The Briard /briːɑːrd/ is an ancient breed of large herding dog, originally from France. A Briard-like dog appears in the illustrations in illuminated copies of Gaston Febus' Livre de chasse ('Book of the Hunt'), written in the late 14th century. The breeds that just herd are often smaller in size, agile, and swift of foot. Those breeds that just guard are usually larger and heavier. Briards were used in all types of herding situations, having the ability to learn many commands and fulfill the jobs expected of them. They have proven to be a very good breed to have around children of all ages. To domesticated dogs, their family is the flock and all strangers may appear to be predators.