The Briard traces its ancestry back to the days of Charlemagne. Known for centuries as a herding dog, it probably also fits into the category of "working dogs" as described in the American Kennel Club, for it also performs well as a guard dog and a selfless protector. In French folklore there are legends which tell of the dog's heroism and courageous acts of protection in the face of danger. The Briard was also used extensively during both World Wars as a messenger dog.