Briard
Is a Briard Right For You?
Answer these quick questions to find out:
Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?
Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?
Will the dog need to stay alone at home for long hours?
Do you live in a hot climate?
Are you okay with a dog that sheds heavily?
Breed Characteristics
How much exercise does Briard need?
How much grooming does Briard need?
Is Briard easy to train?
How intelligent is Briard?
Does Briard bark a lot?
Is Briard stubborn or independent?
How much playtime does a Briard need daily?
Can Briard stay indoors with limited walks?
Is Briard protective or territorial?
Is Briard affectionate with family?
Health Wellness
Is Briard a hypoallergenic breed?
The Briard breed is not considered hypoallergenic, as they do produce dander despite their low-shedding coat. While they shed minimally and are less provoking than some other breeds, they are not in the same hypoallergenic class as Poodles or Portuguese Water Dogs. It is important to note that no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, but some breeds are less likely to trigger allergies. Briards are often considered among these less allergenic breeds.
Is Briard prone to allergies?
Briards are not considered hypoallergenic due to their production of dander, a common allergen. They may develop food allergies, which can manifest as itchy skin, recurrent ear infections, and digestive issues. While they do shed, it is not as excessive as breeds like Labradors or German Shepherds. Briards are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of around 12 years, but they are prone to certain health conditions, including skin allergies that can lead to secondary infections. Overall, Briards are not immune to allergies, and proper care and monitoring are essential to manage any potential allergic reactions they may experience.
What are common health issues in Briard?
Key points from the various sources include common health issues in Briards such as hip dysplasia, cancer, congenital stationary night blindness, cataracts, corneal dystrophy, hypothyroidism, immune diseases, bloat, eye conditions, obesity, and heart problems. Hip dysplasia is a major concern in the breed, along with eye issues like night blindness and cataracts. Additionally, bloat and hypothyroidism are highlighted as significant health problems to watch for in Briards. Overall, responsible breeders screen for these conditions, and it is essential for Briard owners to be aware of these potential health issues and monitor their pets closely for any signs or symptoms.
How often should a Briard visit the vet?
A Briard should visit the vet at least once a year for annual check-ups and vaccinations. Puppies and older dogs may require more frequent visits, with puppies typically needing to see the vet every three to four weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. Once a Briard reaches adulthood, annual vet visits are recommended to ensure their health and well-being. Regular veterinary visits are essential for maintaining the Briard's health, with veterinarians also providing guidance on flea and tick control, nutrition, and overall care.
What is the average vet bill for a Briard?
The average annual cost for routine veterinary care for a Briard ranges between $200 and $500, with a typical vet visit costing between $50 and $250. Future vet bills for a Briard can amount to $1,000-$3,000 per year. Initial consultations for medical conditions may fall between $195 and $250. The Briard breed is generally healthy, but may be susceptible to hip issues due to their large size and deep chest. Emergency veterinary visits could cost up to $15,000 depending on the type of treatment needed. Overall, pet parents of Briards can expect to spend between $1,000 and $3,000 annually on veterinary care.
Care Maintenance
How much does it cost to raise a Briard annually?
Based on the information provided, the annual cost of raising a Briard can range from $2,260 to $5,750, excluding the initial acquisition cost. The average price for a Briard puppy is around $2,150, with first-year expenses estimated at approximately $4,775. Additional costs may include supplies, food, preventative care, treats, toys, grooming, emergency vet fees, and accessories. Annual veterinary bills for a Briard typically range from $1,000 to $3,000. Overall, the cost of caring for a Briard can be significant, with expenses such as grooming and healthcare contributing to the total cost of ownership.
Does Briard drool a lot?
The Briard breed is not known to drool excessively, with a low drooling tendency compared to other breeds. They are described as faithful, loving, and independent dogs that shed moderately and require daily grooming. Briards are gentle, spirited, intelligent, athletic, and sensitive, with a muscular body housing a gentle soul. Overall, the consensus among various sources is that Briards are not heavy droolers and are considered a cleaner choice compared to some other large breeds in terms of drooling.
How much grooming does Briard need?
