The Briard, also known as the Chien Berger de Brie, is said to be "a heart of gold wrapped in fur." He is intelligent, loyal, eager to please and naturally protective. In the home environment, he is calm and relaxed but while working, he can trot all day long without tiring.
The Briard is an ancient French herding breed dating back to the eighth century. The Emperor Charlemagne as well as Napoleon were said to have owned this breed of dog. Since early times, the Briard was used as a guardian of the flocks and a herding dog. He was the official dog of the French army and, because so many were lost in both world wars, the Briard is somewhat rare today. Used as sentry dogs, to carry supplies to the front lines, and to search for wounded soldiers, the Briard was reported to have an amazing ability to lead the medical corps to the wounded.
Along with his loyalty and courage, he is completely devoted to his home and family, especially children, and makes an excellent guardian and watch dog. As with most herding breeds, the Briard is an independent thinker. However, he is obedient, learns quickly and has an excellent memory.
The Briard is a versatile herding dog who fetches, drives and does boundary work. He can also work all types of livestock and works as the shepherd's partner with a very keen herding instinct. Known as an upright breed, he works quietly, circling, and exhibiting a natural "power", always eager, intense and alert. Being a working breed, he enjoys having a job to do — be it herding, guarding, agility, tracking, or even carting.
He has a long outer coat that is coarse, hard and dry. It lies flat on his body, falling in a slight wave. The undercoat is soft and fine. His strong head is covered with hair that arches into eyebrows and forms a beard under his chin. The most common coat colours are tawny or black with the occasional blue-grey being seen.
TOP
Health Issues:
If you are considering the adoption of a Briard puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. The Briard Club of America recommends testing for genetic disorders such as Hip Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, von Willebrand's Disease, Hypothyroidism, night blindness, and other tests as they become available should be done before breeding. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Bloat — As with many large breeds, the occurrence of Bloat or Gastric Torsion is a real possibility in the Briard. If you are not familiar with this condition, it is absolutely necessary to learn about it and know the symptoms — This is a real emergency and a life threatening condition that requires immediate Veterinary attention. See Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) — Bloat in the Health and Nutrition section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for more information and Bloat Information from the Briard Club of America, as well as First Aid for Bloat for an article describing some of the things you can do if you are faced with this situation.
Health Resources:
TOP
Breed Standards:
TOP
Training Resources:
Because guarding and herding are natural instincts to the Briard, he can be somewhat aloof toward strangers. Early socialization is strongly recommended for this breed — this will not deter his guarding instincts.
- Training — For information on training your Briard, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
 |
AKC BRIARD VIDEO
27 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com |
TOP
Grooming the Briard:
- Grooming — Grooming tips & techniques, plus a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
TOP
Additional Information:
- Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Briards
- Herding Dogs — A new section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website which includes training and general information about Herding/Stock Dogs; listing of Stock Dog Clubs and Associations; listing of upcoming shows and events; and more.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — Information on the various sports and activities you can get involved in with your Briard as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (For breed specific clubs in Canada and around the World, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — A section dedicated to the working dog. See information about some of the jobs you can get involved in with your dog.
CKC-AKC CH. Roi d'Berger's Oh Darling
