Briard
The Good
- Extremely loyal and devoted to family
- Intelligent and trainable with consistent approach
- Excellent watchdog with natural protective instincts
- Low shedding coat despite its length
- Athletic and energetic companion for active families
The Real
- Requires extensive grooming (2+ hours weekly)
- Can be independent and stubborn during training
- Strong herding instincts may lead to nipping at children
- Wary of strangers and needs extensive socialisation
- High exercise and mental stimulation requirements
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Briard is like having a French aristocrat with a working-class heart living in your home. These magnificent dogs pack incredible loyalty, intelligence, and spirit into their substantial frames - it's no wonder they're often described as "hearts wrapped in fur." Originally bred in the French countryside to both guard and herd sheep, Briards bring that same protective devotion to Australian families today.
What strikes you first about a Briard is that gorgeous, flowing coat that parts naturally down the middle, creating an almost peek-a-boo effect over their expressive eyes. But don't let those romantic good looks fool you - underneath all that hair is a serious athlete. These dogs move with surprising grace for their size, capable of the quick turns and sudden stops that made them legendary sheepherders.
In Australian homes, Briards adapt well to family life, but they're definitely not couch potatoes. They thrive with active families who can appreciate their unique blend of independence and devotion. Think of them as that reliable mate who's always got your back but isn't afraid to voice their opinion when they think you're making a mistake. They're particularly wonderful with children, though their herding instincts mean they might try to keep the kids in line during backyard play!
History
History
The Briard's story reads like a French historical novel, stretching back over a thousand years to the time of Emperor Charlemagne. These dogs appear in 8th-century tapestries, working alongside French nobility and common farmers alike. Named after the Brie region of France (yes, where the cheese comes from), these dogs were originally called "Chien Berger de Brie" and were bred for the serious business of protecting and herding sheep in the French countryside.
What makes their history particularly fascinating is their connection to some pretty famous figures. Napoleon Bonaparte reportedly kept Briards, and when Thomas Jefferson served as US ambassador to France, he was so impressed with the breed that he received one as a gift and brought it back to America. The Marquis de Lafayette is also credited with introducing Briards to the Americas, showing just how highly regarded these dogs were among the French elite.
The breed's development was shaped by the practical needs of French farmers who required dogs capable of making independent decisions while working far from their handlers. This selective breeding created dogs with the perfect balance of loyalty and independence - traits that serve them well in modern Australian homes. The American Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1928, and since then, Briards have been winning hearts worldwide with their combination of working ability and devoted companionship.
Traits & Characteristics
Briard characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Briards are generally robust dogs with a lifespan of around 12 years, but like most large breeds, they do have some health considerations Australian owners should know about. The good news is that responsible breeders screen for these conditions, so choosing the right breeder is crucial.
Hip dysplasia is probably the most common concern, where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis later in life. You'll want to watch for signs like limping, reluctance to jump up, or shifting weight to the front legs. Most cases can be managed with proper exercise, weight management, and sometimes medication, though severe cases might need surgery.
Their beautiful eyes can also be vulnerable to several hereditary conditions. Some Briards are born with congenital stationary night blindness, which means they've always had trouble seeing in dim light but can live perfectly happy lives with a bit of extra care from you. Hereditary cataracts and corneal dystrophy are other eye conditions to be aware of, so regular check-ups with your vet are important.
Hypothyroidism is another condition that affects some Briards, particularly as they age. This affects their metabolism and can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. The good news is it's easily managed with daily medication once diagnosed.
Australian owners should also be mindful of tick prevention, particularly in Queensland and coastal areas, as Briards' thick coats can make it harder to spot these dangerous parasites during your regular checks.
Feeding a Briard properly is about understanding you're fueling an athlete, even if your particular athlete spends more time on the couch than originally intended! These are substantial dogs with energy to burn, so they need high-quality nutrition to match their active lifestyle.
Most adult Briards do well with two meals a day - morning and evening - which helps prevent bloat, a serious condition that can affect deep-chested breeds. Puppies, with their higher metabolisms, typically need three meals daily until they're mature. The exact amount depends on your dog's age, weight, activity level, and metabolism, so partnering with your Australian vet is essential for getting the portions right.
Look for dog foods that meet nutritional standards and are appropriate for your Briard's life stage. Active Briards who spend weekends hiking in the Blue Mountains or running on Bondi Beach will need more calories than their more sedentary cousins. The feeding guide on your dog food bag gives you a starting point, but your vet can help fine-tune the amount based on your dog's body condition.
Treats are fantastic training tools for these intelligent dogs, but remember they should never make up more than 10% of daily calories. Many Australian Briard owners find puzzle feeders and food-dispensing toys helpful for providing mental stimulation while slowing down eager eaters.
If you're feeding a complete, balanced commercial diet, supplements usually aren't necessary unless recommended by your vet for specific health conditions. Always have fresh water available, especially during Australia's hotter months.
Let's be honest about Briard grooming - it's a commitment that'll become a regular part of your weekly routine. Plan on spending at least two hours every week keeping that magnificent coat in top condition, and trust me, it's worth every minute when you see how stunning they look.
That beautiful double coat is designed for outdoor work and naturally repels dirt and water, which is brilliant for Australian conditions. However, it needs regular brushing several times a week to prevent matting and keep it healthy. Use a good-quality pin brush and work right down to the skin - this isn't a job for a quick once-over. An undercoat rake can help remove dead hair and reduce the amount you'll find around your home.
