The Ariegeois dog is a medium sized pack-hunting scenthound deriving from crossing of Grand Bleu de Gascogne and Grand Gascon-Saintongeois hounds with local Briquet dogs. It is also called as Ariege Hound.
This breed originated in France in 1912, making it a fairly new breed. It is not yet well known outside it’s own region. The Ariegeois breed is registered with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.
The Ariegeois dog is from the département of Ariège in the Midi-Pyrenées region of southern France. It is used both as a course and for driving game to waiting guns. With most successful with hares, it is also used for hunting deer and boar.
The Ariegeois dogs are distinguished by their friendly nature with other hounds and affection for human companions.[1]
Ariegeois Dog Characteristics
The Ariegeois dogs are medium-sized animals with beautiful appearance. Their coat is smooth and short, white in coloration with clearly defined black markings. It is sometimes mottled and there may be tan points at the head.
The head of these dogs is lean and elongated. There are no wrinkles. Their eyes are dark and gentle. The ears are very soft and medium in length. Their nose is black, and the muzzle is of medium length.
Their neck is slender and arched slightly, to the chest with is narrow and deep. The ribs are well-sprung with a strong, slopping back. They should have straight forelegs and strong, powerful hindlegs. Their tail is slightly curved, and the feet are hard and foxlike.
Average height of the mature Ariegeois dogs is between 20 and 23 inches for males, and between 20 and 22 inches for females. Average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 28 and 30 kg.
Temperament
The Ariegeois dogs are generally talented scenthound, and affectionate and serene in the home. Now the breed is being bred in Italy and used to hunt wild boar, performing well in this endeavour under Italian conditions.
As is true for many scenthounds, the Ariegeois dogs are affectionate and a loyal breed with family. They generally get along well with children, because they are gentle and patient. They can also do well with cats and other pets if raised with them from a young age.
Although, the Ariegeois dogs will never harm a family member, but they can be a little aloof or even suspicious around strangers. It is also important to realize that, although the Ariegeois is a pack hunter, it can develop low levels of dog aggression.
Early socialization and training are very important for these animals. The Ariegeois dogs make wonderful family pets, when properly trained.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Ariegeois dog is between 10 and 12 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.
An Ariegeois dog should be given a diet formulated for a medium size dog with moderate energy levels. You can consult with your vet for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Ariegeois dogs. As a breed developed for hunting, the Ariegeois dogs have high needs for exercise. They are very active, so they may need more than a single walk per day.
As a scenthound, the Ariegeois may also appreciate having time and space outdoors to run and follow scents. Just be sure it is in a fenced yard or that you keep the dog on a leash so it doesn’t follow the trail too far.
Health
The Ariegeois dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include ear infections, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy as well as field injuries. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Ariegeois |
| Other Names | Also called as Ariege Hound |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | 20 to 23 inches at the withers for males and 20 to 22 inches for females |
| Weight | Between 28 and 30 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | White and jet black |
| Lifespan | Between 10 and 12 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | France |
