Briard, herding dog, bred in France since at least the 12th century. The briard, named for the Brie region of France, is used for herding sheep. Because it has a keen sense of hearing, the breed is also popular as a watchdog. The briard is strong, with a large head; a square, black nose; bushy eyebrows; and a well-feathered tail that is carried low. The coat, usually black, gray, or tawny in color, is long, coarse, and slightly wavy. Adult males are about 58 to 69 cm (about 23 to 27 in) high at the shoulder; females are a little smaller.
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