Briard
Quick Facts:
- AKC recognized in 1928
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Size: Medium
- Energy: Medium
- Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
Introduction
Briards are herding dogs originating from France that became more popular after the Paris dog show in 1863.
This dog breed is the result from a Beauceron and Barbet crossing.
Briards were used during World War I as a messenger, sentry, and searcher for wounded soldiers. Nowadays Briard dogs do their jobs as search and rescue dogs in the military, as police dogs and as companion dogs in families.
Breed
The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Briards in 1928.
These medium energy dogs are known as smart, independent, and reliable.
Briards live for their jobs. They were used in many herding situations and usually cooperate with other briards or other dog breeds, by working in a group. So they are friendly with other dogs, kids, and their families.
They are now ranked as the 132nd most popular dog breed by AKC.
Appearance
Briard dogs can weigh between 55 to 100 pounds and have a 23 to 27 inches standing height.
Clean freaks can consider them because they are known as non-shedders.
They are double-coated with a coarse outer coat and soft undercoat.
There are 7 colors of Briards recognized by AKC but only 3 of them are standard which are black, gray, and tawny. Black gray, black tawny, tawny gray, white, and white markings are registered but not standard.
Nutrition
It is recommended to provide feed formulated to 55-100 pounds sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine the size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a healthy, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.
Grooming
Although they are considered as non-shedders, in fact, every dog sheds, if even just a little.
If you do not have a few hours in a week to groom the Briard, then consider another dog breed. As you can see their coat requires combing, brushing, and a bit of fussing every day.
A bath once a month will be good to keep them at their best. They get dirty easily so check to clean their face after every meal. Also check their ears, nose, and other parts to remove any wax, debris, or dirt. Brush their teeth at least twice a week and trim the nails once a month.
Exercise
Briards might look calm and fine on the outside but they have the instinct to play and explore on the inside.
At least 30 to 60 minutes every day is needed for their exercise, with examples such as running or chasing.
Herding training is good to satisfy their instinct. They have wanderlust potential since they are herding dogs so consider crate training or fencing your house if you leave them at home without any supervision.
Leaving them with kids and other dogs are acceptable when you’ve provided sufficient activities and appropriate training for them because they have good manner.
Pet Crate Size
Pet Crates Direct recommends a 48" dog crate* for most adult Briard dogs.
Return to the main Dog Crate Sizes Breed Chart.
* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.
