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Briard

Briard is a large herding breed from France also known as Berger de Brie.

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Briard

Breed overview

Briard is a large herding breed from France also known as Berger de Brie.

An old French herding breed (dating back to at least the 14th century), named after the region of Brie. It was used both to herd and to guard flocks.

People looking into Briard usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 55–100 lbs • 22–27 in.

Berger de Brie

History and origin

Briard is tied to originating from France, specifically Brie region, with sources often placing its development around 1387 CE.

Briard is described here as placed in the herding group and marked as an established breed.

An old French herding breed (dating back to at least the 14th century), named after the region of Brie. It was used both to herd and to guard flocks.

Browse dog breeds from France Browse more herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
herding
Size
Large
Origin country
France
Region
Brie region
Origin year
1387 CE
Weight
55–100 lbs
Height
22–27 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Briard is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongWavyDry

Briard is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Long, shaggy double coat
  • Double dewclaws on rear legs
  • Long beard and moustache
  • Large head with ears standing or semi-standing

What this breed is known for

  • An old French herding breed (dating back to at least the 14th century), named after the region of Brie. It was used both to herd and to guard flocks.
  • Briards are large, with a long wavy coat that can be black, tawny, or gray. They have distinctive double dewclaws on each rear leg, a trait of French herding breeds.
  • They are loyal, intelligent, and protective. After World War I (where they served as sentry and medic dogs), the Briard's popularity grew as a family and farm guardian.

Health and care notes

Briard is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Bloat

Coat details: Long, Wavy, Dry

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Briard come from?

Briard is closely associated with France, especially Brie region in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Briard get?

Typical size details for Briard on this page are 55–100 lbs, 22–27 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Briard known for?

An old French herding breed (dating back to at least the 14th century), named after the region of Brie. It was used both to herd and to guard flocks.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Briard reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.