Briard

Life span:10 to 12 years

Availability: Easy to get

About Briard:
The Briard is a large purebred known for being aggressive, independent, intelligent, loving, and protective. The most common colors for Briards are black and gray. To keep it healthy, it will need to get exercise regularly. Known to be multi-talented, the Briard participates in a wide variety of activities such as guarding, herding, military work, police work, and search and rescue.

The Briard originated in France and can be dated back to the 8th century. He was known as the Chien Berger De Brie, which is believed to be derived from his place of origin, the region of Brie

A more romantic explanation exists as well — that is, the name is a distortion of Chien d'Aubry. A 14th century legend claims that Aubry de Montdidier, a courtier of King Charles V, built a cathedral in memory of a valiant Briard who saved his son's life.

Regardless of the origin of the name, the Briard can be linked back to the Emperor Charlemagne through his depiction in early tapestries. The Briard has also been linked to Napoleon and was the official breed of the French Army.

It is believed that Thomas Jefferson imported the first Briards to the United States, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1928. Surprisingly, the Briard was not introduced to the United Kingdom until the late 1960s.

Visits to Groomer-High

Drooling-No

Bath-Rare

Tolerance to heat- Basks in it

Tolerance to cold-Loves snow

Exercise Requirement-Lots

Under Coat-Yes

Colour-Black, Grey, White, Black & Tawny, Black & Gray, Tawny

Coat Type-Coarse,hard and dry and lies flat

Hair Length-Flowing

Hair Density-Dense

Briards are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Briards will get any or all of these diseases, but it's important to be aware of them if you're considering this breed. Some of the common health problem are:

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Congenital Stationary Night Blindness

Hypothyroidism

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Von Willebrand's Disease

Cancer

Gastric Torsion

Temperament
He is a dog of heart, with spirit and initiative, wise and fearless with no trace of timidity. Intelligent, easily trained, faithful, gentle, and obedient, the Briard possesses an excellent memory and an ardent desire to please his master. He retains a high degree of his ancestral instinct to guard home and master.

Training & Intelligence
The typical Briard is brave, loyal, and intelligent. Training won't require too much attention and effort, though it won't be easier than other breeds. Expect results to come gradually. This dog will bark and alert its owners when an intruder is present. It exhibits very protective behavior, acts fearless toward any aggressor, and will do what it takes to guard and protect its family.

Breeding
Litter Size- 8 to 10 puppies (approximately)

Complication in Breeding-No

Procreation
Briards are healthy and sturdy breed . Generally a dog takes around 18 months to reach his or her full height and structure. It is advisable to breed your dogs after at least two years of age. If you are a first timer at breeding then taking a vets help.