The Braque Francais dog is a breed of hunting dog from a very old type of gun dog used for pointing the location of game birds for a hunter. They are also known by some other names such as French Pointing Dog, de Grande Taille etc.
The Braque Francais dog breed was originated from France. They are popular hunting dogs in their native area, but are seldom seen elsewhere.
The breed was bred originally for hunting, but it has easily made the transition to the ideal family pet. It is one of the latest dominant dog breeds you will ever come across and it is extremely eager to please. These traits, combined with it’s friendly temperament, make this dog a wonderful family pet, especially for families with children.
There are two breeds of Braque français, both from the south of France, the Braque français, type Gascogne (French Pointing Dog – Gascogne type, larger size) and the Braque français, type Pyrénées (French Pointing Dog – Pyrenean type, smaller size).{1}
The original type of the Braque Francais dog breed dates back to the 15th Century, though the breed has been crossed with other dogs since then.
The Braque Francais breed is not currently recognized by the AKC, but it is recognized by the United Kennel Club as part of the Gun Dog Group. The breed is also recognized by the FCI.
Braque Francais Dog Characteristics
The Braque Francais dogs are medium to large sized dogs with long legs and long drop ears. Their coat is short, thick and well furnished, finer on the head and ears.
Common coloration of these dogs are chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white (with or without ticking or roaning or tan markings). The head is usually brown.
Average height of the mature dogs is between 23 and 27 inches at the wither for males of the Gascogne type, and between 22 and 27 for the females. Their average body weight is between 20 and 36 kg.
On the other hand, average height of of the Pyrenean type is between 19 and 23 inches at the withers for males, and between 19 and 22 inches for the females. Their average body weight is between 16 and 25 kg.
Temperament
Temperament of the Braque Francais dog is described as friendly, sociable, gentle and submissive. And as a soft breed, it should not be subjected to harsh training methods.
Although, temperament of individual dogs can vary, and all dogs must be well socialized with people and other animals at an early age in order to be a good pet.
They are naturally affectionate and loving with their human companions and they love to spend time with people. They are prone to develop severe separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time and they require plenty of socialization and early training.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Braque Francais dog is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Braque Francais dogs are medium to large in size and are very active. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with high exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Braque Francais dogs. They were actually developed as a hunting breed, so they are very active and energetic dogs. They require plenty of mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis including a long daily walk and plenty of active play time. The breed will also enjoy having a yard to run around in.
The Braque Francais dogs are highly intelligent breed that responds well to training. They can do very well as family pets with proper socialization and training. It is a people-oriented breed and eager to please, so training usually goes fairly quickly.
Health
The Braque Francais dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, eye problems, aortic stenosis and patellar luxation. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Braque Francais |
| Other Names | Also known as French Pointing Dog, de Grande Taille |
| Breed Size | Medium to large |
| Height | Between 23 and 27 inches at the wither for males of the Gascogne type, and between 22 and 27 for the females Average height of of the Pyrenean type is between 19 and 23 inches at the withers for males, and between 19 and 22 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 20 and 36 kg for the Gascogne type, and between 16 and 25 kg for the Pyrenean type |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white (with or without ticking or roaning or tan markings) |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | France |
