The Briard /briːɑːrd/ is an ancient breed of large herding dog, originally from France. The Briard's modern-day roles include police, military, and search-and-rescue work, as well as companion dog. The breed characteristics of the Briard are of a medium-sized, rugged, agile dog, having a harsh coat and double dewclaws mounted low on each rear leg, resembling additional toes. Each double dew claw should have bone substance and nail, giving the appearance of a wider rear foot. Throughout history, the Briard has retained an appropriate balance of size and build that is required for both herding and protection of their flocks. With their breed's tendency toward a dominant working temperament, aggression, and high prey drive due to their history as a working guardian-type dog, they also can be very problematic, even dangerous, if used for service or therapy work in the public setting. Some bloodlines have more issues with temperament than others.