The Briard is what the dog specialists would recommend to people looking for more than just a cute and friendly companion. If you are looking for a dog whose abilities and characteristics you can admire and show off, then this is the right choice. The breed has been documented since the 14th century as appearing in French texts, but has become popular after the Paris dog show in 1863. This is the long coat version of the other sheep dog breed developed at the time, the Beauceron. Not only a good herding dog, the breed has been used in WWI to find the wounded soldiers, detect mine fields, run messages, pick up trails, and carry food to the front.
This is a medium sized dog, which makes it suited for both herding activities: herding and guarding. It can grow 22-27 inches tall and its coat can be 6 inches long and even longer, of various tones and colors. The puppies coats are lighter and will grow darker as they reach adulthood. Although it has become illegal in Europe, the ears of the Briard can be cropped, but they will look just as well natural, as they do not fall flat both sides of the face, but high on the head. A characteristic met in other French herding dogs as well, the breed has double dewclaws, which allows it to turn around and climb hills faster.
As far as the temperament is concerned, the breed is known for its strong attachment and protective attitude toward the family, which it sees as a flock that needs guarding. The Briard is a very emotional dog which can cry for very long periods of time upon separation from its owner and can express great joy upon meeting him or her again. This is a dog which will require a strong hand in training and leadership and it will be very obedient and dedicated. It is very good with children, whom it will protect with the price of its life.
Not being a large dog makes it suited for apartment life, but it will still require long walks, just like any other dog. Socialization is very important for the Briard, because it tends to keep to the family and see anything from the outside as a possible threat. Anything you want to introduce into the house must be first introduced to the dog as non-threatening. It has a very good memory and whatever you teach it is well taught. Many owners of this breed enter their dogs in competitions of agility and herding in particular. They have also been praised for their activity as police dogs.
Grooming this dog is a bit challenging, as the coat is coarse and long, but if groomed properly it will not shed. The life expectancy is of 10-12 years; these are generally healthy dogs with very few specific health problems. The Briard is a wonderful dog, sensitive and loyal, obedient and intelligent, perfect to lend a hand with big families, and the star of dog shows.
