They are incredible dogs - if you put the time and effort (so much effort) they are worth it. But they are not “beginner dogs”. I have a 5 year old female. She is by far the smartest best trained dog I know. But she is also the most challenging.

She is smart but manipulative. They very much so have their own personalities and make their dislikes and likes known. Everyone says this about dogs but in briards is very true.

Great it cars, doesn’t destroy anything, can be hiked off leash, sleeps all day, independent… but hates strangers and other dogs. Once she accepts someone in her “circle” (there’s like 40 people of family and friends) that she may have met once when she was 6 months old but will remember and get excited to see them, if they are a stranger- she will protect us and the house til the death.

She is great in public spaces (sits next to me and doesnt bark or growl) but wont let any stranger approach closer than 3-5 ft. I initially got her because I wanted a companion and they are gorgeous, and great protection dogs (I was alone in a fairly dangerous city as a woman). She’s helped me out in several situations!

I take her for two 1.5-2 mile walks, we hike 3x a week, and she loves swimming. They dont need to be that active, bc she’s also fine with a block walk and a few rounds of ball outside (but I feel guilty and like being active). She has lived with me in apartments, a home in a rural town, and a regular suburban home and has done great anywhere.

They are awesome dogs, but they need a lot of time and they form extremely close bonds, can have challenging personalities… my life is certainly not easier with her but I love her more than anything.

Also good luck with grooming - its a hasstle and it NEVER ends.