Briard

The Briard is famous for its ability to guard a herd of livestock as well as it guards its family. Several famous leaders, such as Napoleon, Thomas Jefferson, Charlemagne, and Lafayette, owned this type of dog. Briards are also excellent war dogs because of their bravery and obedience. These dogs have also been featured in several television shows and motion pictures, such as Get Smart (as "Fang,"� aka Agent K-13), Married With Children (as "Buck"�), Dharma and Greg (as "Stinky"�), and The Addams Family (as "Them"�). History Briards originated in France during the Middle Ages and have remained popular since. Evidence of the Briar's use can be found in old, 8th century tapestries. They've also been mentioned in records dating to the 12th century. Around the time of origin, this breed was used primarily as a livestock guardian, protecting sheep and other animals from attacks by wolves. However, during the French Revolution, they began to work as war dogs. They could carry messages, find wounded soldiers on the battlefield, and act as sentries to alert soldiers of incoming enemies. After the war, the dog was then used as a sheepherder, a much more peaceful charge than any of its other jobs. However, this peace wasn't to last. They were worked almost to extinction in the First World War, though the breed managed to survive. In present times, the breed has been put to use as a police dog and a search and rescue assistant. Though its history in France and other parts of Europe is well documented, its appearance in the Americas is not. Both Thomas Jefferson and Lafayette are credited with bringing these dogs to the New World. Appearance Briards are very large dogs. Males typically measure between 23 and 27 inches tall at the withers; females typically measure between 22 and 25.5 inches tall at the withers. They have a square build, with the torso (from shoulder to hips) measuring about the same as the height. This breed is a very muscular, powerful one. A Briard's head is in proportion it his body and can be very large. He usually has a friendly, questioning, and confident expression. The eyes are large and black, while the ears lifted slightly. Briards have a double coat, with a fine undercoat and a coarse, dry outer coat. The outer coat is slightly wavy and shiny, and it can be over six inches long. Solid coat colors in any shade but white are normal, as are combinations of two colors. Briards are most often black, tawny, or gray. Temperament Briards are independent thinkers and can be strong-willed, though if they are disciplined at an early age, they can become great family pets. They are often aware of and sensitive to their family's feelings. Briards are also described as spirited, wise, fearless, faithful, and gentle. When trained, they can be very obedient, and they will learn quickly because of their intelligence. They are natural guard dogs because they have protective instincts. They can also be very affectionate and often want to please their masters. A Briard is usually reserved around strangers, but never aggressive or shy. Health Issues The average lifespan of a Briard is between 10 and 12 years. Briards can suffer from cancer (even at a young age), hip dysplasia, bloat, Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (a condition in which a dog's sight diminishes in fading light), and hypothyroidism. Elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, allergies, and cataracts are other possible diseases. However, this breed is generally healthy. Pet Care Briards are large dogs that need a lot of exercise. When they are kept active and busy, they are very well behaved. Regular walks and scheduled playtimes are a good idea. This breed requires daily grooming or else its coat will become matted, which ultimately causes skin problems. Also, these dogs should be trained and socialized from a young age to ensure they develop into friendly dogs. What Owners Have to Say Most owners acknowledge that you have to have some patience when raising a young Briard, however they love this breed for its sensitivity and affection. They also love it for its versatility because it can be trained to perform a variety of tasks. Is this the right dog for you? If you're looking for a large and lovable dog, the Briard may be for you. These dogs are agile despite their size, so they are very fun to play with. They also love the affection of their family members, so they will be very loving towards you most of the time. As athletic dogs, they enjoy constant activity, which is great for an adventurous owner. Briards also make great watchdogs, so if you're looking for a little security in your home, they are a great choice for a dog. However, like all dogs, there are some downsides to this breed. All owners should be prepared to handle the bad with the good. Briards can be very rowdy, especially when young, because they are so active and have so much energy. If that energy isn't expended through activity, they can be destructive in the home. Briards are known to destroy furniture and belongings if they are looking for an outlet for their energy, though this is typical of most breeds. Because of their shaggy coat, grooming needs are demanding. They can drag dirt into the house, drip water onto the carpet, and develop an odor when things get trapped in the coat. Also, when they shed, it can make a mess of the house. As for obedience, owners need to be firm. If this dog thinks he can take advantage of a situation, he will unless the owner can give appropriate discipline. They can be aggressive towards other animals or people if not socialized at an early age, though they are normally calm if they are socialized. Owners should be aware of all of this. The Briard makes an excellent pet, but it takes time and effort to shape a puppy into the perfect adult. Also, waiting lists for these dogs are long. If you wish to purchase a puppy immediately, this may not be the right choice. Owners must be patient when waiting for their dog and after they obtain their Briard.

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