Petit gascon saintongeois

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

Here, you will find all the useful information about petit 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

Originating in the mid-19th century in France, the Petit Gascon Saintongeois represents a relatively recent canine breed. There are two size variations for this breed: one that is relatively tall on legs, and the other, smaller one known as the "Petit Gascon Saintongeois," which emerged around the 20th century and is essentially a miniature version of the Grand Gascon Saintongeois.

Joseph de Carayon-Latour is credited with the development of this breed, and he is attributed with its creation. Primarily designed for hare hunting, the Petit Gascon Saintongeois is the result of a cross between the Bleus de Gascogne and the Chien de Saintonge. The objective was to revitalize the somewhat aging characteristics of the Chien de Saintonge, a declining breed that actually disappeared shortly after the creation of the Gascon Saintongeois. It was officially recognized by the FCI on August 10, 1963, and its current standard was established on March 6, 2007.

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois belongs to the category of medium-sized dogs, with a rather elongated and athletic silhouette. Despite its delicate appearance, it is actually solidly built. Its gait is elegant, ample, and regular. Its head reflects the type of French hunting dog, and its body, slightly longer than tall, fits within a rectangle.

Its backline is subtly curved, sturdy, and powerful. It has a strong hindquarters, a lean musculature, and a spacious chest. With impressive strength and exceptional resistance to effort, its endurance is legendary. Once it picks up a scent, it never gives up. Its coat is short, dense, and close-fitting, with a predominantly white base color adorned with black spots. Some flecks are also allowed according to breed standards.

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois excels as a tracker and hunter of medium to large game. Primarily used for hare or game hunting, it possesses great adaptability and is comfortable with a variety of prey. Its formidable sense of smell is highly esteemed by French hunters. The Gascon Saintongeois is capable of working independently or in a pack, and it excels in multiple areas.

As a docile and pleasant companion, it easily adapts to household life, displaying calmness as long as its energy expenditure needs are met. Affectionate and expressive, it proves to be a remarkable family dog, faithful and attentive to its environment, bringing gentleness and tenderness to all members of the household.

In adulthood, its weight will be approximately 25 kg (55 lb), and its shoulder height will range between 52 and 58 cm (20.5" - 23") for males and between 50 and 56 cm (19.5" - 22") for females.

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Origins

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is a French dog breed, originating from the Gascogne and Saintonge regions. This dog is the result of a cross between the Gascon Saintongeois and the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, made to obtain a medium-sized hunting dog, suitable for hunting small game. The breed retains the qualities of its ancestors, with exceptional tracking ability and great endurance. It is particularly prized for its hunting skills and ability to work in a pack, while also being an excellent family companion.

History

The history of the Petit Gascon Saintongeois begins in the 19th century in France, where breeders were seeking to create an efficient and resistant hunting dog. They crossed the Grand Gascon Saintongeois with the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, resulting in a versatile and compact breed. This dog quickly became popular among hunters for its tracking skills and exceptional sense of smell. Over time, the Petit Gascon Saintongeois has managed to retain its hunting traits while adapting as a companion dog thanks to its balanced temperament.

Standard

The standard of the Petit Gascon Saintongeois breed has been established to maintain the distinctive characteristics of the breed. It describes a medium-sized dog with a harmonious and muscular morphology. The head is elongated, with drooping ears and large expressive eyes. The body is well-proportioned, supported by strong and well-developed limbs. The standard also emphasizes the tricolor coat, typically white with black spots and tan markings, as well as the dog's character, which should be sociable, energetic, and passionate about hunting.

Physical characteristics

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is a medium-sized dog, measuring between 48 and 58 cm at the withers for males and between 47 and 56 cm for females. Its weight varies from 20 to 25 kg. It has a short, dense and tight coat, generally white with black spots and tan markings above the eyes and on the cheeks. Its ears are long and drooping, its brown eyes display a sweet and intelligent expression. Its tail is long and carried like a saber, adding to its elegant and athletic appearance.

Character

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is an intelligent, affectionate, and sociable dog. He is known for his great adaptability and balanced temperament. Passionate about hunting, he is also very loyal and protective towards his family. He enjoys outdoor activities and is particularly appreciated for his friendliness and gentleness with children. Although he may be reserved with strangers, he is never aggressive. His education requires patience and gentleness, as he responds better to a positive approach encouraged by rewards.

Life expectancy

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois has an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. As with all breeds, this longevity can vary depending on several factors, including genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care. By providing this dog with a balanced diet, regular care, and sufficient physical activity, it is possible to maximize its quality of life and longevity. Special attention to regular health checks allows for early detection and treatment of any potential health issues.

Exercise and activity needs

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is an energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. He must be able to expel energy daily through long walks, games, and ideally hunting or tracking activities. This dog also enjoys hiking and outdoor outings where he can use his exceptional sense of smell. Lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors or anxiety. It is essential to offer him regular opportunities to expend energy physically and mentally.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Petit Gascon Saintongeois must be balanced and adapted to its high energy needs. It is recommended to provide quality food, such as premium kibble or a balanced homemade diet. It is important to respect the daily portions to avoid overweight. The monthly cost of food for a Petit Gascon Saintongeois is generally between 50 and 80 euros, depending on the quality of the products chosen and the specific needs of the dog. Regular consultation with a veterinarian can help adjust the diet based on the dog's age, weight, and activity level.

