Briard - MAIN HUB
BREED GROUP
Herding Dogs
Country of origin
France
BREED SIZE
Large
BREED HEIGHT
24 -
27 IN
61 -
69 cm
BREED WEIGHT
55 -
100 LB
25 -
45 KG
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
american kennel club (AKC) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1928.
International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition
Yes
Breed was recognized in 1954.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
Are Briards good family dogs?
Great
9 out of 10
The Briard is a devoted and loyal family companion, often described as a "heart wrapped in fur" due to its deep attachment to its people. While they are protective and excellent with family members, their high energy levels and independent spirit require an owner who can provide consistent training and at least two hours of daily exercise.
Are Briards good with kids?
Great
9 out of 10
Briards are generally excellent with children, often described as devoted protectors who are especially fond of the kids in their family. Their natural patience and protective instincts make them patient companions, though their large size and high energy mean play should be supervised, particularly with toddlers. Early socialization is key to managing their herding instinct, which may lead them to nudge or nip at heels during play.
Are Briards good dogs for first time owners?
Not Recommended
1 out of 10
Briards are generally not recommended for first-time owners due to their large size, high energy, and independent nature. They require a confident handler with a good knowledge base to manage their protective instincts and herding drive. Success with this breed demands a significant commitment to intensive daily exercise, consistent professional training, and extensive early socialization to ensure they become well-adjusted family companions.
Are Briards good apartment dogs?
Poor
2 out of 10
Briards can adapt to apartment living if their high physical and mental exercise needs are met. While they are calm and relaxed indoors, their large size and high energy levels make them better suited for homes with more space and a yard. Owners must commit to at least two hours of daily activity and frequent outdoor romps to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors in smaller living environments.
Do Briards need a yard?
Highly Recommended
2 out of 10
A yard is not strictly required for a Briard, as they can adapt to apartment living if their high physical and mental exercise needs are met. However, a large, securely fenced yard is highly recommended to accommodate their high energy levels and provide a safe space for off-leash play and daily romps. Owners must commit to significant daily activity, such as long walks or runs, to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors if a yard is unavailable.
Can Briards be left at home alone?
Poor
2 out of 10
Briards are deeply devoted to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. While they can manage a few hours of solitude, they thrive on human companionship and prefer to be near their people as much as possible. Without sufficient mental stimulation and exercise before being left alone, they may become bored and engage in destructive behaviors like chewing or excessive barking.
Do Briards tolerate cats well?
Fair
4 out of 10
They may chase cats and other small animals, as noted in breed personality profiles.
Are Briards known to be aggressive?
Protective
3 out of 10
Briards are not naturally aggressive but possess strong protective instincts that require early socialization and training to manage. While they are famously loyal and gentle with their families, their history as independent guardians can lead to aloofness or suspicion toward strangers. Consistent, positive reinforcement and early exposure to various people and environments are essential to ensure their natural watchdog abilities do not develop into fearful or territorial aggression.
Do Briards have a lot of energy?
Very High
9 out of 10
Briards are high-energy herding dogs that require significant daily physical and mental exercise to stay healthy and well-behaved. They thrive on activities like long walks, jogs, and interactive play, typically needing between one and two hours of vigorous activity each day. Without a proper outlet for their athletic spirit and intelligence, they may become bored and develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking.
How much exercise do Briards need?
~90 min a day
8 out of 10
Briards are highly active herding dogs that require a significant commitment to physical and mental exercise, typically needing at least two hours of activity daily. This should include long walks, jogging, or hiking, along with interactive play and mental challenges like agility or obedience training to satisfy their intelligence and prevent destructive behaviors. While some sources suggest 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity, their working heritage ensures they thrive best with substantial daily engagement and a consistent routine.
Do Briards tolerate hot weather well?
Poor
3 out of 10
Briards have a moderate tolerance for hot weather, but their long, thick double coats make them prone to overheating. Owners should provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during peak sun hours. Because their heavy coat can trap heat, it is important to monitor them closely for signs of heat exhaustion and consider swimming or indoor play as cooler alternatives for exercise.
Are Briards good with cold weather?
Poor
3 out of 10
Briards have a moderate tolerance for hot weather, but their long, thick double coats make them prone to overheating. Owners should provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and avoid strenuous exercise during peak sun hours. Because their heavy coat can trap heat, it is important to monitor them closely for signs of heat exhaustion and consider swimming or indoor play as cooler alternatives for exercise.
Are Briards sometimes banned from rentals?
Highly Likely
2 out of 10
They are large (up to 100 lbs) rather than giant (over 100 lbs) dogs.
WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?