The Briard breed requires regular grooming, with recommendations to brush several times a week using a good-quality pin brush and undercoat rake to eliminate dead hair and lessen shedding. Grooming tools such as a pin brush, soft slicker, and greyhound comb are essential. Depending on coat quality and lifestyle, bathing may be needed about once a week using high-quality products. Pet Briards may need up to 2-3 hours of grooming per week, including brushing and combing with a large metal comb. The breed's shaggy coat sheds little and doesn't hold dirt or water, but grooming for a couple of hours a week is still necessary. Overall, pet parents should expect to spend at least two hours every week grooming their Briard, with variations based on coat quality and age of the dog.
Does Briard shed a lot?
The Briard breed is known for its long, coarse hair that has a gentle wave. While they do shed, it is not excessive like some other breeds such as Labradors or German Shepherds. Briards require regular grooming, including brushing multiple times a week to keep their coat shiny and healthy. The shedding may be more noticeable during seasonal changes, such as in the spring or fall. Using an undercoat rake can help eliminate dead hair and lessen shedding. Overall, with proper grooming and care, Briards are considered to be moderate shedders and do not typically have excessive shedding despite their thick coat.
How often should you bathe a Briard?
Briards, known for their fluffy coats, should be bathed about every 6 weeks to remove debris and maintain cleanliness. However, bathing frequency can vary depending on coat quality and lifestyle, with some sources suggesting once a week for high-quality coats. It is important to use high-quality shampoo, conditioner, and brushing spray when bathing a Briard. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent knotting, with a minimum of 3 times a week brushing and a bath every 15 days as a maintenance routine. While some sources caution against excessive bathing to avoid stripping the skin of healthy oils, others mention that dogs with specific skin issues may require more frequent baths, up to once a week. Overall, a general rule of thumb is to bathe a Briard every 4 to 6 weeks for most indoor dogs to maintain skin health without overstripping natural oils.
Does Briard bark a lot?
The Briard breed is not known to bark excessively, with most individuals being moderate barkers who will vocalize to alert their families to strangers or unusual activities. They have strong guarding instincts and may bark in response to perceived threats, but they are not typically problem barkers. Briards are not heavy droolers and do not shed much, requiring regular grooming to maintain their long, coarse hair. While males may have a powerful bark, overall, Briards are not considered to be excessive barkers and can be trained to minimize any unwanted barking behavior.
How much exercise does Briard need?
Briards are active breeds that require at least 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need a job to do or regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and disruptive behaviors. It is recommended to provide opportunities for running, play, and training to prevent destructive habits. Briards should have access to a large, securely fenced area where they can run freely, and engaging activities like fetching a tennis ball can help them burn excess energy. While daily walks and play sessions are important, mental stimulation through obedience training is also beneficial for Briards. Overall, Briards need a balanced energy level and regular exercise to maintain their well-being, with experts suggesting around 30–60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily.
How much food does a Briard eat per day?
Adult Briard dogs should typically be fed two meals a day, with portion sizes varying based on their age, weight, and activity level. It is recommended to feed them high-quality dog food, with an average daily amount ranging from 3 to 4 cups, divided into two meals. It is important to adjust the feeding amounts according to the individual dog's needs and to maintain a proper weight to prevent overfeeding. For puppies younger than 4 months old, it is suggested to feed them three to five times a day and allow them to eat as much as they want. Additionally, it is advised to keep the dog's diet consistent, avoid giving them human food, and ensure their beard is cleaned and dried regularly due to its tendency to soak up food and water.
How much does it cost to groom a Briard monthly?
Professional grooming costs for a Briard can range from $60 to $100 per session, with sessions typically needed every 6 to 8 weeks, totaling around $480 to $800 annually. Prices may vary based on factors such as size, coat condition, and specific services required. The Briard's shaggy coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, with up to 2 to 3 hours of grooming per week recommended. Monthly grooming costs for a Briard are estimated to be between $52.50 and $67.50. Additional charges may apply based on the size, condition of the coat, and temperament of the dog. It is advisable to provide a 50% deposit for grooming services upon reservation confirmation, and grooming appointments should be scheduled with 24 hours notice for cancellations.
How much playtime does a Briard need daily?
