What is the temperament of a Briard?

Briards are known to be fearless, loyal, obedient, intelligent, faithful, protective, affectionate, friendly, gentle. This combination of traits makes them excellent companions for families with children. Their temperament is influenced by both genetics and proper socialization from an early age.

How much exercise does a Briard need?

Briards are high-energy dogs requiring 60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.

How often should I groom my Briard?

Briards require intensive grooming with daily brushing and regular professional grooming sessions.

How do I train a Briard?

Briards are highly trainable and typically respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Are Briards good with children?

Briards are excellent with children. Their natural patience, gentle nature, and resilience make them outstanding family dogs. They typically form strong bonds with children and tend to be forgiving of the occasional accidental rough handling that can occur with younger kids. Remember that proper socialization and teaching children appropriate interaction with dogs are always important, regardless of breed.

What makes the Briard unique compared to other dog breeds?

The Briard stands out from other breeds due to its rich heritage from ፈረንሣይ, natural protective instincts. This unique combination of characteristics makes them special among dog breeds and appeals to owners who appreciate these distinct qualities. Understanding these traits helps provide appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

What should I know before getting a Briard?

Before bringing a Briard into your home, potential owners should consider: They have high exercise requirements (4/5) and need an active owner. Their coat requires significant maintenance (4/5) with regular grooming sessions. They typically excel in family environments with children (5/5 child-friendliness). They're typically highly trainable (4/5) and eager to learn. Their large size requires adequate living space. Additionally, researching reputable breeders or rescue organizations is essential for finding a healthy, well-socialized Briard. Understanding these factors will help ensure a good match between the breed and your lifestyle, leading to a happy relationship for both you and your dog.

What were Briards originally bred for?

Briards were originally bred for herding, guarding sheep. This herding heritage explains their intelligence, focus, and sometimes tendency to herd family members, particularly children. As part of the Herding group, they share characteristics with other breeds developed for similar purposes. Understanding your Briard's breeding heritage helps explain many of their natural behaviors and instincts, which can be channeled appropriately through training and enrichment activities. Even though modern Briards are primarily companions, these inherent traits remain part of their genetic makeup.

How long do Briards typically live?

The average lifespan of a Briard is 10 - 12 years. With proper care including quality nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate exercise, and preventative healthcare, some Briards may live beyond this range. Genetics, environment, and healthcare all play important roles in determining longevity.

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Briard

Written by Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinary Consultant

Published: January 15, 2024 • Last updated: August 30, 2025

Temperament

Fearless, Loyal, Obedient, Intelligent, Faithful, Protective, Affectionate, Friendly, Gentle

Weight

70 - 90 lbs

Height

22 - 27 inches

Life Span

10 - 12 years

Breed Group

Herding

Bred For

Herding, guarding sheep

Origin

ፈረንሣይ

Additional Characteristics

Good with Children5/5

Good with Other Dogs5/5

Trainability4/5

Energy Level4/5

Grooming Needs4/5

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs4/5

They are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Grooming Requirements4/5

They have high grooming needs requiring frequent brushing and regular professional grooming.

Trainability4/5

Highly trainable and quick to learn commands

Good with Children5/5

They are excellent with children and often form strong bonds with them.

Good with Other Dogs5/5

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Overview

About the Briard

The Briard is a wonderful dog breed with unique characteristics. dog breed

Breed Purpose

Herding, guarding sheep

Temperament

Fearless, Loyal, Obedient, Intelligent, Faithful, Protective, Affectionate, Friendly, Gentle

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Briard

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