The Braque Français is a medium-sized dog with a noble and elegant appearance, exhibiting a muscular build and a distinctive ticked coat.

Males

Males

55-88 pounds

40-55 pounds

Short, dense, and somewhat coarse to the touch

Typically brown, brown and white ticked, or brown and white heavily ticked, sometimes with tan markings

Pear-shaped, with a well-defined stop

Dark amber or brown, with an intelligent and gentle expression

Set high and slightly rounded, hanging close to the head

Traditionally docked to about 4-6 inches, but natural tails are also seen (where docking is prohibited)

The Braque Français is known for its gentle, affectionate, and eager-to-please temperament, making it both an excellent hunting companion and a loving family pet.

Forms strong bonds with family members and loves to be included in activities.

Known for their gentle nature, especially with children and other pets.

Highly intelligent and responsive to training.

Responds best to positive reinforcement and gentle handling.

A strong desire to please their owners makes them highly trainable.

Generally good with strangers and other dogs, though early socialization is beneficial.

The Braque Français is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation, and who appreciate a loving and devoted companion.

Relatively low-maintenance grooming.

Sensitive nature requires positive training methods.

The ideal owner for a Braque Français is someone who is active, committed to training and socialization, and looking for a loyal and affectionate companion who will thrive as part of the family. Hunters will find them exceptional partners in the field.

The Braque Français has moderate grooming needs, requires a balanced diet, and thrives in a home where they can be an active part of the family.

Brush weekly with a bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt to remove loose hair and maintain coat health. Bathe only as needed.

Moderate shedding; more frequent brushing may be needed during seasonal changes.

Check ears regularly for signs of infection (redness, odor) and clean as needed with a veterinarian-approved solution.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and cracking.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

Adaptable to various living situations, but access to a securely fenced yard is ideal. They thrive on human interaction and should not be left alone for extended periods.

The Braque Français is relatively easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, but they require substantial daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Braque Français are highly trainable, responding best to positive reinforcement methods such as praise, treats, and play. Their sensitive nature means harsh corrections should be avoided. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for a well-adjusted dog. Consistency and patience are key to success. They excel in various canine sports, including agility, obedience, and hunt tests.

This breed has high energy levels and needs a significant amount of exercise daily. This should include long walks, runs, or hikes, as well as opportunities to run off-leash in a secure area. Mental stimulation is equally important, so incorporate activities like puzzle toys, scent work, and training sessions. Without sufficient exercise, they can become restless and potentially destructive.

Use positive methods; avoid harsh corrections.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Maintain a consistent training routine.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Allow them to run freely in safe, enclosed areas.

If using for hunting, start training early and gradually introduce them to fieldwork.

The Braque Français is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness.

Due to their floppy ears, they can be prone to ear infections.

A condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, irritating the cornea

The Braque Français is an ancient breed, with roots tracing back to the 15th century in southwestern France and the central Pyrenees. They are believed to be descended from old Spanish and Italian pointing breeds, and possibly the now-extinct Southern Hound. Originally used for hunting feathered game, the Braque Français developed into two distinct types: the larger Gascogne (from the province of Gascogne) and the smaller, quicker Pyrenean (from the Pyrenees mountains). The breed was nearly lost after the French Revolution and during the World Wars, but dedicated breeders worked to preserve it. The first breed club was formed in 1883, and the standard was first published in 1888. While the breed has gained some recognition internationally, it remains relatively rare outside of France, particularly in North America. Recognition by major kennel clubs varies, with the UKC recognizing the breed, and the AKC including it in the Foundation Stock Service.

Yes, they are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets, especially with children.

They need a significant amount of daily exercise, including long walks, runs, and opportunities for off-leash play.

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods.

They are moderate shedders. Regular brushing will help manage shedding.

The Gascogne is larger and heavier, while the Pyrenean is smaller and more agile.

Yes, they are relatively rare outside of France, particularly in North America.

They can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation, but a house with a yard is ideal.

Generally, yes, they are sociable and get along well with other dogs, especially when properly socialized from a young age.

The average lifespan is 12-15 years.

Look for reputable breeders through breed clubs or national kennel club listings (e.g., UKC, AKC Foundation Stock Service). Be prepared for a potential waiting list due to the breed's rarity.