Exercise
Plan for at least 60 minutes of daily exercise plus mental work. Breeds with this profile stay more settled when activity includes both movement and mental engagement.
HerdingLarge
France
FranceBriard
Weight
55-100 lb
Height
22-27 in
Lifespan
10-12 yrs
Coat
Wavy Long
A large, long-coated French shepherd known for devotion, versatility, and strong guardian instincts.
Herding group breedOrigin: FranceExercise needs: 4/5
Breed Names
Official, native, and commonly used variants
Berger de Brie
DevotedIntelligentProtectiveConfidentSensitiveLively
Weight
55-100 lb
Height
22-27 in
Lifespan
10-12 yrs
Coat
Wavy Long
At A Glance
Daily living snapshot
A quick read on energy, upkeep, and what day-to-day life with this breed usually feels like.
Energy
High
Barking
Moderate
Drooling
Low
Shedding
Low
Grooming
5/5
First-time owner
No
Overview
The Briard originated in France and was developed for flock tending and farm guarding. A large, long-coated French shepherd known for devotion, versatility, and strong guardian instincts.
In daily life, this breed is often described as devoted, intelligent, protective. It is better in a home with more space and usually does best in active experienced homes that can manage coat work and training.
Temperament & Personality
DevotedIntelligentProtectiveConfidentSensitiveLively
This breed tends to suit homes looking for a devoted, intelligent, protective companion, with daily rhythms shaped by high energy, moderate barking, and low drooling.
Coat type
Wavy
Coat length
Long
Shedding
Low
Colors
Black, Gray, Tawny
Lifestyle Compatibility
Family Friendly4/5
Good with Kids4/5
Good with Dogs3/5
Good with Strangers2/5
Apartment Friendly2/5
Exercise Needs4/5
Grooming Needs5/5
Trainability4/5
Good fit if you want
- A family-friendly companion
- Room for routine exercise
- Confidence handling structure and training
Plan ahead for
- 4/5 exercise needs
- low shedding and coat upkeep
- moderate barking in daily life
Care Guide
Grooming
The long wavy coat has low shedding and grooming demand rated 5/5. Brush regularly and stay current with ear, nail, and skin checks.
Training
This breed is responsive when training is positive and structured. Early socialization and short, consistent sessions usually produce the best results.
Nutrition
Feed a quality diet sized for a large dog and keep body condition lean. Split daily portions into measured meals and adjust intake for activity level.
Behavior & Environment
Energy level
High
Barking level
Moderate
Drooling level
Low
Watchdog ability
5/5
Guard dog ability
4/5
Climate tolerance
Cold weather4/5
Heat tolerance3/5
Health Considerations
Common concerns to discuss with your vet and breeder.
Hip dysplasiaBloatProgressive retinal atrophy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Briard good for apartment living?
The Briard is better in a home with more space. Daily structure and realistic exercise are the deciding factors.
How much exercise does a Briard need?
Most Briard dogs need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise plus mental work. Mental work helps just as much as physical activity for many individuals.
Is the Briard good for first-time owners?
Usually not. This breed is better suited to owners who are comfortable managing stronger instincts or more demanding training needs.
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