Briards are active breeds that require at least 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They have a balanced energy level and need regular physical activity, such as brisk walks and play sessions, to prevent boredom and disruptive behaviors. In addition to exercise, Briards also benefit from mental stimulation to keep them engaged. Grooming is another important aspect of caring for a Briard, with pet parents advised to spend at least two hours per week on grooming tasks. Due to their high energy levels, Briards may need more than just a daily walk and can thrive with a job or additional activities to keep them occupied.
Temperament
Is Briard affectionate with family?
The Briard breed is known for its strong bonds and affection towards its family members. They are described as devoted, loving, and excellent family dogs, particularly good with children. Briards have a history of being affectionate and loyal companions, with a sense of duty towards their family. They are family-oriented dogs that thrive on companionship and are often referred to as "nanny dogs" for their protective nature towards their loved ones. It is emphasized that Briards require being active members of the family to prevent behavioral issues, as they may become nervous or aggressive if left alone in a backyard. Overall, the Briard is an affectionate and loyal family dog with a quick-learning and hardworking nature.
Is Briard good with other dogs?
The Briard breed can generally live with other dogs with early socialization, but they may try to assert dominance. They are recommended to be paired with dogs of the opposite sex to reduce conflict. Briards are likely to chase small animals and may not be suitable for homes with small pets. They are affectionate with their families, good with young children, and can be good watchdogs. Briards are highly intelligent, playful, energetic, and loyal. However, they can be protective and may exhibit wary behavior towards strangers and aggression towards other dogs if not properly socialized and trained. Overall, Briards are people-oriented, eager to please, and enjoy human contact, often considering themselves lap dogs regardless of size.
Is Briard prone to separation anxiety?
Key points extracted from the sources include: - Briards are people-loving dogs that prefer to be near their family. - Some Briards may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods without enough exercise. - Crate training may be necessary for Briards prone to separation anxiety. - Breed variations can influence the likelihood of separation anxiety in dogs. - Separation anxiety can affect around 14 percent of dogs and is triggered by separation from their guardians. - Briards, being companion dogs, can form intense bonds with their owners and may suffer from separation anxiety when apart. Overall, it can be concluded that Briards, as people-loving and intelligent dogs, are prone to separation anxiety if not provided with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Crate training may be helpful for managing this issue in some individuals. The breed's strong bond with their owners and their history as companion dogs contribute to their tendency to experience separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods.
Is Briard aggressive?
Key points extracted from the sources include: - Briards can become nervous, shy, or aggressive if left alone or not properly trained and socialized. - They may be wary of strangers and aggressive towards other dogs if not socialized. - Briards have a protective nature that can lead to aggression if not properly managed. - The breed is known for independence, loyalty, and affection. - Proper Briard temperament is described as outgoing, sweet, and willing to please with strong guarding instincts. Repeated ideas include the importance of proper training and socialization to prevent aggression, the protective nature of Briards, and their outgoing and sweet temperament when properly raised. In summary, Briards are people-oriented dogs that can exhibit aggression if not given proper attention, training, and socialization. They have a protective nature that may lead to wariness towards strangers and aggression towards other dogs if not managed correctly. However, with the right care, Briards are loyal, affectionate, and outgoing pets with strong guarding instincts.
Is Briard good with children?
The Briard breed is generally good with children, especially older kids, and can live with toddlers and babies if properly socialized. They are described as loving and protective towards all family members, with a strong sense of duty towards them. While most Briards do well with children, some may be too high energy for young kids. It is important to teach children not to climb or ride on the dog to prevent injury or potential aggression. Briards are known to be patient, gentle, and playful with children, matching their youthful energy well. Their herding instincts may occasionally be triggered during play, but overall they are considered family-oriented and are often referred to as "nanny dogs" in France for their watchful and caring nature towards their family, especially the young ones.
Is Briard stubborn or independent?
The Briard breed is known for being intelligent, independent, and stubborn. They require consistent training with positive rewards due to their strong independent streak. This independence can sometimes manifest as stubbornness, making them a challenge for some owners. Briards are described as active, powerful, and intelligent dogs that are eager to work with stock. They are loyal and loving towards their owners but may be wary of strangers due to their watchful and independent nature. Overall, Briards are well-balanced dogs that are not easily swayed by forceful measures and require early socialization to thrive.
Is Briard protective or territorial?