Bathing frequency depends on your Briard's lifestyle. If they're regular beach walkers or love muddy bush walks, they'll need more frequent baths than homebodies. However, don't overdo it - too many baths can strip the natural oils that keep their coat healthy. When you do bathe them, make sure they're thoroughly dry to prevent skin issues in that thick coat.
Pay special attention to their ears, which can trap moisture and debris. Regular cleaning helps prevent infections, which these floppy-eared beauties are prone to. Their eyes also need regular attention - gently clean around them and watch for any signs of irritation or discharge.
Many Australian owners find it helpful to establish a grooming routine early, making it a positive experience with treats and praise. Some prefer to use professional groomers for the more intensive sessions, which is perfectly fine - just maintain the brushing routine at home between visits.
Training a Briard is like working with a brilliant teenager - they're incredibly smart and capable, but they definitely have their own opinions about how things should be done! These dogs were bred to make independent decisions while working sheep, which means they sometimes think they know better than you do.
The key to success is positive reinforcement training that keeps sessions interesting and energetic. Briards learn quickly and have excellent memories, but they can get bored with repetitive training. Mix things up with different activities - they excel at obedience, agility, tracking, and even search-and-rescue work. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities perfect for channelling their intelligence and energy.
Exercise-wise, think of Briards as athletes who need a job. A quick walk around the block won't cut it - they need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. They make fantastic companions for hiking in places like the Grampians or Blue Mountains, cycling along coastal paths, or jogging through your local parks. A securely fenced yard where they can run freely is ideal, though they're equally happy playing fetch or chasing a frisbee.
Socialisation is absolutely crucial and should start early and continue throughout their lives. These naturally protective dogs can be wary of strangers and new situations, so exposing them to different people, animals, and environments helps them become well-rounded adults. Australian puppy schools are excellent for this, and many continue with adult socialisation classes.
Remember, a tired Briard is a good Briard. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they can become destructive or develop excessive barking habits - not ideal for maintaining good relationships with your Australian neighbours!
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Briard owner is someone who appreciates having a true partnership with their dog rather than just a pet. These aren't dogs for everyone, but for the right family, they're absolutely incredible companions.
You'll need to be home enough to provide daily companionship - Briards don't do well left alone for long periods. They're happiest as part of a busy household where there's always something happening. Families with children are often ideal, as the controlled chaos of family life provides excellent socialisation opportunities for Briard puppies.
Active individuals or families work best with this breed. If you love weekend hiking trips, cycling adventures, or regular beach walks, a Briard could be your perfect companion. They adapt well to various Australian lifestyles, from suburban families in Perth to active retirees on the Gold Coast, as long as their exercise needs are met.
You'll need patience and consistency for training, plus the time and budget for extensive grooming. Some owners learn to do basic grooming themselves, while others budget for professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Either way, it's a significant commitment.
Financial preparation is important too - large dogs mean larger vet bills, more expensive food, and higher costs for boarding or pet insurance. You'll also need to puppy-proof for a large, intelligent dog who can reach countertops and open doors!
Most importantly, you need to be committed to providing a loving home for 12+ years. Briards form incredibly strong bonds with their families, and they don't adapt well to rehoming situations.
Interesting facts about the Briard
Interesting Fact
The Briard appears in French tapestries dating back to the 8th century, making them one of the oldest documented breeds
Interesting Fact
Both Napoleon Bonaparte and Thomas Jefferson owned Briards, with Jefferson receiving his as a diplomatic gift while serving as ambassador to France
Interesting Fact
The Marquis de Lafayette is credited with bringing the first Briards to America
Interesting Fact
A French society called "Les Amis du Briard" (Friends of the Briard) was founded in 1909 and established the precise breed standard in 1925
FAQ
You can expect to pay at least $1,500-$2,500 for a Briard puppy from a reputable Australian breeder, though prices can vary significantly based on the breeder's reputation and the puppy's lineage. Remember to factor in ongoing costs like grooming, quality food, and veterinary care for a large breed.
Briards can make excellent family pets for the right household. They're intelligent, loyal, and brave dogs who form strong bonds with their families. However, they need families who can provide extensive socialisation, consistent positive training, daily exercise, and close companionship. They're particularly good with children but may try to herd them during play.
Plan on spending at least two hours every week grooming your Briard. Their long, wavy coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent matting and keep it healthy. While they don't shed much, the grooming commitment is significant and non-negotiable for keeping them comfortable and looking their best.
While possible, apartments aren't ideal for Briards unless you're extremely committed to providing substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. They're large, active dogs who do best with access to a securely fenced yard. If you're in an apartment, you'll need to ensure multiple long walks, runs, or hikes daily, plus regular visits to off-leash dog parks.
Briards generally handle Australia's varied climate reasonably well, though their thick coat means they can struggle in extreme heat. In places like Darwin or during Perth summers, you'll need to exercise them during cooler parts of the day and ensure they have access to shade and water. In cooler climates like Melbourne or Canberra winters, they're quite comfortable.
Briards can live with other pets, but introductions need to be done carefully and slowly. They often do better with opposite-sex dogs to reduce potential conflicts. If you want cats, it's best to introduce the cat first so they can establish the household hierarchy. Their herding instincts mean they may try to manage other pets, which requires consistent training to redirect.