The Braque d’Auvergne dog is a pointer and versatile gundog. And it also makes a great family pet. It is intelligent and obedient, but gentle and affectionate in the home. It is also known as Auvergne Pointer and Bleu d’Auvergne.
The Braque d’Auvergne dog breed was originated in the mountain area of the Cantal, in the historic Auvergne province in the mid-south of France. It descends from ancient regional types of hunting dogs.
The breed has been present in the Cantal region for more than 2 Centuries and was recognized as a French gundog breed with an FCI breed standard in 2004.
Exact origins of the Braque d’Auvergne dog breed are unknown. But it is definitely an old breed that has existed in France for many years. The breed is thought to have been developed in the Auvergne region of France during the 1700s and it is one of the several smooth-coated French pointing breeds.
It is thought to have descended from the original Braque breed, the Braque Francais which was popular in France during the 1600s. This breed was crossed with various local breeds throughout France to create regional breeds like the d’Auvergne.
The Braque d’Auvergne dog breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2006, but has yet to be recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Braque d’Auvergne Dog Characteristics
The Braque d’Auvergne dogs are very beautiful and are medium in size. They are a strong and substantial dogs. They have a large head, long ears and pendulous lips. The tail was traditionally docked to half of it’s length.
Coat of these dogs is short, and glossy and is white in coloration with mottling of black that gives a blue impression, and large black spots. Their head and ears are always black.
The Braque d’Auvergne dogs are medium in size. Average height of the mature dog is between 22 and 26 inches at the withers for males, and between 20 and 24 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 22 and 28 kg.
Temperament
The Braque d’Auvergne dog is affectionate, lively, obedient and sensitive. It is intelligent and good natured, and makes a fine family dog and an excellent hunting partner. The breed gets along well with other dogs.
The Braque d’Auvergne dog is a natural hunter who tends to work closely with it’s partner, checking in frequently. This trait, combined with it’s gentle nature and desire to please, make it highly trainable pointer.[1]
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Braque d’Auvergne 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 d’Auvergne dogs are medium in size and are very active. So, their diet should be formulated for a large sized breed with high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Braque d’Auvergne dogs. They require plenty of exercise, as they were developed as a working breed.
They generally require a long daily walk or runs as well as plenty of active play time. They will also appreciate having outdoor space to run. Training these dogs for hunting or other dog sport is a great way to make sure their exercise requirements are met.
The Braque d’Auvergne dogs are very intelligent and responds well to training and learns quickly. They respond best to positive reinforcement-based training methods and they have an obedient nature.
Health
The Braque d’Auvergne dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and aortic stenosis. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Braque d’Auvergne |
| Other Names | Also known as Auvergne Pointer and Bleu d’Auvergne |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | B22 and 26 inches at the withers for males, and between 20 and 24 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 22 and 28 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Black with white markings |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | France |