The Briard breed is known for being protective and territorial, especially when it comes to their family and territory. Proper socialization is crucial to prevent aggression or excessive suspiciousness in their protective nature. Briards are confident, faithful, and intelligent dogs with a strong sense of what belongs to their territory. They have a history of guarding livestock and exhibit a protective instinct that extends to their family. While they are loyal family pets, they are also part of the Herding Group and may display territorial behavior. It is recommended to inquire about the dog's genealogy from the breeder to understand their tendencies towards small animals. Overall, Briards are known for their protective and faithful nature, making them excellent companions for families.
Basic Info
What are the breed characteristics of Briard?
The Briard is a large herding breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protectiveness. They are affectionate with family members, good with young children and other dogs, and have a gentle personality. Briards are brave, loyal, and intelligent, thriving on participating in family activities. They are devoted and faithful family members, serving as loyal and brave guardians. Briards are highly energetic and playful, always ready to engage in play. With a sturdy body, wavy fur, and shaggy facial hair, Briards are outgoing dogs that have a sense of humor. They are relatively easygoing around the house but prefer to wait at the door for their owners rather than use a doggie door. Briards are trainable and eager to please, although they can be willful at times.
What is the average litter size of Briard?
The average litter size of Briard dogs typically ranges from 6 to 10 puppies, with some instances of larger litters up to 17 puppies. Briards are large breed dogs, with males reaching heights of 23-27 inches and weighing between 55-100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 22-25 inches in height. The Briard's coat is coarse and strong, coming in colors such as black, grey, or tawny. These dogs have a life expectancy of around 10-12 years and require regular grooming.
What does a Briard look like?
The Briard is a large, shaggy herding breed originating from France, known for its distinctive long coat that can be gray, tawny, or black. They have a sturdy and muscular build, with either floppy or pointed ears and a shaggy facial hairdo. The breed is described as affectionate, loyal, and spirited, often likened to a "heart wrapped in fur." Briards are quick learners, hardworking, and athletic, with a history of herding livestock in hilly terrains. They have a double coat, with a harsh outer layer and a soft, dense undercoat. Briards are playful, goofy, patient with children (when taught to respect the dog), and may exhibit some guard dog instincts.
What is the typical lifespan of Briard?
The typical lifespan of a Briard ranges from 10 to 15 years, with an average of around 12 years. While some individuals may live beyond 15 years, most Briards live a healthy life up to 12 years. This breed is generally healthy, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Briards are a large herding dog originating from France, with males typically standing 23-27 inches tall and weighing 55-100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. Proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a balanced diet can help Briards live a long and fulfilling life.
What is the origin of the Briard?
The Briard is an ancient French breed originating in the Brie historic region of north-central France, where it was traditionally used for herding sheep. The breed is also known as the Chien Berger de Brie and has been depicted in artwork dating back to the eighth century. Briards were developed as versatile dogs capable of herding sheep with agility while also providing protection. They were used to defend against wolves and poachers, serving as an invisible fence for shepherds. The exact origin of the Briard is somewhat obscure, but it is clear that they emerged from the varied farm dogs of France.
What is the average size of Briard?
The average size of a Briard typically ranges from 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder and 55 to 100 pounds in weight. Male Briards generally stand between 23 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 70 to 100 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, measuring 22 to 25.5 inches in height and weighing between 50 to 80 pounds. The breed's height and weight can vary within these ranges, with some males reaching up to 100 pounds. The Briard is considered a large-sized dog with a lifespan of around 10 to 12 years.
Living Conditions
Is Briard good for seniors or low-activity homes?
Key points about Briards for seniors or low-activity homes include their need for regular, vigorous exercise and a job to do, as they are bred for herding and protection. They are intelligent, loyal, and easy to train, with a natural urge to keep close to their pack. Briards are relatively healthy with a lifespan of around 12 years but may be prone to certain health conditions. While they can be a good choice for families with older kids and can tolerate being alone, they prefer waiting for their owners rather than using a doggie door. Overall, Briards are fast-learners, excel in various canine roles and sports, and require daily exercise and mental stimulation, making them better suited for active households rather than low-activity homes.
Is Briard suitable for city living?
