Berger Briard

A protective, smart, loving and loyal breed, the Briard makes a wonderful family pet. Once they have bonded with their family they become totally committed for their entire lifespan. Human contact is essential, and they are happiest in the home as part of the family. They are aloof with strangers, and do not respond readily or easily to any type of change unless they are assured that the change is for the good. The Briard is sensitive and obedient, but definitely have a mind of its own. They are good-natured and get along well with children they are raised with provided they are not teased. This breed may be aggressive toward other dogs without proper introduction. It is important to remember that the Briard's nature is that of a herder and they will attempt to perform this task on anything and everything that moves.

Known for a long time as Chiens de Berger français de Plaine (French Lowlands Sheepdog). It was in 1809, in the Abbot Rozier?s ?Complete Agricultural Course??, that the name ?chien de Brie? appeared for the first time.

It was bred and selected for its herd-driving and guarding aptitudes. The French army also used it during the two world wars as, among other activities, sentinel and ambulance dog searching for the wounded in the war fields.

This is a dog that needs a good amount of activity and interaction every day. He can be satisfied with a long walk or jog, or a long play session coupled with a little training. Its long coat needs brushing or combing every other day or mats can form.

Briards have a high energy level and are natural athletes. They require daily exercise and will become restless without it. This breed loves to swim and are ideal walking and jogging companions. They will do okay in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and do best with an average sized yard. This breed needs a great deal of activity, entertainment, and interaction. The Briard will not allow themselves to be ignored.

Grooming, socialization and training.

The Briard's coat is dirt and water shedding, and if groomed well shed very little. They require daily brushing and combing to prevent matting. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. Frequent bathing will harm the coat and make it more difficult to groom. Their ears must be kept clean. They are generally healthy, but may have a tendency to develop PRA, hip dysplasia, and cataracts.

It needs a firm, consequent training, made by a person with a lot of patience, without a too harsh demeanour, or else it will not get to the wanted result. Without a proper training, it it an aggressive or a too lonely dog.

It needs a weekly brushing to keep the fur pleasing and healthy. The hair grown in excess from ears, betweent the pads of the feet must be removed.

The Briard's coat can become matted without regular attention. The undercoat sheds and must be brushed out. Needs about two hours per week of grooming. May become restless unless sufficiently exercised. Can display nippy herding behavior. Requires regular