Briard
The Briard is described by the AKC as confident, smart, faithful, a member of the Herding Group, originally from France.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
| Height | 23-27 inches (male), 22-25.5 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-100 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Confident / Smart / Faithful [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 172 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Briard requires a job to be happy. Hopefully his job will be one that gives him a lot of exercise, as this is a breed that craves action. Their zest for life makes them great companions for hikers, bicyclers, and joggers. [1]
Grooming
Begin grooming your Briard puppy long before he really needs grooming. Make sure that you make grooming time a happy period he will look forward to in the years when grooming is a necessity and can take a long time. A Briard should be brushed several times a week, completely to the skin, using a good-quality pin brush. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Briard is overall a healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as cancer, hip dysplasia, congenital stationary night blindness, cataracts, corneal dystrophy, retinal folds, hypothyroidism, immune diseases, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and kidney disease. Discuss any questions or concerns with your breeder and veterinarian so you can make educated decisions regarding your dog's health. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (CSNB, LCA) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
| Full professional grooming, per visit | $40–$150 | [6] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Briard in 1928. [1]
- It ranked No. 172 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 130 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Berger de Brie (France).” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Low-maintenance seekers: AKC rates grooming needs 4/5
Common questions
How long do Briards live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12 years.
How big does a Briard get?
AKC breed information lists height 23-27 inches (male), 22-25.5 inches (female) and weight 55-100 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Briard?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Briard, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.