Gascon saintongeois

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog gascon saintongeois!

Here, you will find all the useful information about gascon saintongeois. 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.

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Overall description of the breed

Developed in the middle of the 19th century in the southwest of France, the Gascon Saintongeois is a French hunting dog breed with ancient origins. There are two distinct sizes, one rather tall and slender, and another smaller one called the "Petit Gascon Saintongeois" which appeared later, in the early 20th century.

Developed by Joseph de Carayon-Latour, he is credited with its full authorship, it was created mainly for hunting hares. It was created mainly for hunting hares. It was a cross between the Bleus de Gascogne and other French hunting dogs, and its aim was to improve the faults of the Saintonge dog, a declining breed which disappeared shortly after the creation of the Gascon Saintongeois. Thanks to a serious selection carried out by numerous breeders, the breed was recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 10 August 1963 and its current standard was published on 6 March 2007.

The Gascon Saintongeois is one of the larger dogs, its appearance is rather long, but it remains solidly built as a whole. The Virelade dog is known for its elegant, ample and regular appearance, its head shape is representative of most French hunting dogs. His body is slightly longer than it is tall, inscribable in a rectangle, his topline is discreetly curved and broad, the loins strong and the chest deep.

His athletic body is remarkably muscular, giving him exceptional endurance. The coat is short and close, with a predominantly white colour with black patches, although some speckling is permitted by the breed standard.

The Gascon Saintongeois has a particularly well developed instinct for predation and pursuit, and is mainly used for shooting and hounding. Endowed with great adaptability, he is very comfortable with small and large game. Its sense of smell is formidable, it can track prey for miles. Sociable and docile, he can work alone or in a pack without difficulty, remarkably efficient in all areas of hunting.

An endearing and pleasant companion, the Gascon Saintongeois easily acclimates to life in a home where it will be calm, provided its daily energy needs are met. Affectionate and demonstrative, it is a faithful family dog and attentive to its environment, showing great tenderness to all members of the house.

Adult: The Gascon Saintongeois will weigh approximately 73-79 lbs and stand approximately 25.5-28.3" for males and 24.4-26.7" for females.

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Origins

The Gascon Saintongeois is a dog breed originating from France, specifically from the regions of Gascogne and Saintonge. Developed in the 18th century, this hunting dog is the result of crosses between the Bleu de Gascogne and Saintonge dogs, two breeds known for their hunting skills. The Gascon Saintongeois was created to combine the qualities of these two breeds, including endurance, exceptional scenting abilities, and the ability to track over long distances.

History

The history of the Gascon Saintongeois dates back to the 18th century, when French hunters were looking to improve the performance of their hunting dogs. By crossing the Blue Gascony, known for its exceptional sense of smell and endurance, with the Saintonge dog, famous for its speed and determination, they created an ideal breed for hunting big game such as deer and wild boar. Officially recognized by the French Kennel Club in 1927, the Gascon Saintongeois is now appreciated for its hunting skills and loyal character.

Standard

The Gascon Saintongeois breed standard describes a dog of large size, elegant and powerful. Males measure between 65 and 72 cm at the withers and weigh between 30 and 35 kg, while females are slightly smaller. The head is long with a slightly domed skull and pendulous ears. The eyes are large and dark, expressing sweetness and intelligence. The coat is short, dense and smooth, usually white with well-defined black patches and sometimes blue speckles. The tail is long and carried like a saber, adding to its noble appearance.

Physical characteristics

The Gascon Saintongeois is an athletic and well-proportioned dog, with a robust structure and well-developed limbs. Its head is long and noble, with drooping ears that reach almost to the end of its muzzle. Its dark and expressive eyes give it an intelligent and gentle appearance. The coat is short, dense, and shiny, often white with black spots and sometimes blue speckles. Its legs are strong and straight, with tightly closed feet, allowing it to run long distances without getting tired. Its tail is long and slightly curved, completing its elegant appearance.

Character

The Gascon Saintongeois is known for its sweet, loyal, and determined character. As a hunting dog, it is very courageous and tenacious, able to follow a trail over long distances and in difficult conditions. With its family, it is affectionate and devoted, constantly seeking to please its masters. Although it may be reserved with strangers, it is generally sociable with other dogs. Its calm and balanced nature makes it an excellent companion for active families, provided they offer it enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Life expectancy

The Gascon Saintongeois has an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. To maximize its longevity and quality of life, it is essential to provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Like all breeds, regular health monitoring is crucial to prevent and quickly treat any potential illnesses. Common health issues in this breed include hip dysplasia and ear infections, requiring periodic veterinary exams and proper care to maintain its good health.

Exercise and activity needs

The Gascon Saintongeois is a very active dog that requires a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, runs, and outdoor games are essential to meet its energy needs. Due to its strong hunting instinct, it excels in outdoor activities such as hiking and canine sports like agility. It is best to keep it on a leash or in a secured space when outside to prevent it from following a trail. Mentally stimulating activities are also important to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Recommended diet

The Gascon Saintongeois's diet must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity, age, and health. High-quality, protein-rich food is essential to maintain its muscle and energy. Portions should be carefully measured to prevent overweight problems, especially in less active dogs. It is recommended to divide meals into two portions per day to facilitate digestion. Treats can be used in moderation, especially as rewards during training sessions, while monitoring calorie intake to prevent excessive weight gain.