Key points extracted from the sources include: - Briards are loyal, affectionate, and need clear leadership and socialization for a balanced urban lifestyle. - They can live in apartments and cities if provided with sufficient exercise and activity. - Briards are smart, easy, and quiet house dogs with a keen sense of humor. - They can adapt to city or country living as long as they are with their family. - Daily exercise is essential for Briards as they are natural herders. Repeated ideas include the need for exercise, adaptability to city living with proper care, and the importance of being with their family for a balanced lifestyle. Overall, Briards can thrive in city environments if given the necessary exercise and attention. They are loyal, affectionate, and intelligent dogs that require clear leadership and socialization. While they can adapt to apartment living, having a fenced yard for them to run in is beneficial. Briards are known for their easygoing nature and sense of humor, making them great companions for families in both urban and rural settings.
Can Briard live in hot weather?
The Briard breed can live in warm climates, but extreme heat can be challenging for them. It is recommended to limit their time outside in hot temperatures and to provide adequate shade and water. Regular grooming is important, especially in hot and humid weather, to prevent skin and ear infections. Briards have a high exercise need and enjoy activities like walks, runs, and swims, but it is advised to avoid strenuous exercise during extremely hot weather to prevent heat-related issues. Overall, while Briards can tolerate warm weather, precautions should be taken to ensure their well-being and comfort in hot conditions.
Is Briard apartment friendly?
Key points from the sources indicate that Briards can adapt to apartment living if provided with regular exercise and outdoor activities. They are not suited for kennel living and thrive best when they are part of the family. Briards are loyal, intelligent, and sociable dogs that enjoy being involved in various activities with their owners. While they can adjust to apartment life, they have high exercise needs and require outdoor space for daily romps to prevent restlessness and potential destructive behavior. Overall, Briards are versatile and adaptable dogs that can make great companions in various living situations with proper care and attention to their exercise needs.
Can Briard live in cold weather?
The Briard breed is well-suited for cold weather due to their shaggy double coat and robust build, which provide protection against the cold. They were originally bred to be outdoors all day, indicating their ability to withstand colder climates. While they can tolerate the cold, it is recommended to protect their paws in extreme conditions. Briards are known to enjoy colder climates and snow, making them great farm dogs with a good balance of outdoor activity and indoor relaxation. Overall, Briards are considered to be a breed that can handle cold weather effectively.
Can Briard be left alone during the day?
The Briard breed generally prefers to be near their family and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Adequate exercise is important to prevent destructive behavior in Briards. Crate training may be necessary for this breed. While some Briards can handle being left alone for a few hours during the day, experts recommend not leaving them alone for more than 4-6 hours. Some individuals may adapt to being alone for up to 8-9 hours if they have enough space to move around comfortably. It is emphasized that Briards are not meant to live separately from their humans and may become distressed if left alone for too long.
Can Briard live in small spaces?
Key points from the sources include: - Briards can adapt to apartment living but require ample exercise and a yard is preferred due to their high energy levels. - They are prone to becoming destructive when bored, emphasizing the need for mental and physical stimulation. - Briards are aware of their large bodies and tails, making them suitable for small living spaces. - Daily exercise is essential for Briards, and access to open spaces or a safe area to run and play is recommended for their well-being. - They have a strong desire to be near their owners and prefer living indoors with them. - Briards need space for grooming and drying off, given their large size and long coat. Overall, the consensus is that while Briards can live in small spaces such as apartments, they thrive best in homes with access to a yard or open spaces for exercise. Daily physical activity is crucial to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Briards are affectionate dogs that prefer to be indoors with their owners, but they also enjoy spending time outdoors. Adequate space for grooming and drying off is necessary due to their large size and coat.
Training Intelligence
Is Briard easy to train?
The Briard breed is known for being intelligent and quick learners, making basic obedience training relatively easy. However, their independent streak and tendency to assert dominance can sometimes make training challenging. Briards were bred to make executive decisions without human guidance, which can result in them being difficult to train at times. Despite this, they are highly trainable due to their intelligence and strong work ethic. Proper socialization and stimulating training are important for Briards to thrive. Overall, while Briards are intelligent and eager to please, their independent nature and potential stubbornness may require consistent and patient training to achieve desired results.
What kind of activities are good for Briard?
