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Briard Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Briard so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank127
Reviews2
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Briard dog profile picture
OriginFrance flagFrance
Other Names
What other names does the Briard have?
Berger BriardBerger De Brie
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Photo Gallery of the Briard Breed

Briard Size and Weight

Size
Is a Briard small, medium or large dog?

How big do Briard get?

What is the average size of a Briard?

Large
Weight
How much does the Briard weigh? How much should a Briard weight? What is the normal weight of a Briard? How much does a full-grown Briard weight?
75 pounds (35 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Briard?
75 pounds (35 kg)
Height
How tall is the Briard? Briard height:
Male: 24-27 inches (62-68 cm), Female: 22-25 inches (56-64 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Briard?
Male: 25.5 inches (65 cm), Female: 23.5 inches (60 cm)

Briard Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Briard puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Briard in the United States? How much money is a Briard?

Where to buy a Briard with a good pedigree?

$1000-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Briard, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Briard for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Briard gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Briard? How many Briard are there in the world?
Frequent: The Briard is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Briard Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Briard? Is the Briard breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Briard dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Briard is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Briard dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Briard?
Briard dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Briard good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Briard dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Briard dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Briard dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Briard dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Briard can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Briard will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Briard Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Briard have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ProtectiveIntelligentObedientLoyalFearlessFaithful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Briard sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Briard dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Briard a good family dog?
High: Briard dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Berger Briard need? Briard social needs:
Briard dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Briard to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Briard roam?
Briard dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Briard have high prey drive?
Briard dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Briard Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Briards, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Briard dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Berger Briard bark?
Average: The Briard barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Briard good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Briard in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Briard breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Briard indoors by introducing daily routines.

Briard Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Briard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Briard be left alone? How long can you leave a Briard alone?
Briard dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Briard Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Briard has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Briard? How much bite force does a Briard have? How strong is a Briard bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Briard bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Briard measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Briard is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Briard bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Briard bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Briard puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Briard, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Briard bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Briard can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Briard bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Berger Briard? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Briard? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Briard has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Briard do?
Briard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Briard dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Briard Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Briard dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Briard is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Briard breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Briard see the vet?
Average
The Briard should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Briard dogs live? How old can a Briard be? What is the age limit of the Briard? How many years can the oldest Briard live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Briard?

How long is the lifespan of a Briard?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Briard: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Briard can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Briard Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Briard have? What is the activity level of the Briard?
Briard dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Briard need? How much exercise do Briard dogs require per day?

Do Briard dogs need a lot of exercises?

Briard dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Briard breed need?
Briard dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Briard Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Briard need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Briard breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Briard? How much food should I feed my Briard?
4 to 7 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Briard risk for obesity:
Average: The Briard has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Briard weight regularly.

Briard Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Briard have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Fine
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Briard coats?
BlackGrayTawny
Grooming
How to groom the Briard and how often? How often should I take my Briard to the groomer?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. The Briard requires grooming on a daily basis.

Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer is essential. Everyday brushing of the dog's coat is necessary to reduce shedding.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath should be on a weekly schedule.

Taking good care of your Briard is time-consuming and requires excellent grooming skills. If you don't have the time and skill search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Briard dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Berger Briard? Do Briard dogs shed a lot?
Briard dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Briard need a bath? How often should you give a Briard a bath? Can I bathe my Briard every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Briard breed hypoallergenic?
No
Briard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Briard has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Briard drool?
The Briard is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Briard could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Briard.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Briard Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Briard dogs get along with other pets? Are Briard dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Briard dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Briard temperament with other people:
Briard dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Briard dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Briard temperament with children:
Briard dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Briard dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Briard breed live with a cat?
Briard dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Briard good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Briard dogs get along with other dogs?
Briard dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Briard breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Briard breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Briard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Briard dogs good office canines? Do Briard dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Briard is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Briard dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Berger Briard temperament with senior people? Are Briard dogs good for elderly owners?
Briards are usually recommended for elderly people.

Briard As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Briard be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Briard is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Briard be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Briard be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Briard is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Briard be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Briard is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Briard be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Briard is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Briard be a boat dog?

Not really

Briard breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Briard be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Briard is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Briard dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Briard Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Briard pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Briard breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Briard: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Briard have in a litter? How many puppies can the Briard breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Briard have? How many puppies can a Briard give birth to?
8-10 puppies

Briard Recognition

AKC Group
Is Briard recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1928 as a Herding breed.
FCI Group
Is Briard recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs) group, in the Sheepdogs section.

Briard Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Briard dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Briard dogs are easy to train.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Briard is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Briard dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Briard dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Adaptability: Briard dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Briard dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Briards are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Briard dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Briard dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Briard breed in the home.
  • Grooming: Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Briard dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Briard dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Briard is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Briard Breed

Briard Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • RottnBri

    Nov 18, 2023, 10:42:55 PM:

    Whomever accumulated this information clearly has never met a Briard. Lots of misinformation here.

  • frank

    Apr 2, 2023, 8:02:59 PM:

    love em