Description written by: Mary Lopez

The briard is a very old breed of French herding dog. The Briard sometimes called the "Chien de Berger de Brie" It has been said that Briards were owned by Charlemagne in the 700's. In the 1970's, personal papers of Thomas Jefferson were found to make mention of the Briard and how the dog was highly prized for its abilities with sheep. Jefferson was a close friend of the Marquis de la Fayette who it is thought introduced Jefferson to the breed.  The many remarkable qualities which have helped the Briard to with stand the test of time have been passed down through the centuries. The Briard is intelligent, loyal and obedient, even the companion Briard displays the instinct to herd whatever is at hand, often pushing his owner with his head to direct him.  The Briard is not inclined to wonder away from his property and he may decide that the young children in the family should also remain within these boundaries.

Distinctive in appearance, the Briard has eyebrows and beard, which give the typical expression of the breed and the tail has a small hook on the end called a crochet. He is a dog of handsome form, strong in bone and muscle. Male sizes are from 23 to 27 inches at the withers: bitches are 22 to 25 1/2 inches at the withers. Color all uniform colors are permitted except white.  The colors are black, various shades of gray, and various shades of Tawny.  The Briard is a dog at heart, with spirit and initiative and only require socializing and regular grooming.

Briard Breeders

• Aigner - PA
• Mahadi Briards - TX

• Mon Jovis Briards - CA
• Sagi Briards - PA