Key points for activities good for Briards include agility trials, positive reinforcement training, advanced tricks or obedience training, engaging in dog sports like agility or herding trials, mental stimulation through activities such as obedience training, and physical exercise like jogging, hiking, and cart pulling. Consistency, patience, and a balanced routine are emphasized for Briards, who excel in various canine roles and sports. It is noted that Briards learn quickly, have excellent memory, and thrive when included in family activities. The importance of mental stimulation, physical exercise, and consistent care is highlighted for the well-being of Briards.
How intelligent is Briard?
The Briard breed is widely recognized as highly intelligent, trainable, and quick to learn. They possess traits common to herding dogs, such as protectiveness towards their family and a strong independent streak. Briards require consistent, positive reinforcement training methods and early socialization to prevent destructive behavior and ensure they develop into well-mannered and confident adults. While they are described as intelligent and enthusiastic when motivated, their independence and strong will can make them challenging to train. Some Briards may exhibit serious traits while others are more playful and goofy. Overall, Briards are known for their intelligence, athleticism, protectiveness, and tendency to think for themselves, which can sometimes pose challenges in training.
What are common training challenges with Briard?
Key points about common training challenges with Briards include their independent and intelligent nature, which can make them stubborn and resistant to forceful training methods. They respond well to reward-based training and require consistent positive reinforcement. Briards need mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. Without proper training and socialization, they may develop separation anxiety and exhibit undesirable traits. It is important to be patient, avoid harsh methods, and provide varied training activities to keep them engaged. Health issues such as hip dysplasia should also be considered. Overall, training a Briard requires patience, consistency, positive reinforcement, mental stimulation, and a gentle approach to address their independent and sometimes stubborn nature effectively.
Breed
Is Briard good with cats?
The Briard breed can be good with cats if raised with them from an early age. They have herding instincts but can live harmoniously with other dogs and cats if properly socialized. While they may have an independent streak, Briards often get along well with other pets in the household. However, they may have a tendency to chase cats, so early training and socialization are important. It is recommended to adopt the cat first if planning to introduce a Briard into a household with cats. Overall, with proper training and socialization, Briards can coexist peacefully with cats and other pets, but individual temperament and training methods play a significant role in their behavior towards other animals.
Is Briard good for first-time owners?
The Briard breed is described as large, loyal, intelligent, and easy to train. They are known for their work drive, zest for life, and natural urge to stay close to their pack. While some sources caution that novice owners might be overwhelmed by their energy and herding instincts, others suggest that the Briard can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. The breed is characterized as an excellent watchdog and guard dog, with a loving and loyal nature towards their family. However, it is noted that Briards can be aloof around new people. Overall, the Briard is recommended for owners who are dedicated to studying dog training and actively engaging in training classes, as they require proper socialization and training to thrive.
Roles
Can Briard be used as a therapy or service dog?
The Briard breed is known for its versatility and has been utilized in various service and therapy roles, including assisting individuals with disabilities and providing comfort in hospitals and schools. While not specifically trained as service dogs, Briards' intelligence, trainability, and herding instincts make them adaptable to supporting individuals in need. Their double dewclaws contribute to their balance, even in challenging environments. Briards are valued for their loyalty, tactile coat interaction, and keen intelligence, qualities that can make them effective service and therapy dogs. They have been praised for their ability to perform household tasks and their strong bond with their families. Overall, Briards have demonstrated success in service and therapy work, showcasing their potential to excel in these roles alongside other well-known breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Poodles, and Collies.
Can Briard be trained for herding or hunting?
The Briard breed is known for its herding abilities and can excel in various sporting events such as herding, obedience, tracking, agility, and Rally. They possess traits common to herding dogs, including trainability, intelligence, and a protective nature towards their family, especially children. Natural herding instincts may manifest, particularly if they are in proximity to farm animals, and participating in herding trials can be a beneficial outlet for this breed. Briards are versatile dogs that enjoy participating in various activities with their owners and thrive on being around people. While they are not typically hunting dogs, Briards were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep and are skilled herding dogs. They require structured training and mental stimulation to keep them engaged, as they are intelligent and bred to work. Overall, Briards are herding dogs through and through, with a strong instinct for herding and guarding.
Is Briard a good guard dog?
