Picardy spaniel

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

Here, you will find all the useful information about picardy 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

As its name indicates, the Picardy Spaniel originates from the north of France, in particular from the Picardy region, created and developed exclusively on the national territory, it is almost impossible to find outside the French borders. The breed is probably a cross between local Spaniels and Oyssel dogs, but the origin of its true ancestors remains unclear. Popular at the beginning of the 20th century, the breed was gradually abandoned in favour of the faster and more efficient English hunting dog.

The Picardie Spaniel was officially recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 8 December 1954 and the last update of the official standard in force was published on 30 October 1964.

The Picardy Spaniel is a medium to large sized dog, well built and homogeneous as a whole, it has all the qualities of a good hunting dog, notably its great endurance, speed and sharp nose. Dynamic, he is always willing to participate in outdoor activities and his remarkable physical condition allows him to work on all types of terrain.

The body is as long as it is tall, square, with a clean withers and a slightly sloping topline to the loins, with a stocky back and overall well developed muscles. The head is egg-shaped, with a rounded skull, long muzzle and a faint stop. The coat of the Picardy Spaniel is soft in texture, particularly abundant, always short on the trunk, head and chest, with longer fringes on the lower legs and tail. The only coat colour permitted by the breed standard is grey mottled with brown areas on the body and tan markings on the head and lower legs.

Mainly used as a hunting dog, they are nevertheless excellent family dogs, gentle and deeply attached to people. Always cheerful, the Picardy Spaniel will amaze you with its vigour and hard work. Both lively and intelligent, it has a methodical intelligence and is always concentrated when carrying out its tasks, in order to give its best.

At ease outdoors as well as indoors, if his energy needs are met, he will be calm in his home, both sociable and jovial, he is a very pleasant companion in daily life, with an irrepressible need for the presence of a man to feel totally fulfilled.

Adult: The Picardy Spaniel will weigh 40-50.7 lbs and stand approximately 21.6-23.6" at the withers.

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Origins

The Picardy Spaniel is a French breed originating from the Picardy region in northern France. This versatile hunting dog is one of the oldest French spaniel breeds, likely descending from pointing dogs used in the Middle Ages. Adapted to marshy terrains and humid weather conditions in its native region, the Picardy Spaniel was primarily used for waterfowl hunting. Its robustness and endurance have made it a valuable companion for local hunters.

History

The history of the Picard Spaniel dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used by French nobles for hunting. It is one of the ancestors of modern spaniels, developed to be versatile hunting dogs. The breed gained popularity in the 18th century, particularly for waterfowl hunting in the marshes of Picardy. Despite a decrease in numbers in the 20th century due to the World Wars, conservation efforts have helped preserve the breed. Today, the Picard Spaniel is recognized for its qualities as a hunter and loyal companion.

Standard

The Picardy Spaniel standard describes a medium-sized, robust and well-proportioned dog. Males measure between 55 and 60 cm at the withers, while females measure between 53 and 58 cm. The weight varies from 20 to 25 kg. Its coat is dense, slightly wavy and waterproof, usually speckled gray with brown patches. The head is broad with a pronounced stop, amber or dark brown eyes, and long, drooping ears, well furnished with hair. The body is muscular with a deep chest and strong limbs.

Physical characteristics

The Picardy Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, measuring between 55 and 60 cm for males and 53 to 58 cm for females, with a weight ranging from 20 to 25 kg. Its coat is dense, slightly wavy, and waterproof, suitable for marshy terrain. The color is generally speckled gray with brown spots. The head is wide with a pronounced stop and expressive amber or dark brown eyes. The ears are long, drooping, and well covered with hair. The body is robust, muscular, and well-proportioned, with a deep chest and strong limbs.

Character

The Picardy Spaniel is known for its gentle, loyal and affectionate nature. It is an intelligent and obedient dog, easy to train, making it an excellent hunting and family companion. It is sociable and gets along well with children and other pets. Its hunting instinct is highly developed, it is energetic and loves outdoor activities. Although it is an excellent hunter, it can also be calm and poised at home. Its balanced nature and ability to adapt to different environments make it an ideal companion for active families.

