The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive, curly coat and a prominent top-knot of longer, curlier hair on its head.

Medium, typically 19.5-23 inches tall at the shoulder.

Generally 44-60 pounds.

Dense, curly, and slightly coarse, providing insulation and protection.

Primarily brown, often with roan (a mix of brown and white hairs) markings.

Distinctive top-knot of longer, curlier hair.

Naturally long, often carried with a slight curve.

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is known for being a cheerful, affectionate, and eager-to-please companion. They are intelligent and playful, forming strong bonds with their families.

Forms strong bonds with family members and enjoys close interaction.

Possesses a lively and energetic nature, enjoying games and activities.

Highly trainable and quick to learn, responding well to positive reinforcement.

Generally good-natured and patient, making them suitable for families with children (with supervision).

Makes a good watchdog, barking to alert owners to anything unusual.

This breed is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they can be involved in family activities.

Enjoys outdoor activities.

May be vocal if not properly trained.

The ideal owner for a Pont-Audemer Spaniel is someone who is active, dedicated to training and socialization, and looking for a loving and engaging companion. They are a rewarding breed for those who can meet their needs.

Grooming involves regular brushing to prevent matting, and their diet should be appropriate for a medium-sized, active breed. They adapt well to various living environments, provided their exercise needs are met.

Brush the curly coat 2-3 times a week to prevent matting. Occasional trimming may be needed, especially around the ears and feet.

Bathe only as needed, as frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Check and clean the ears regularly to prevent infections, especially after swimming.

Trim nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient exercise, but a home with a yard is ideal.

This breed is relatively easy to train due to its intelligence and eagerness to please. They require a moderate amount of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Pont-Audemer Spaniels are intelligent and respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for a well-behaved companion. They can be sensitive, so harsh training methods should be avoided.

These dogs need a moderate amount of exercise, including daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore. Their background as a hunting dog means they enjoy activities that engage their natural instincts, such as retrieving and swimming. Mental stimulation, through puzzle toys or training sessions, is also important.

Establish clear rules and expectations from a young age.

Use rewards-based training for best results.

Expose your dog to various people, dogs, and environments early on.

Provide puzzle toys and engaging activities to prevent boredom.

If possible, provide opportunities for swimming, as they are natural water dogs.

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

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

Due to their floppy ears and love of water, they are prone to ear infections.

A degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness.

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel, or Epagneul Pont-Audemer, emerged in the 19th century in the Normandy region of France, specifically near the town of Pont-Audemer. It's believed to be a descendant of crosses between various water dogs, possibly including the Irish Water Spaniel and now-extinct regional French spaniel breeds. Primarily used for hunting waterfowl in marshy areas, the breed's numbers dwindled significantly during the World Wars. Dedicated breeders worked to revive the Pont-Audemer Spaniel, but it remains a relatively rare breed, even in France. The United Kennel Club (UKC) officially recognized the breed in 1995. The FCI also recognizes the breed.

No breed is truly hypoallergenic, but the Pont-Audemer Spaniel's curly coat produces less dander than some other breeds, which may be better tolerated by some allergy sufferers.

They need at least 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise per day, including walks, playtime, and ideally, opportunities for swimming or retrieving.

Generally, yes, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age. They can be playful and enjoy the company of other dogs.

Yes, it is a relatively rare breed, even in its native France. Finding a breeder may require some effort and patience.

They can be vocal, especially if they are bored or left alone for long periods. Early training and consistent socialization can help manage barking.

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

The average lifespan of a Pont-Audemer Spaniel is 12-14 years.

Yes, they are natural water dogs and typically love to swim. It's an excellent form of exercise for them.

Their curly coat needs to be brushed 2-3 times a week to prevent matting. Occasional trimming may also be necessary.

Yes, they are alert and will bark to alert their owners to anything unusual, making them good watchdogs.