Training and obedience

The education of the Gascon Saintongeois requires a consistent and patient approach, using positive reinforcement methods. Due to its intelligence and hunting instinct, it can sometimes be independent and easily distracted, but it responds well to encouragement and rewards. Early socialization is crucial for learning to interact properly with other dogs, animals, and people. Obedience classes can help establish a good education base, and mentally stimulating activities are necessary to prevent boredom and undesired behaviors.

Behavior with children

The Gascon Saintongeois is generally good with children, especially if properly socialized and trained from a young age. Its energy and playful nature make it an excellent playmate for active children. However, due to its size and energy levels, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid rough play. Children should be educated on how to treat and respect the dog to ensure a harmonious and safe coexistence. Its patience and affectionate nature make it a good family companion.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Gascon Saintongeois can coexist with other pets if well socialized from a young age. Its hunting instinct may drive it to chase small animals, but with gradual introduction and supervision, it can learn to accept other animals. Relationships with other dogs are usually good, especially if accustomed to living in a pack. However, initial supervision is recommended to ensure that interactions go smoothly and all animals get used to each other's presence.

Grooming needs

The Gascon Saintongeois has a short and dense coat that requires little maintenance. A weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hairs and keep its coat clean and shiny. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary to control hair loss. Baths are only necessary when the dog is particularly dirty, as excessive bathing can dry out its skin. It is important to regularly monitor and clean its ears to prevent infections, as well as trim its nails and brush its teeth to maintain good overall hygiene.

Health

The Gascon Saintongeois is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it can be subject to certain hereditary conditions. Among the most common health problems are hip dysplasia, ear infections due to its long floppy ears, and certain eye diseases. Regular veterinary follow-up, appropriate nutrition, and moderate exercise help prevent and manage these issues. Genetic screening tests can also be performed to assess the risks of hereditary diseases and ensure the health of puppies.

Average price

The price of a Gascon Saintongeois puppy generally ranges from 600 to 1,200 euros (or 700 to 1,300 dollars), depending on the breeder's reputation, bloodlines, and quality of the parents. Reputable breeders often offer health guarantees, pedigree certificates, and post-sale support, justifying a higher price. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who respects the breed standards and provides healthy, well-socialized puppies with all necessary vaccinations.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Gascon Saintongeois can vary between 1,000 and 1,800 euros (or 1,100 and 2,000 dollars). This includes costs for high-quality food, regular veterinary care (vaccinations, deworming, health checks), pet insurance, grooming products, and accessories. Additional fees may occur for training classes, specific activities, and unexpected medical treatments. Healthcare costs may increase in case of breed-specific health issues requiring special follow-ups or treatments.

Name ideas

For a Gascon Saintongeois, names reflecting its noble character and energy are ideal. For example, "Hunter" evokes its hunting instinct, "Ranger" recalls the vast lands it roams, "Bella" meaning "beautiful" in Italian, or "Rex" for its regal nature. "Max" for its imposing stature, "Luna" for its protective side, "Dash" in reference to its speed, "Scout" for its explorer spirit, "Zeus" symbolizing strength, and "Nova" as a new star in your life. These names capture various facets of the dynamic and loyal personality of the Gascon Saintongeois.

Legislation and regulation

The Gascon Saintongeois is generally not subject to specific restrictions in most countries. However, it is essential to comply with local regulations regarding dog ownership. This includes registration with local authorities, mandatory vaccinations, and compliance with responsible ownership rules. In France, for example, dogs must be identified by microchip or tattoo and registered in the national database for the identification of domestic carnivores. It is recommended to check local laws before acquiring a Gascon Saintongeois.

Official recognition

The Gascon Saintongeois is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 21, in group 6 (scent hounds, blood trail hounds, and related breeds).

Pedigrees

The pedigrees of Gascon Saintongeois dogs are available from breed clubs and national canine organizations such as the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) in France. These pedigrees provide detailed information on the dog's lineage, tracing back several generations and including information on ancestors, their conformity to breed standards, and their potential participation in shows. A certified pedigree ensures the purity of the breed and helps to assess the qualities and genetic predispositions of the puppies.

Destination and usage

Historically, the Gascon Saintongeois has been primarily used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking large game such as deer and wild boar. Today, it retains its skills as a fearless hunter and is often used for hunting in packs. However, due to its friendly and sociable nature, it is also an excellent companion dog for active families. Its versatility allows it to participate in various canine activities, such as agility, obedience, and shows, where it can demonstrate its endurance and intelligence.

Prohibitions

Gascon Saintongeois is generally not prohibited in most countries, as it is not considered a dangerous breed. However, it is essential to check local regulations regarding dog ownership, as they may vary. Some jurisdictions may impose specific restrictions on hunting dogs. It is crucial to comply with local laws regarding dog ownership, including registration, vaccinations, and following responsible ownership rules to avoid any legal issues.

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