Key points about the Briard breed as a guard dog include their intelligence, respect for authority, need for consistent obedience training to earn respect, suitability for outdoor activities, good watchdog abilities, and strong protective instincts. While some sources mention that Briards can be excellent in protection, they may not always be the best guard dogs, depending on individual temperament and socialization. The breed's history as herders and protectors of sheep contributes to their natural guarding instincts. Socialization is emphasized to prevent potential aggression towards strangers and ensure that their watchdog abilities are appropriately channeled. Overall, Briards are described as good guard dogs with a strong protective eye towards their family, especially children, but proper training and socialization are essential to harness their guarding potential effectively.
Is Briard recognized by major kennel clubs?
The Briard is recognized by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), which officially recognized the breed in 1928, solidifying its status in North America. Other major canine organizations like the FCI and The Royal Kennel Club (UK) have also extended recognition to the Briard, contributing to its global notoriety. The United Kennel Club recognized the Briard in 1948, and the breed was exhibited at the first dog show in France in 1863, gaining official recognition in 1897. The Briard is described as a vigorous, alert, and powerful dog, known for its balance and strength in muscle. Additionally, the breed is recognized for its herding abilities and is characterized as smart, independent, and reliable. The Briard's movements are likened to "quicksilver" in the official breed standard.
Exercise Energy
Can Briard stay indoors with limited walks?
The Briard breed typically requires daily exercise, including walks and opportunities to run and play, to maintain their physical and mental well-being. While they can be calm and relaxed indoors, it is important for their overall health and happiness to have regular outdoor activity. Daily walks are recommended, with a frequency of 3 to 4 times a day for about 15 minutes each, although this can vary based on the individual dog's needs. It is advised to provide a safe place for the Briard to exercise and play, as well as access to a fenced yard for running. Keeping a Briard indoors all day without adequate exercise can lead to health issues, and it is generally recommended that they have a balance of indoor and outdoor activities to thrive.
Ownership Cost
How much does a Briard weigh?
The Briard breed typically weighs between 50 and 100 pounds, with males ranging from 60 to 100 pounds and females from 50 to 80 pounds. Adult male Briards can weigh between 27 to 41 kg, while females usually weigh between 23 to 34 kg. The height of a male Briard ranges from 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller at 22 to 25.5 inches. Some sources mention that most Briards weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, although males can reach up to 100 pounds. Overall, the weight of a Briard can vary depending on the individual dog, but they are generally considered large-sized dogs with an average weight falling within the 50 to 100-pound range.
How much does a Briard puppy cost?
Briard puppies can be adopted for around $300, but buying from breeders can range from $1,000 to $3,000, with some puppies priced as high as $4,500. Prices can vary based on location, breeder reputation, pedigree, and quality of the puppy. Reputable breeders may charge between $1,200 and $3,000, ensuring health and temperament screening. The average cost for a Briard puppy in the U.S. is approximately $1,500 to $3,000. It is recommended to research breeders thoroughly and inquire about specific pricing factors when considering adding a Briard puppy to your family.
What are the adoption fees for a Briard?
Adopting a Briard can cost around $300, which is significantly lower than purchasing one from a breeder, where prices can range from $1,200 to $2,500. Rescue organizations typically charge adoption fees ranging from $65 to $85, with some fees being waived at times. The cost of adopting a Briard from a rescue can vary between $200 to $500, with fees often subsidized by donations. Overall, adoption fees for Briards can vary based on location, organization, and the dog's age, breed, and size, but generally fall within the mentioned ranges.
Where can you adopt or buy a Briard?
Key points from the sources include the availability of Briards for adoption in California and Texas, the higher cost of purchasing from a breeder compared to adopting from a shelter or rescue (around $300 for adoption fees), the presence of AKC-registered Briards from breeders, and the emphasis on finding appropriate homes for Briards in need rather than selling them. Repeated ideas include the focus on adoption from shelters or rescues, the lower cost of adopting compared to buying from a breeder, and the importance of connecting with current Briard owners or breeders for information and assistance. Overall, individuals interested in acquiring a Briard are encouraged to consider adoption from local shelters or rescues as a cost-effective and compassionate option, while also being mindful of reputable breeders for AKC-registered puppies.
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