Life expectancy

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

Exercise and activity needs

The Picardy Spaniel has high exercise and physical activity needs. As a hunting dog, it is energetic and enjoys long walks, running, and retrieval games. It is essential to provide him with daily outings to expend his energy and stimulate his mind. Activities such as swimming, hunting, and interactive games are particularly beneficial for him. A lack of exercise can lead to boredom and destructive behavior. It is therefore best for him to be adopted by active families.

Recommended diet

The feeding of the Picard Spaniel must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity. A high-quality diet, rich in proteins and essential nutrients, is recommended. Premium kibble, 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 level of the dog, so regular consultation with a veterinarian is advised to adjust its diet.

Training and obedience

The education of the Picardy Spaniel should begin at a young age. Intelligent and eager to please, it responds well to consistent and positive training. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective for this breed. Early socialization is crucial to acquaint it 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 Picardy 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 are safe. Teaching children to respect the dog and its needs will contribute to a harmonious and incident-free relationship. Its patience and gentleness make it a precious friend for young children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Picardy Spaniel is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, especially if properly socialized from a young age. It can peacefully coexist with other dogs and even with cats, provided appropriate introductions are made. Its hunting instinct can sometimes manifest itself, but with proper training and supervision, it can learn to live harmoniously with a variety of animals. Its friendly nature facilitates positive interactions with its peers.

Grooming needs

The grooming of the Picardy Spaniel requires regular attention 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. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to check and clean their ears to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and occasional baths will help maintain a clean and healthy coat.

Health

The Picardy Spaniel is generally a robust breed with few major health problems. However, like all breeds, some health issues 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 to ensure a long and healthy life.

Average price

The price of a Picardy Spaniel puppy can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the breeder's reputation, the lineage of the parents, and the geographic 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 Picardy Spaniel include food, veterinary care, grooming, and various accessories. For food, you should budget around 500 to 700 euros (550 to 770 dollars) per year. Routine veterinary care, including vaccines and yearly check-ups, can cost around 300 to 500 euros (330 to 550 dollars). Grooming, depending on the frequency and location, can 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 Picardy Spaniel can be a fun task. For a male, "Mist" could evoke the Picardy marshes where he excels at hunting. "Hunter" highlights his natural skills. "Friend" reflects his loyal and affectionate character. For a female, "Flower" symbolizes her sweetness. "Pearl" evokes her beauty and rarity. "Water" reminds of her aptitude for waterfowl hunting. Other names like "Wood" for her love of nature, "Moon" for her serenity, "River" for her agility, and "Flash" for her speed are also appropriate.

Legislation and regulation

As for legislation and regulation, the Picardy Spaniel is not subject to any particular prohibition. Like all dogs, it is important to comply with local laws regarding registration, vaccination, and pet control. Owners must also ensure that their dog is well educated and socialized to avoid any problematic behavior. Rules may vary depending on the countries and regions, so it is advisable to inquire with local authorities.

Official recognition

The Picardy Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under the standard n°108. The breed is also recognized by other global cynological registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. In France, the official organization responsible for this breed is the Club de l'Épagneul Picard. This organization works on promoting, preserving, and improving the breed through breeding programs and exhibitions.

Pedigrees

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

Destination and usage

The Picardy Spaniel is mainly intended to be a versatile hunting dog, excellent for waterfowl and marshy terrain. Thanks to its exceptional sense of smell and endurance, it is a valuable asset for hunters. However, besides its hunting skills, it also makes an excellent companion dog. Its gentle and affectionate nature, combined with its intelligence, makes it well-suited for family life. It also excels in disciplines such as agility and obedience, highlighting its versatility.

Prohibitions

To date, the Picardy Spaniel is not subject to any specific prohibitions in countries or regions of the world. However, it is essential that owners inquire about local laws regarding dogs, as regulations can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another. Some regions may impose particular restrictions on the ownership of certain dog breeds or implement strict rules regarding the care and control of pets.

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