Briard vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Briard and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Briard
Loyal, intelligent, and spirited, this breed thrives as both a vigilant guardian and affectionate family companion. Its long, flowing coat and lively personality stand out in any home.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Large
34–41 kg
Long, slightly wavy
10–12 years
27–34 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Briard
Affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, responds well to training
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Enjoys interactive games and family playtime
May struggle with major routine or environment changes
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Briard
Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Briard
Challenging for beginners
Briards require experienced handling and consistent training to thrive
Not ideal
Briards need space and plenty of exercise, making small apartments unsuitable
Excellent companion
Their high energy and stamina make them great for active families
Good with supervision
Briards are protective and gentle but need guidance around small children
Generally compatible
Early socialization helps Briards coexist with other pets peacefully
Prone to separation anxiety
Briards dislike being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Briard
- Loyal and devoted to family
- Strong natural herding instincts
- Highly intelligent and trainable
- Protective without being aggressive
- Good stamina for outdoor activities
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Briard
- Requires extensive daily exercise
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Needs regular, thorough grooming
- Can be reserved with strangers
- May attempt to herd children or pets
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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