Briards, also known as Berger de Brie, French Shepherd, are handsome, large dogs with their striking, long, flowing coats. They were originally bred as working dogs to herd and guard flocks of sheep in France, where they were highly prized for their alert, friendly and loyal nature. They are known to be extremely bold, but rarely would a Briard display any type of aggressive behaviour unless they felt threatened in some way.
Read our Briard Buying Advice page for information on this dog breed.
Briards are not inherently aggressive but are protective dogs with strong guarding instincts. They are generally outgoing, affectionate, and eager to please, yet they can show dominance if not properly trained. Proper socialisation and consistent training are essential to prevent any aggressive behaviour, and responsible breeders selectively avoid aggressive traits, distinguishing protectiveness from true aggression.