Picture a regal creature with a magnificent coat that rivals the beauty of a horse’s mane. A contoured face sculpted to perfection – a fusion of worldliness and innocence – beams back at you from beneath curtains of lustrous hair. If it sounds like a scene from a fairy tale, let me tell you, it’s not. This is a peek into the life of a Briard owner.
Hailing from France, Briards are a breed that blend glamour and ganas – gutsiness, to non-Spanish speakers – like none other. Often cast as the resolute shepherd in pastoral European landscapes or the glamorous Parisian companion, few breeds can match the stunning contrast that Briards present. The phrase ’walker eye-candy meets Napoleonic courage’ perhaps gives their extraordinary charm much needed justice.
Now that you are hooked with the breed’s dualitarian beauty, the question that twitches in your mind is this: Is a Briard a good pet? If you’re considering letting a Briards claim a corner of your couch, I’d urge you to read on.
Briards are silver-screen beauties, but it’s not just their awe-striking appearance that makes them stand out. While their lush coat is a head turner, their intelligence is equally captivating. Ranked in the top 30 for intelligence, Briards are known to pick up new commands easily. Oh, and guess what! They are multitaskers too, with an ability to remember a sequence of commands. Go ahead and add doggie genius to the long list of Briard credentials.
But like any intelligent being, a Briard needs mental stimulation. Bored Briards can be destructive, and trust me, you don’t want a displeased one to vent out their frustration on your cherished couch. Providing them with smart toys and engaging them in activities is key to keeping their hyperactive minds busy.
However, the other side of this shining coin is that Briards are known for their independent thinking, a trait that sometimes makes them a tad bit headstrong. Key to reigning in this stubborn streak is early training. Make sure you follow the golden rule: be firm, consistent, and patient.
We’ve already discussed the Briard’s brain power, but let’s not forget about their brawn. Descendants of noble working dogs, Briards were bred to herd sheep and protect property. They are agile, hardy, and well-built. This means they need their daily dose of exercise. As an owner, you might just need to swap your meditation routine with heart-pounding exercise sessions in the park!
Now onto the characteristic that sets Briards apart – their extraordinary attachment to their family. They are incredibly protective and affectionate towards their human pack. Once you win their heart, they will return your love tenfold. Despite their size, they will do all in their power to be your cuddly lap dog and fierce protector.
However, this over-protective trait makes Briards suspicious of strangers. Early socialisation is the key to well-rounded dogs. Introduce your Briard pup to diverse people and environments from a young age to avoid a shy or aggressive adult.
The cherry on top? Briards are generally healthy dogs. With the correct care, these dogs often live up to their teens. However, like any breed, they are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and eye conditions. Regular check-ups should keep medical issues at bay.
Now, circling back to where we began: Is a Briard a good pet? Briards are not just good pets – they are phenomenal. If you’re someone who values intelligence, loyalty, and bravura in a companion and aren’t scared of a bit of exercise, Briards might just steal your heart. And remember: in systematized training, early socialization, and rigorous health checks lay the secret to raising a happy and healthy Briard.
With a Briard in your life, quiet times will be filled with a soft rumble of a snore, and lively instances will be painted with ecstatic bounds and affectionate kisses. You’ll likely spend countless hours just marvelling at this fluffy masterpiece that fills up your life – and your living room – with joy.
So, are you ready to share your life’s canvas with a Briard? It’s going to be a thrilling experience.
