Variety:
Briar
Country of origin:
France
Purpose:
Domestic dog
Colours:
Black, straw, grey or blue. All colours may have a slightly greying coat
Character
Intelligent, sensible, obedient, loyal, alert, fearless, watchful, sometimes stubborn
Height:
56-68 cm
Weight:
33-35 kg
Longevity:
11-13 years
Other names:
French Longhaired Shepherd, Briard
Hypoallergenic:
No
Litter size:
8-10 puppies
Briard – is a medium sized dog with alertness and judgement. This breed can be a little stubborn at times, and is therefore only suitable for people who are of a strong character, and who are willing to train their pet consistently. Briards are most comfortable in a home, but it is important that there is enough space – if the dog feels that there is not enough space, it may become irritable. Briards can get along with pets in the house, but they usually do not like other dogs. Briars do not trust strangers, so if trained properly they can make excellent guardians;
History of the breed
Briards were first mentioned in written records in the 12th century, but it wasn’t until the late 19th century that the breed took on its present appearance. It has been hypothesised that the breed was the result of a cross between Boseros and Barbets, but this hypothesis has not been 100% confirmed. The breed was particularly popular in the province of Bri, where the dogs were highly valued for their guarding ability. The breed was named after the province where the dogs were most common. The first official breed standard was recorded in 1897, but the modern breed standard came into force much later – only in 2009. After the Second World War, American soldiers brought Briards to the USA, but it was not until 50 years later that the breed was recognised here. Today, Briards are very popular in France.
Briard: appearance
The Briard is a medium-sized dog – the height at the withers of males is usually 62-68 cm and that of females 56-64 cm. The body of this breed is elongated – the length of the torso from the shoulders to the buttocks must exceed the height at the withers. The back is straight, the sacrum short and firm. The forelegs are of medium length and sloping, the hind legs are very muscular. The paws are strong and rounded. Claws black (except in blue dogs). Tail of medium length, almost reaching the heels. Skull firm, appearing rounded when viewed from the side. Nose tip black, except in blue dogs, which may have a blue or semi-blue nose. The tip of the muzzle is square, fairly broad and firm. Lips compressed, jaws firm, bite scissor-like. Eyes are large, oval, dark (may be slightly lighter in blue dogs). Ears erect, small, flat, with long hair. Coat is shaggy, not overly luxuriant, long, with a light undercoat. Permissible coat colours: black, straw, grey or blue. All colours may appear slightly greyish.
Briard: character
The Briard is not a dog that requires a lot of exercise, but if it has no energy to channel, it may become irritable or find itself doing things that its owners will not like. Briards are excellent family friends, getting on well with people of all ages. This breed is usually happy to be with children, but it is important to watch how children treat the pet (the Briard finds it very difficult to forgive abuse). Although Briards may appear to be very tough and fearless dogs, there are many things that can frighten them. Most of the breed is afraid of thunderstorms, fireworks and other unusual noises, so it is important to socialise your pet from a young age. If a Briard grows up with other pets from a young age, there is a good chance that it will get along well with them, but Briards take to new „homes“ very well