Herding Group
Briard
Champion Pedigree
Devoted
Shaggy
Herder
An ancient French herding and guardian breed, the Briard is a large, shaggy-coated dog with a long history dating back to medieval France. Fiercely loyal to family, it combines a protective instinct with a playful, almost heart-shaped devotion to its people.
Lifespan
10–12 years.
Did You Know?
Briards are said to have accompanied Napoleon’s and Thomas Jefferson’s households, with Jefferson reportedly importing several for his Monticello estate.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 23–27 in. tall, 70–90 lbs; females 22–25.5 in. tall, 55–75 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Coat & Grooming
Long, wavy, coarse double coat; moderate shedder, requires extensive regular grooming.
Good With Families
Deeply devoted and protective, generally excellent with children in its own family.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Berger de Brie
Origin
France, an ancient herding and guardian breed.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Loyal, protective, and intelligent; can be reserved with strangers and needs early socialization given its size and guarding instincts.
Coat Colors
Black, gray, and tawny, often with a slight fading toward the tips.
Working Roles
Historically a livestock herding and guardian dog in France; today used in police, military, and search and rescue work.
Health & Wellness
Generally healthy, though hip dysplasia and a hereditary night blindness condition are worth screening for.
Notable Briards
Thomas Jefferson’s Dogs
Reportedly kept and imported Briards for his Monticello estate.
Registry Champions
A distinctively shaggy presence in the herding group at conformation shows.
French Guardian Heritage
An ancient breed with a documented history stretching back to medieval France.
Related Reading
Briard Gifts
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