The dog possessed Beauty Without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, And all the Virtues of Man Without his Vices.
The origin of this excellent French breed is unfortunately unknown. According to some historical records it may be a cross between the beauceron, the long furred griffon and early herders. Others suggest that it originates from ancient guard dogs with/under the influence of the barbet (a French water dog whose origin is also unknown). One thing is for certain, the Briard was a working dog of common people (sheperds and peasants) that became to existence by natural selection of the best dogs suitable for herding and guarding flocks of sheep.