used in this role. Briard loves being with his owner.
Characteristics of Breed
Life Expectancy (years)
10-12
Size
large
Height (inches)
25-30
Weight (pounds)
50-90
Coat Length
long
Coat Colors
Black, 
Fawn, 
Gray, 
Blue
History and Origin
The Briard's origins trace back to the historic region of Brie in France, where it was primarily used for herding sheep and protecting them from predators. The breed's history is rich with tales of bravery and loyalty, having served alongside soldiers in both World Wars. The Briard was first recognized as a distinct breed in the late 19th century, with its unique characteristics being carefully preserved through selective breeding. Over the years, the Briard has gained popularity not only for its working abilities but also for its affectionate nature and adaptability as a family companion.
Physical Characteristics
The Briard is a large, muscular dog with a distinctive long coat that is slightly wavy and goat-like in texture. Its coat colors range from solid black to fawn, grey, or blue, often with a black overlay. The breed's most notable feature is its double dewclaws on the hind legs, which are considered a breed standard. The Briard's eyes are typically covered by its long hair, giving it a mysterious and endearing appearance. Despite its size, the Briard moves with grace and agility, making it well-suited for herding and other active pursuits.
Temperament and Personality
Character This is a dynamic, agile, very stable dog that can walk 70-80 km every day without feeling tired. Briard is an exquisite runner and is a reliable and maneuverable dog. This is a loyal, slightly dominant, smart and obedient dog. The dog is less aggressive than Beauceron and is very attached to its owner. The breed is extremely powerful, they are usually called the "heart wrapped in fur." He does not like teasing. Temperament A protective, intelligent, loving and loyal breed, Briard is a wonderful pet. Human contact is important, and if there is one, they are the happiest in the house. Briard is sensitive and obedient, but certainly has his own mind. They are good-natured and get along well with children if they have grown up with them. This breed can be aggressive towards other dogs. It is important to remember that the nature of the Briard is a shepherd and they will try to complete this task on everything that moves.
Utility
This is a great dog for grazing and protecting herds, being able to manage a herd of 600-700 goats without human intervention. Briard can become a pleasant companion dog, provided that he has the necessary living conditions.
Breed pictures
What To Expect When Caring For a Briard
The dog is resistant to bad weather. She needs moderate activity, early socialization, training and an active host. She can be satisfied in a long walk or jog. Every day you need to spend from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise. Without enough activity, Briard can become irritable and begin to bark, dig, chew things.
Conclusion
The Briard is a remarkable breed, known for its striking appearance and exceptional intelligence. With a storied past as a herding dog, the Briard is not only a reliable working partner but also a devoted family companion. Its loyalty and adaptability make it an excellent choice for those who appreciate its unique qualities. For individuals willing to dedicate time to its training and grooming, the Briard can be a truly rewarding addition to any home. If you're interested in exploring other breeds with similar characteristics, consider the German Shepherd or the Border Collie. Additionally, the Bearded Collie is another breed worth considering for its similar traits.
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