Training and obedience

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is an intelligent and receptive dog, which makes training and education easier. However, they can sometimes be stubborn, requiring a firm yet gentle approach. The use of positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, is particularly effective. Early socialization is essential to develop their sociable character and avoid shyness or aggression towards strangers and other animals. Training for hunting can be an excellent activity to stimulate their natural instinct and reinforce obedience.

Behavior with children

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is known for its excellent behavior with children. It is gentle, patient, and protective, making it an ideal playmate for the young ones. Its balanced temperament allows it to easily adapt to family life and actively participate in family activities. However, as with all interactions between dogs and children, it is important to supervise playtime and teach children to respect the animal. This vigilance ensures the safety and well-being of everyone, promoting a harmonious relationship.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is generally sociable and can coexist well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Its hunting nature can sometimes make it curious and alert towards small animals, but with good training, it learns to peacefully cohabit with them. It is often more comfortable with other dogs, enjoying the company and group play. Initial supervision and gradual introduction are recommended to ensure a harmonious integration into a multi-pet household.

Grooming needs

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois has a short and dense coat that requires little maintenance. A weekly brushing is generally sufficient to remove dead hair and maintain the shine of its coat. It is also important to regularly check its ears to prevent infections, given their large size and drooping position. An occasional bath, depending on its activities, may be necessary to keep its coat clean. Regular attention to the nails, teeth, and eyes also contributes to its overall well-being.

Health

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is generally a robust breed with few major health problems. However, like all dogs, it may be prone to certain conditions, including ear infections due to its droopy ears, joint issues, and skin allergies. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and frequent veterinary check-ups are essential to maintain its good health. Genetic screenings can also be useful in detecting potential hereditary diseases and ensuring a long and healthy life.

Average price

The average price of a Petit Gascon Saintongeois varies depending on its pedigree, lineage, and the breeder. Generally, the cost of a puppy ranges from 500 to 1,000 euros. Dogs from reputable hunting lines or with competition titles can be more expensive. It is essential to choose a responsible breeder who provides guarantees on the health and well-being of their puppies. The initial purchase price may be followed by additional expenses for veterinary care, food, and necessary accessories for its well-being.

Expenses

The average monthly expenses for a Petit Gascon Saintongeois can range from 80 to 150 euros. This budget includes quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, and accessories such as toys and leashes. Costs may increase based on participation in specific activities, such as training sessions or hunting competitions. It is also important to set aside savings for potential veterinary emergencies and unforeseen medical treatments.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your Petit Gascon Saintongeois can be an exciting moment. Here are some suggestions of names suitable for this elegant and dynamic breed: Aramis, Balou, Django, Eros, Fidji, Gaia, Hugo, Iris, Jango, Kali, Louka, Maya, Néo, Oscar, Pacha, Quinoa, Roxane, Simba, Tango, Ulysse. These names reflect their noble character and hunting spirit. It is recommended to choose a short, easy to pronounce name that the dog can easily recognize to facilitate its learning and responsiveness.

Legislation and regulation

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is not classified as a dangerous breed and is not subject to any specific regulations in France. However, it is important to respect legal obligations concerning all dogs, such as identification by microchip or tattoo, and rabies vaccination. Some regions or countries may have additional regulations, especially regarding hunting dogs. It is advisable to inquire with local authorities to ensure compliance with current laws.

Official recognition

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is recognized by several cynological organizations around the world. In France, it is recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) also recognizes this breed, assigning it standard number 21. In the United States, the United Kennel Club (UKC) also recognizes the Petit Gascon Saintongeois. These recognitions allow participation in official shows and competitions, while ensuring compliance with international breed standards.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees for the Petit Gascon Saintongeois can be obtained from various breed clubs and certification organizations. In France, the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) manages pedigrees and registrations with the Livre des Origines Français (LOF). Other breed clubs, such as the Club du Bleu de Gascogne, Gascon Saintongeois, and Ariegeois, also offer information and pedigrees. Internationally, organizations like the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the United Kennel Club (UKC) provide recognized pedigree certificates.

Destination and usage

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is primarily used as a hunting dog, specialized in tracking small game such as hare and deer. Thanks to its exceptional sense of smell and great endurance, it excels in hunting in difficult terrain. In addition to its hunting skills, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for its affectionate and sociable nature. Its intelligence and desire to please make it an excellent candidate for various canine activities, including tracking and agility, reinforcing its versatile role.

Prohibitions

The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is not subject to any specific prohibition regarding its possession or breeding. However, it is important to note that hunting, the main activity for which this breed is often used, may be subject to strict regulations depending on the countries and regions. Owners must comply with local hunting laws and necessary permits. Apart from these regulatory aspects related to hunting activity, there are no particular restrictions concerning this breed in terms of ownership or reproduction.

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