Briard Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Briard is a large, shaggy French sheepdog with a long, wavy coat and a loyal, protective personality. It has worked on French farms for centuries, herding and guarding flocks, and it has been described as a heart wrapped in fur.

Origins and appearance

The breed is named after the Brie region of France. Briards are large and strongly built, with a long, slightly wavy double coat in black, gray or tawny, a bearded face with hair over the eyes, and a distinctive double dewclaw on each hind leg. The tail is long and ends in a hook.

Temperament

They are loyal, intelligent and protective. They bond strongly with family and can be aloof with strangers. They may herd children. They need socialization to avoid suspicion. They can be stubborn and sensitive. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, including walks and play. They enjoy herding, hiking and obedience. They need mental work. A secure fence is needed.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive, consistent methods. Early socialization is vital. Teach polite greetings and a reliable recall. Avoid harsh corrections.

Coat and grooming

The long coat needs brushing several times a week, down to the skin, and regular trimming. See double coat dog grooming guide. Check for mats behind the ears and under the legs. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Congenital stationary night blindness, with a DNA test
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Eye conditions
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with a Briard

They suit active families with space and time to groom. They are poorly suited to apartments.

A typical day

A Briard wants a walk, brushing, training, rest and an evening outing. They like to keep an eye on the family.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy and clumsy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Introduce grooming early. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools, food for a large dog and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well in a large vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping brushing, poor socialization, leaving the dog alone and underexercising.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and DNA tests, and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents.

Protective by nature

Briards watch over their family, and a well-socialized dog can tell the difference between friend and stranger. Without socialization, protection can become suspicion. Introduce the dog to many people and places while young, and keep training positive.

Hair over the eyes

Many Briards keep their facial hair long, which is part of the breed's look. Brush the hair away from the eyes regularly, keep it clean and consider light trimming for vision and comfort.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Briard suits experienced, committed owners who want a loyal, shaggy guardian and will groom. It may not suit those wanting a low-maintenance or outgoing dog. For a smaller shaggy herder, see the Bearded Collie.

The hook at the end of the tail

The Briard's tail ends in a distinctive J-shaped hook, a feature judges look for and owners come to love. Keep the tail hair clean and free of burrs, and check it after walks. Brushing the long feathering on the tail and legs regularly prevents tangles that can pull painfully when the dog moves.

Companionship needs

Briards were raised to stay close to the flock and the shepherd. Many follow their family from room to room and become unhappy when isolated. If you work away from home, plan for company, such as a dog walker, a friend or daycare, and teach calm alone time gradually.

The takeaway

Briards are loyal, shaggy and protective, and they need socialization, grooming and company.