Pont-audemer spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog pont-audemer spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about pont-audemer 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 suggests, the Pont Audemer Spaniel was created and developed in Normandy, a region of France that is home to the town of Pont Audemer. Like its close cousin the Breton Spaniel, it appeared at the beginning of the 20th century, probably the result of a cross between small local spaniels and the Irish Water Spaniel. Thanks to his talent for swimming, he was mainly used as a hunter of small game in aquatic environments, at ease in marshes as well as in deep water.

Not very widespread outside its native region (barely 300 subjects recorded in France), it was on the verge of extinction after the Second World War, but a few breeders passionate about this rare breed of dog, gave it a second wind and had it recognised definitively by the International Cynological Federation on 15 December 1954. The last update of the official standard in force was published on 06 May 1964.

The Pont Audemer Spaniel is appreciated for its vigour and determination at work, always willing, it will not cease to want to accomplish the missions which are entrusted to it. His morphology is an asset, short, compact, his body is square, his topline is straight, firm and discreetly curved at the level of the loins, his chest is deep and broad, his limbs are robust and particularly agile. The skull is rounded, with a long muzzle and a pronounced, but not excessive, stop.

The coat is curly and thickly textured, especially on the head, a dense coat that covers the base of the neck to the skull. The colour of his coat is brown in several shades, preferably mottled grey. The tail is of medium length, discreetly curved and very hairy.

The character of the Pont Audemer Spaniel is tender and affectionate, not content with being a remarkable workmate, it is also an exceptional domestic dog, remarkably sociable with humans or fellow dogs. Obedient and dynamic, he needs to be active every day. He is an energetic but not excessive companion, calm indoors and demonstrative with his owners.

His stamina is limitless, resistant and tenacious, he adapts to all types of climates and terrain, specialising in hunting ducks in water, he can also be used for other game. In conclusion, the Pont Audemer Spaniel is endearing and deeply gentle, he will bring affection, loyalty and tenderness to all members of the family!

Adult: The Pont Audemer Spaniel will weigh approximately 37.4 to 44 lbs and his height at the withers will be approximately 20.4" to 22.8".

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Origins

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel finds its origins in France, more precisely in Normandy, in the Pont-Audemer region. This ancient breed was developed from the 19th century to meet the needs of local hunters, by crossing French spaniels with Irish water dogs. The result was a dog perfectly adapted to swampy terrains and wet conditions, known for its exceptional abilities in waterfowl hunting. Its rural origins explain its endurance and working ability.

History

The history of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel dates back to the 19th century, in Normandy. The breed was created by crossing local spaniels with Irish water dogs to obtain a hunting dog capable of adapting to the marshy terrain of the region. Appreciated for its effectiveness in waterfowl hunting, the breed has gained increasing popularity. However, both world wars significantly reduced its numbers. Since then, preservation efforts have been undertaken to safeguard this unique and valuable breed.

Standard

The standard of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel highlights its distinctive physical characteristics and natural abilities. It is a medium-sized dog, measuring between 52 and 58 cm at the withers. Its coat is dense, curly, and waterproof, often brown in color with shades of red. Its head is characterized by a lively and intelligent expression, with dark brown eyes. Its ears are long, droopy, and covered in curls. The body is strong and muscular, indicating its strength and endurance.

Physical characteristics

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, with a sturdy and well-proportioned body. It measures between 52 and 58 cm at the withers and weighs between 20 and 27 kg. Its coat is one of its most distinctive features: dense, curly and waterproof, suitable for wet environments. The color of the coat is generally brown with shades of red. Its dark brown eyes express great liveliness. Its ears are long, drooping and lined with tight curls, adding to its unique charm.

Character

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is known for its friendly, loyal, and intelligent character. It is an energetic and enthusiastic dog, particularly devoted to its master. It is also known for its affectionate nature, enjoying spending time with its family and getting along well with children. Its hunting instinct is very developed, making it an excellent companion for outdoor activities. In society, it is generally sociable, although it can sometimes be reserved with strangers. Its gentleness and patience make it an ideal family dog.

Life expectancy

The average life expectancy of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is usually 12 to 14 years. This longevity depends on various factors, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and an active lifestyle. To ensure a long and healthy life for this dog, it is essential to provide daily exercise, good nutrition, and regular vet visits for routine check-ups and vaccinations. Proper management of health and well-being is crucial to maximizing its life expectancy.

Exercise and activity needs

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel has high exercise and physical activity needs. A natural hunting dog, it requires daily extended outings to expend its energy and stimulate its mind. Activities such as running, swimming, and retrieval games are ideal for him. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors. Therefore, it is essential that this dog be adopted by active owners, capable of providing a dynamic and enriching lifestyle.

Recommended diet

The feeding of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity. High quality food, 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. The dietary 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 Pont-Audemer Spaniel should begin from 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 particularly effective for this breed. Early socialization is crucial to familiarize 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 Pont-Audemer 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 Pont-Audemer 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 proper introductions are made. Its hunting instinct may sometimes show, but with adequate training and supervision, it can learn to live in harmony with a variety of animals. Its friendly nature facilitates positive interactions with its peers.

Grooming needs

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel grooming requires regular attention due to its dense and curly coat. A weekly brushing is recommended to avoid knots and tangles, as well as to remove debris and dead hair. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to check and clean its drooping ears to prevent infections. Nails should be clipped regularly, and occasional baths will help keep the coat clean and healthy.

Health

The Pont-Audemer 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 vet 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 Pont-Audemer Spaniel puppy can vary considerably 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 adheres to the breed standards and conducts necessary health tests to ensure the puppies' good health.

Expenses

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

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a Pont-Audemer Spaniel can be a fun task. For a male, "Brume" could refer to his Norman origins often associated with mist. "Marin" recalls his ability for waterfowl hunting. "Chêne" symbolizes his robustness. For a female, "Dune" evokes the Norman coastal landscapes. "Aube" refers to the beautiful hunting mornings. "Perle" highlights her rarity and beauty. Other names such as "Flamme" for her energy, "Sable" for her coat, "Plume" for her lightness, and "Ciel" for her freedom are also appropriate.

Legislation and regulation

Concerning legislation and regulations, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is not subject to any specific prohibitions. As with 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 trained and socialized to prevent any problematic behavior. The rules may vary by country and region, so it is advisable to check with local authorities.

Official recognition

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under the standard number 114. The breed is also recognized by other global canine registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. In France, the official organization that oversees this breed is the Club de l'Épagneul de Pont-Audemer. This organization works on promoting, preserving, and improving the breed through breeding programs and shows.

Pedigrees

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

Destination and usage

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is primarily 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, in addition to its hunting talents, 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, showcasing its versatility.

Prohibitions

To date, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is not subject to specific bans in countries or regions around the world. However, owners should always check local legislation regarding dogs, as regulations can vary significantly from one place to another. Some regions may have specific restrictions on owning certain breeds of dogs or impose strict rules on the care and control of pets.

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