Briard
The Briard is one of France's oldest and most distinguished herding breeds, with a history stretching back centuries.
Originally developed in the Brie region of northern France, these intelligent dogs were used by shepherds to both herd and guard flocks.
25-34kg
Weight
Large
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Briard
Their courage and trainability later earned them important roles in search and rescue operations and military service during the World Wars. Today, the Briard remains a striking and capable companion. A large, strongly built dog, it typically weighs 25–34 kg and stands 51–61 cm tall, distinguished by its long, thick coat in black, fawn, or grey, along with a characteristic beard and moustache. The coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming several times yearly to maintain its condition. Briards are warm-natured, intelligent and deeply devoted to their families, forming powerful bonds with those they know well. Though naturally reserved with strangers, they are loyal and trustworthy companions when properly socialised. Their confident nature and herding instincts mean firm, consistent training from an early age is important. These energetic dogs thrive with more than two hours of daily exercise and a sense of purpose. When well trained and socialised, the Briard makes a steadfastly reliable family dog, best suited to active, experienced owners who appreciate a highly capable working breed.
Briard at a Glance
- Group
- Pastoral
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Long
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- More than 2 hours per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Briard Temperament
The Briard is a warm-natured, intelligent and courageous breed with a strong devotion to its family. Though naturally reserved and watchful around strangers, it is a trustworthy and loyal companion to those it knows and loves. Briards are highly intelligent and trainable, though their confident, sometimes boisterous nature means firm, consistent guidance from an early age is important for such a large dog. They are energetic and active, thriving with regular exercise and a sense of purpose. Their beautiful, flowing coat requires regular maintenance. When well socialised and properly trained, the Briard is a deeply affectionate and steadfastly reliable family dog.
Briard Lifestyle
The Briard needs a reasonably large house to be comfortable and is ideally suited to a home with a big garden. They are versatile and do well in both city and countryside settings.
Dog Food for Briard
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Briard
Briard Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Briard weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Briard Characteristics
The Briard is a high-energy breed that needs a real outlet every day and is a quick learner and a pleasure to train. They thrive in a busy family environment, but can be left alone without too much trouble if their needs are met. The coat needs occasional grooming to stay tidy and is a moderate shedder. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Briard Pros & Cons
Pros
- Loyal and devoted family companions with strong protective instincts
- A distinctive, relatively low-shedding double coat with seasonal variation
- Highly intelligent and trainable, excelling in obedience and herding activities
- Thrives in active outdoor lifestyles with plenty of space to move
Cons
- Needs a minimum of two hours of daily exercise to stay balanced and well-behaved
- The long, dense double coat is high maintenance and needs consistent attention
- Requires a secure, spacious home with a well-fenced garden
- Not a good fit for first-time owners given their strength and complex temperament
