French spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog french spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about french spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

Described by Gaston Phoebus in his book "Book of the Hunt" dating from 1507, the French Spaniel has very ancient origins, traces of its presence can be found as early as the Middle Ages, a period in which it was very successful, particularly with hunters. It was one of the first pointing dogs on the European continent and remained the most popular until the end of the 19ᵉ century, after which it was preferred to the English Setter, which was faster and more enduring than it. Despite this massive disinterest at the beginning of the 20th century, some passionate breeders, such as James Coninck, strove to safeguard the breed and its genetic heritage.

He was responsible for the foundation of the first breed standard in 1891, the first French Spaniel breed club was opened in 1906 and the International Cynological Federation recognised the breed definitively on 25 June 1955. The last update of the official standard in force was published on 4 November 2008.

They are medium-sized dogs of the braccoid type, elegant and harmoniously built. Appreciated for its many hunting and tracking qualities, despite its apparent slenderness, it has developed muscles and strong bones. His body is homogeneous as a whole, his chest is broad, associated with a deep and ample chest. Slightly longer than he is tall, he is rectangular in shape, with a straight, firm topline, solid loins and firm croup.

The head is carried proudly, always in proportion to the body, the muzzle is of medium length with a slightly defined stop. The coat is short and flat, covering the whole body, with discreet waves on the neck and ears. The colour of the coat accepted by the breed standard is white and brown, with speckles.

Like all dogs of its category, the French Spaniel has a gentle and tender character with its owners, always on the lookout for the slightest sign of affection, it is a pleasant and dynamic companion dog. Faithful and loyal, he is a formidable hunting partner, never far from his partner, he will show courage in all circumstances. Enduring and determined, he has a remarkable resistance to effort, he is a formidable tracker, in particular thanks to his powerful sense of smell which enables him to follow prey over miles.

The Spaniel is known for its sociable and willing temperament, never aggressive or fearful with people it does not know, it proves to be a reliable and trustworthy partner. In short, the French Spaniel is a safe bet, whether as a worker or in the family, an endearing companion that will shower you with attention every day.

Adult: The French Spaniel will weigh approximately 55 lbs and stand approximately 21.6 - 24" for males and 21.2 - 23.2" for females.

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Origins

The French Spaniel is an ancient breed originating from France, specifically from the regions of the southwest and center of the country. Its ancestors date back to the Middle Ages, where they were used as versatile hunting dogs, capable of working in various terrains. This breed is the result of crosses between various European spaniels. Over time, the French Spaniel has evolved to become an excellent hunting dog, known for its exceptional sense of smell and endurance. Its rural origins reflect its adaptability and robustness.

History

The history of the French Spaniel is rich and ancient. Used since the Middle Ages for hunting, it is mentioned in texts dating back to the 16th century. In the 18th century, it was particularly prized by the French nobility for its hunting skills. Over the centuries, the breed has been improved to enhance its working abilities. In the early 20th century, rigorous selection efforts were undertaken to standardize the breed. Today, the French Spaniel is appreciated for its hunting qualities and gentle nature.

Standard

The French Spaniel standard describes a medium-sized, well-proportioned and elegant dog. Males measure between 55 and 61 cm at the withers, while females measure between 54 and 59 cm. Its coat is long and slightly wavy, usually white with brown patches. The head is well-proportioned with a pronounced stop and dark brown, expressive and intelligent eyes. The ears are long, drooping and well supplied with hair. The body is muscular with a deep chest, strong limbs and a tail carried like a saber.

Physical characteristics

The French Spaniel is a medium-sized, robust and elegant dog. Males measure between 55 and 61 cm at the withers and females between 54 and 59 cm. Its coat is long, dense and slightly wavy, mainly white with brown spots that can vary in size and intensity. Its eyes, dark brown, are bright and express softness and intelligence. The ears are long and drooping, covered with wavy hair. The body is well proportioned, with a deep chest and strong limbs, giving this dog great endurance.

Character

The French Spaniel is known for its gentle, affectionate, and loyal nature. It is an intelligent and obedient dog, making it easy to train. It is very sociable and gets along well with children and other pets. As a hunting dog, it is energetic and enthusiastic, enjoying outdoor activities and games. However, it also knows how to be calm and composed at home, appreciating moments of rest with its family. Its balanced nature makes it an excellent life companion.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the French Spaniel is generally 12 to 14 years. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Regular visits to the veterinarian help detect and treat any potential illness quickly. By providing continuous attention and a healthy lifestyle to the French Spaniel, owners can maximize its life expectancy and ensure that it remains a happy and healthy companion.

Exercise and activity needs

The French Spaniel is an active dog that needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. As a hunting dog, it particularly enjoys long walks, runs, and retrieval games. It is essential to provide daily outings and stimulating activities to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Canine sports such as agility or canicross are also good options to meet its needs for physical and mental activity.

