The French Spaniel is a medium-to-large-sized dog with a noble and athletic build, possessing a characteristic wavy coat.

Medium to large, males typically 22-24 inches, females 21-23 inches at the withers.

Medium length, dense, and slightly wavy or flat.

White with brown markings, ranging from light cinnamon to dark liver.

Moderately sized, with a slightly domed skull and a defined stop.

Dark amber, oval-shaped, with a gentle expression.

Set at eye level, long, and feathered.

Long, reaching the hock, carried with a slight curve.

The French Spaniel is known for its gentle, friendly, and sociable nature, making it an excellent companion dog.

Exceptionally friendly with people and other dogs, thriving on companionship.

Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to training.

Known for their gentle demeanor, particularly with children.

Eager to please and responsive to positive reinforcement.

Moderate energy levels; enjoys both playtime and relaxing with family.

The French Spaniel is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample companionship, training, and exercise.

Relatively healthy breed.

The rare genetic disorder, acral mutilation and analgesia, can occur.

The ideal owner for a French Spaniel is someone who can provide a loving and engaging environment, commit to regular grooming and exercise, and appreciate the breed's gentle and sociable nature.

Caring for a French Spaniel involves moderate grooming, a balanced diet, and providing a comfortable living environment.

Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent matting and tangles, especially in the feathered areas. Occasional baths as needed.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor food intake to prevent overfeeding.

Adaptable to various living situations, but access to a securely fenced yard is beneficial.

Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections, particularly due to their long, floppy ears.

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

French Spaniels are relatively easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, requiring moderate daily exercise.

French Spaniels respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended to ensure a well-behaved companion. Consistency and patience are key.

This breed requires daily exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. This can include brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, and engaging in canine sports like agility or hunt tests. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training sessions is also beneficial.

Utilize rewards-based training for best results.

Expose puppies to various sights, sounds, and experiences.

Provide puzzle toys and games to keep their minds engaged.

Maintain a consistent training routine.

Mix up exercise routines to prevent boredom.

The French Spaniel is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

A rare genetic disorder characterized by self-mutilation due to a lack of pain sensation in the extremities.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

Prone to ear infections due to their long, floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris.

The French Spaniel traces its roots back to the bird dogs of 14th-century France. These dogs were highly valued for their pointing and retrieving abilities. The breed was a favorite among French nobility and royalty during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. However, with the rise of English hunting dogs in the 19th century, the French Spaniel's numbers dwindled, almost leading to extinction. Father Fournier, a French priest, is credited with gathering the remaining specimens and revitalizing the breed in the early 20th century. The French Spaniel was officially recognized by various kennel clubs throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, including the UKC in 1996, and the CKC and FCI in 2008.

Yes, French Spaniels are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent companions for children.

French Spaniels require moderate daily exercise, such as brisk walks, jogging, or playtime, along with mental stimulation.

French Spaniels have a medium-length coat that sheds moderately. Regular brushing helps manage shedding.

Yes, French Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.

The average lifespan of a French Spaniel is 10-12 years.

While generally healthy, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, and the rare genetic disorder acral mutilation and analgesia.

French Spaniels are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their owners to something unusual.

French Spaniels can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Yes, the French Spaniel is considered a relatively rare breed, especially outside of France and Canada.

Contact reputable breeders or breed-specific rescue organizations to find a French Spaniel.