As a veterinarian, I often see the deep bond between Briards and their families. These shaggy, intelligent dogs bring so much joy, but like all breeds, they have specific health considerations that every owner should understand.
Being informed about potential health issues is the best way to ensure your Briard lives a long, happy, and healthy life. Let’s explore some common concerns.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
These are genetic conditions where the hip or elbow joints don’t form properly, leading to arthritis and pain. Responsible breeders screen their dogs, and owners should ask for OFA or PennHIP clearances. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint-supporting supplements can help manage symptoms.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Bloat is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off blood supply. Symptoms include restlessness, unproductive retching, and a distended abdomen. This is an emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention; preventative surgery (gastropexy) is often recommended for deep-chested breeds like Briards.
Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (CSNB)
CSNB is a hereditary eye disorder specific to Briards, causing impaired vision in low light conditions. Affected dogs struggle to see in dim lighting but have normal daytime vision. Genetic testing is available, and responsible breeders should screen their breeding stock to avoid passing on this condition.
Step by Step
Regular Vet Visits
Schedule annual check-ups, even if your Briard seems healthy. Your vet can perform essential screenings and catch potential issues early.
Genetic Screening
If purchasing a puppy, ensure parents have been screened for CSNB, hip and elbow dysplasia. This helps reduce the risk of inheriting these conditions.
Diet and Exercise
Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular, appropriate exercise. Avoid strenuous activities on young, developing joints.
Bloat Awareness
Learn the signs of bloat-restlessness, retching, distended abdomen. Consider preventative gastropexy, especially if your dog is high-risk.
Joint Support
Discuss joint supplements with your veterinarian, especially as your Briard ages. Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine can support joint health.
Quick Checklist
- Ask about parental health clearances.
- Feed two or more small meals daily.
- Monitor for changes in appetite or activity.
- Brush coat regularly to prevent mats.
- Provide mental stimulation daily.
- Know your nearest emergency vet clinic.
Safety note: Always consult your veterinarian immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms or sudden changes in your Briard’s health or behavior.
Sources
What you need to know
The Briard is a large French herding dog whose most notable health concern is congenital stationary night blindness, an inherited eye condition that impairs vision in low light. DNA testing of breeding dogs helps reduce it, so ask about eye screening. The breed is also prone to hip dysplasia and, like other deep-chested dogs, to bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus), making meal management and parent hip scores important.
Briards can develop hypothyroidism and eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, so watch for weight gain, lethargy or fading night vision. The long coat needs regular grooming to prevent mats that hide skin problems, and the ears should be kept clean. Feed smaller meals to lower bloat risk, keep your dog lean for the joints, and seek urgent care for a tight, swollen abdomen or repeated unproductive retching.