Briard

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingDaily grooming

  Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Progressive retinal atrophy · Bloat (GDV)

The Briard is France's 'heart wrapped in fur' — a large, shaggy herding dog that both guarded and drove flocks and served as a messenger and rescue dog in both World Wars. Intelligent, loyal, protective and famously devoted, it bonds totally with its family and has a strong memory and a mind of its own, so it needs early, thorough socialisation and consistent, patient, positive training to become the confident, well-mannered dog it should be. It has real herding energy and needs substantial daily exercise and mental engagement, and it can be reserved with strangers and a natural guardian, so socialisation is key. The long, coarse, wavy double coat is a major commitment: it mats easily and needs thorough brushing several times a week, plus attention to the coat over the eyes. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and congenital night blindness, hypothyroidism, and bloat and gastric torsion — a serious risk in this deep-chested breed, so feed measured meals from a raised bowl and rest after eating. Commit to the grooming, give a Briard exercise, socialisation, positive training and close family life, guard against bloat, and this devoted French shepherd will be a loyal companion for ten to twelve years.

• How much exercise does a Briard need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Briard need?

  Daily grooming. Daily brushing (and pro grooming) keeps the coat in shape.

• Is a Briard suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Briard a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Briard live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Briard?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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