A shaggy French herder with a heart wrapped in fur.
Origin
France
Height
22–27 in (56–69 cm)
Weight
55–100 lb (25–45 kg)
Lifespan
12 years
Coat
Long, coarse, wavy double coat
Energy
High
Overview
The Briard is an ancient French herding breed hidden beneath a long, flowing coat, complete with a signature beard and eyebrows. Powerful and agile, it was bred to herd and guard flocks, and it still carries a strong protective streak.
Often called a “heart wrapped in fur,” the Briard is deeply loyal, affectionate, and sensitive to its family. It is intelligent and independent, forming intense bonds and needing early socialization to temper its guarding instincts.
History
Dating back centuries in France, the Briard herded and defended sheep and served as a wartime messenger and sentry dog. Its combination of herding skill, guarding instinct, and devotion made it a fixture of French rural life.
Where it comes from
France
Highlighted in the Briard's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Briard is devoted and confident, watchful with strangers yet gentle with its family. It is smart and strong-willed, needing consistent, positive training and plenty of activity to remain balanced and well-mannered.
Health to watch
Joint malformation occurs in the breed; screening and lean weight help protect the hips over time.
An inherited retinal disorder affects some Briards; a DNA test identifies carriers and affected dogs.
The deep chest raises the risk of gastric torsion; avoid heavy activity right around meals.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
The long coarse coat mats easily and needs thorough brushing several times a week.
This active herder needs vigorous daily activity and mental work to stay content.
Early, positive exposure keeps the breed's protective instincts measured and reliable.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.