Recommended diet

The feeding of the French Spaniel must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity. High quality food, rich in proteins and essential nutrients, is recommended. Premium kibbles, supplemented with fresh foods such as meat, vegetables and fruits, make up an ideal diet. It is important to monitor portions to avoid overweight. Nutritional needs may vary depending on the age, weight and activity of the dog, so regular consultation with a veterinarian is advised to adjust its diet.

Training and obedience

The education of the French Spaniel must start at a young age. Intelligent and eager to please, it responds well to consistent and positive training. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praises, are especially effective for this breed. Early socialization is crucial to familiarize the dog with different people, animals, and environments. Patience and consistency are essential for successful training, ensuring that this dog is well-balanced, obedient, and happy.

Behavior with children

The French Spaniel is generally very good with children. Its gentle and affectionate nature makes it an excellent companion for families. It tolerates children's games well and can be protective towards them. However, as with all dogs, it is important to supervise interactions between children and the dog to ensure they take place safely. Teaching children to respect the dog and its needs will contribute to a harmonious and incident-free relationship.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The French Spaniel is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, especially if it has been properly socialized from a young age. It can peacefully coexist with other dogs and even with cats, as long as appropriate introductions are made. Its hunting instinct may sometimes be triggered, but with proper training and supervision, it can learn to live in harmony with a variety of animals. Its friendly nature makes positive interactions with its counterparts easier.

Grooming needs

Regular grooming of the French Spaniel is required due to its dense and slightly wavy coat. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent knots and tangles, as well as to remove debris and dead hair. More frequent brushing may be necessary during shedding periods. It is also important to check and clean their droopy ears to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and occasional baths will help maintain a clean and healthy coat.

Health

The French Spaniel is generally a robust breed with few major health issues. However, as with all breeds, some health problems may occur. Common conditions include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and certain eye diseases. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary visits help maintain its health. Prevention through regular care and attention to signs of illness is essential for ensuring a long and healthy life.

Average price

The price of a French Spaniel puppy can vary considerably depending on several factors, including the breeder's reputation, the parents' lineage, and the geographical region. Generally, you can expect to pay between 800 and 1,500 euros (or between 900 and 1,700 dollars) for a puppy of this breed. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who respects the breed standards and conducts the necessary health tests to ensure the puppies' good health.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a French Spaniel include food, veterinary care, grooming, and various accessories. For food, approximately 500 to 700 euros (550 to 770 dollars) per year should be budgeted. Routine veterinary care, including vaccines and annual check-ups, can cost around 300 to 500 euros (330 to 550 dollars). Grooming, depending on the frequency and location, may represent an annual cost of 200 to 400 euros (220 to 440 dollars). Accessories and toys can add around 100 to 200 euros (110 to 220 dollars).

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a French Spaniel can be a fun task. For a male, "Hunter" could reflect his natural hunting instinct. "Gaston" is a traditional French name that evokes nobility. "King" can signify his royal appearance. For a female, "Flower" evokes her gentleness. "Jewel" symbolizes her rarity and beauty. "Star" can recall her bright and joyful nature. Other names like "River" for her agility, "Sun" for her playful temperament, "Mist" for her discretion, and "Pearl" for her natural shine are also appropriate.

Legislation and regulation

As for legislation and regulations, the French Spaniel is not subject to any particular restrictions. Like all dogs, it is important to comply with local laws regarding registration, vaccination, and pet control. Owners should also ensure that their dog is well trained and socialized to avoid any problematic behaviors. Rules may vary depending on the country and region, so it is advisable to inquire with local authorities.

Official recognition

The French Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 175. The breed is also recognized by other global cynological registers such as the LOF (Livre des Origines Françaises) and the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. In France, the official organization responsible for this breed is the French Spaniel Club. This organization works on promoting, preserving, and improving the breed through breeding programs and exhibitions.

Pedigrees

French Spaniel pedigrees are available from various breed clubs and canine registries. These documents provide detailed information about the dog's lineage, including medical history and show successes of its ancestors. In France, the French Spaniel Club as well as the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) are primary sources for obtaining these pedigrees. These documents are essential for breeders and owners looking to understand and preserve the genetic qualities of the breed.

Destination and usage

The French Spaniel is primarily intended to be a versatile hunting dog, excellent for game birds and varied terrains. Thanks to its exceptional sense of smell and endurance, it is a valuable asset for hunters. However, apart from its hunting skills, it also makes an excellent companion dog. Its gentle and affectionate nature, combined with its intelligence, make it suitable for family life. It also excels in disciplines such as agility and obedience, showcasing its versatility.

Prohibitions

To date, the French Spaniel is not subject to specific bans in countries or regions of the world. However, owners should always inquire about local dog laws, as regulations can vary significantly from one place to another.

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