The Briard is a very unique dog breed and one that most people come to love easily. After all, many of its characteristics are fun to bring into the home. Yet, there are some interesting facts and tidbits that may make this breed a bit more unique than you think. If you own one, or if you plan to own one, take a few minutes to learn about these differences to find out where your dog is really coming from and what makes him or her tick.
Did you know that the Briard is a very old breed? While most other dog breeds have been established only in recent decades, while older breeds have died out, the Briard has stuck around. It is an old world breed that was used by the French as a working dog. They depended on this breed for their food in many cases. What's more, people that owned them were thought of as high society. They were in demand and often were so well respected that they would commonly be found with their owners. This is unique in dogs of that day. The Briard deserved this pampering for a reason.
In fact, many of today's historical elements from France's history will feature the Briard in them. A good example of this is the French tapestries that were found dating well back to the 8th century. These tapestries, very important to their families, often have symbols, references or actually depictions of the Briard on them. To these families, the Briard dog that they owned was so important that it deserved a place of honor on their family's walls. Some of these tapestries are still found in old French castles. They serve as a very important reminder of the power these dogs had during that time.
The Briard is also important during this time period for its necessary part is life during this time. Briards are known to be defenders of their property and their owner. Long ago, it was important to have such protectors to help against wolves and poachers. Yet, over time, this trait in the Briards faded and they became much more peaceful animals. Today, they are more likely to herd sheep than they are to attract the wolf.
How did this breed of dog get to the United States? Did you know that Thomas Jefferson is credited with doing just that? Marquis de Lafayette is also considered someone that may have first introduced the breed to the Americas. In fact, Thomas Jefferson first became interested in the breed while still in France as a minister. He purchased his first one, a pregnant female and named her Buzzy, then later started his own breeding program. Briards are treasured animals and have been for many years. Today, they are well loved pets yet their true passion lies in these simple facts of where they once came from.
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