Categorized as a pointing dog by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, the Braque Francais is admired for its power and elegance. Although it is a working dog, it is a great companion dog because of its many qualities.
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| Picture Credit: American Kennel Club |
Characteristics of the Braque Francais
Powerful and noble at the same time, the Braque Francais is recognized by its impressive physique. This breed comes in two types: the Braque Français Pyrenees type and the Braque Français Gascogne type. Their difference is mainly based on their size.
The Braque Pyrénéen is smaller and measures between 47 and 58 cm at the withers for a weight of 17 to 25 kg. The Braque de Gascogne is between 58 and 68 cm and weighs on average between 24 and 35 kg. This dog is distinguished by its look of great lord. Its head is long and tall, without heaviness. With a braccoid appearance, the beast has a broad muzzle at the tips and base, a pronounced stop, a large brown nose and open nostrils that help it track better. The ears are large and long and come down to the eye line. The Braque Francais has a short coat. The white or brown coat may be speckled.
History of the Braque Francais breed
The Braque Francais is a very old breed. Gaston III of Foix-Béarn known as Fébus mentions it as early as the XIVth century when he speaks of the ancestor of the breed we know today. According to history, the French Pointer comes from the Eastern Pyrenees as well as from the southwest of France. It was highly sought after for its talents as a pointing dog. It is said that this breed is the result of a cross between the Italian Braque and the Spanish Braque. It would have been neglected during a long period with the profit of German or English pointing dogs before being reborn of its ashes thanks to the work of certain impassioned.
Necessary living conditions and behavior of the Braque Francais
With its endurance and speed, the Braque Francais has won over breeders looking for a hunting dog that is good at retrieving game. Even if he is an excellent working dog, he can also become the perfect companion at home. This dog has many qualities: he is obedient, gentle, intelligent and loyal to his owners. If he is to live in the city, he will have to be accustomed to it from a very young age. Moreover, the French Braque must do a lot of physical exercise because of its origins as a hunting dog. Only sporty masters who are fond of wide open spaces will be able to adapt to this need.
Diet and main health problems of the Braque Francais
The Braque Francais is a very robust breed. Luckily, there are no genetic defects associated with the breed. However, as with all large dogs, the risks of stomach dilatation are not to be ruled out. For his health, he must eat premium kibbles or a home-made food made of vegetables, rice and meat. Only one meal a day is recommended for this dog.
