Briard Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Briard
The Briard is a large, ancient French herding dog famous for its long, flowing coat, shaggy brows, and the signature double dewclaws on its hind legs. Behind the abundant fringe lies a powerful, agile working dog bred to herd and guard sheep on the plains of France. Intelligent, confident, and fiercely loyal, it is deeply devoted to its family, protective of children and flock alike, and reserved with strangers. Often described as a heart wrapped in fur, it is affectionate yet independent, needing early socialization, consistent training, and real daily exercise. Its magnificent coat demands committed grooming to prevent matting.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
0 active listings
Where this breed shines
- Loyal, protective, and devoted family guardian
- Highly intelligent and capable herder
- Affectionate and gentle with its own children
- Versatile in herding, sport, and service work
Things to consider
- Long coat requires extensive, regular grooming
- Strong-willed and independent; needs experienced handling
- Protective instincts demand early, ongoing socialization
- Needs substantial daily exercise and mental work
History
The Briard, or Berger de Brie, is an old French breed depicted in art and documents going back centuries, traditionally used to herd and guard flocks. It gained fame after serving with the French army in World War I as a sentry, messenger, and search dog. Thomas Jefferson is often credited with helping introduce the breed to America. It is recognized by the FCI, The Kennel Club, and the AKC in the Herding Group.
Temperament
Loyal, confident, and protective, the Briard is deeply bonded to its family and naturally watchful over its home and children. It is intelligent and independent, with a strong memory and a mind of its own, requiring firm, consistent, positive training. Reserved with strangers, it needs thorough socialization to be well-adjusted. Playful and affectionate with loved ones, it can be dominant with other dogs and thrives on close involvement in family life.
Questions to ask a Briard breeder
- Are the parents screened for hips, eyes, and heart conditions?
- Do you test for progressive retinal atrophy and congenital night blindness?
- How are puppies socialized to people and situations?
- What is the temperament of the parents with strangers?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Common in large herders; insist on hip evaluations.
Congenital stationary night blindness. An inherited eye condition in Briards; ask for DNA testing.
Bloat (gastric torsion). Deep-chested build raises risk; learn prevention and warning signs.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Briard litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Briard puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Briard listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Briard breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.