Saint-usuge spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog saint-usuge spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about saint-usuge 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

The Saint-Usuge Spaniel is not very widespread outside its native region, but it originates from the French region of Bresse. Doctor Longin, editor of the first breed standard, claims that it has known ancestors since the 16th century, while other breeders and enthusiasts suggest that it is the original Spaniel and that it has not undergone any modification since its creation.

The armed conflicts that took place during the first half of the 20th century almost got the better of him, indeed, he was on the verge of extinction after the Second World War, but thanks to the support of several passionate breeders, notably Robert Billard, the Bresse Spaniel has seen its numbers rise each year.

The first breed club was founded in 1990, thanks to the efforts of Abbé Billard and Serge Bey from 1950 onwards, the Saint-Usuge Spaniel was saved and a few decades later obtained official recognition in France by the "Livre des Origines Françaises" (LOF), in January 2003. To this day, the Saint-Usuge Spaniel is still not recognized by the international cynological federation.

A powerful pointing dog, it is a formidable tracker with a particularly well developed sense of smell. Its medio-linear morphological structure and its great flexibility allow it to adapt to all types of terrain.

Slightly longer than he is tall, his body is rectangular in shape, despite his well developed muscles, ample chest and full chest, he retains exemplary agility and suppleness, combined with a remarkably elegant gait. The head is always well proportioned to the body, the skull is rounded and the muzzle moderately long.

The coat is short, thick and slightly wavy in places, mainly brown in colour. The tail is long, reaching to the hock, fringed and furnished with a beautiful plume.

The character of the St. Usuge Spaniel, like its close cousin the Breton, is gentle and affectionate, not content with being a remarkable workmate, it is also an exceptional domestic dog, sociable with everyone and pleasant to live with.

Docile and dynamic, a minimum of daily activity is a vital need for him, active but not excessive, he will channel himself indoors and remain calm in the company of his owners by the fireplace.

His stamina is limitless, resistant and tenacious, he adapts to all types of climates and terrains, specialised in duck hunting, he can without difficulty be used for other game. In conclusion, the Bresse Spaniel is endearing and deeply gentle, he will bring you satisfaction, loyalty and tenderness in all circumstances.

Adult: The St. Usuge Spaniel will weigh approximately 50.5 to 55.1 lbs and his height at the withers will be approximately 17.7" to 20.8" for males and 16.1" to 19.3" for females.

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Origins

The Epagneul de Saint-Usuge is an ancient breed originating from the region of Saint-Usuge, in Burgundy, France. Developed in the 17th century, this breed was mainly used for hunting, particularly feathered game. The monks of the monastery of Saint-Usuge played a crucial role in the development of this breed by crossing various local spaniels to obtain an agile and efficient dog. Today, this breed is appreciated for its versatility in hunting and its gentle nature.

History

The history of the Saint-Usuge Spaniel dates back to the 17th century in Burgundy, France. This breed was developed by the monks of the Saint-Usuge monastery, who crossed local spaniels to create a versatile hunting dog. Over the centuries, the breed nearly disappeared, but conservation efforts in the 1980s helped restore the Saint-Usuge Spaniel. Today, thanks to these initiatives, the breed is recognized and appreciated for both its hunting skills and its role as a companion dog.

Standard

The standard of the Saint-Usuge Spaniel defines a medium-sized, elegant and muscular dog. Males measure between 45 and 50 cm at the withers, while females are slightly smaller. The coat is dense and wavy, usually brown with shades of fire or red. The head is proportionate, with expressive and intelligent eyes of dark brown color. The ears are long, drooping and well covered with hair. The body is well proportioned with a deep chest, sturdy limbs and a tail carried like a saber.

Physical characteristics

The Saint-Usuge Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, measuring between 45 and 50 cm at the withers for males and slightly less for females. Its coat is dense and slightly wavy, brown in color with shades of fire or red. Its eyes are dark brown, expressive and intelligent. Its long, drooping ears are furry. The body is well-proportioned, with a deep chest and strong limbs. Its tail is usually carried in saber, adding to its elegant and balanced appearance.

Character

The St. Usuge Spaniel is known for its gentle, affectionate, and loyal character. It is an intelligent, curious, and easy to train dog, making it an excellent family companion. It is sociable and gets along well with children and other animals. Its hunting instinct remains present, making it also very active and energetic. It enjoys outdoor activities and interactive games. Despite its energy, it can be calm and laid back at home, enjoying moments of rest with its family.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the St. Usuge Spaniel is generally 12 to 14 years. To maximize this longevity, it is essential to provide balanced nutrition, regular veterinary care, and an active lifestyle. Owners must ensure that their dog receives enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Regular veterinary visits are crucial to quickly detect and treat any potential diseases, thus contributing to a long and healthy life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Saint-Usuge Spaniel has high exercise and physical activity needs. As a 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. A lack of exercise can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors. Therefore, it is essential that this dog be adopted by active owners, capable of offering him a dynamic and enriching lifestyle.

Recommended diet

The feeding of the Saint-Usuge Spaniel must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity. A high-quality diet, rich in protein 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 prevent overweight. 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 training of the Saint-Usuge 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 praise, 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 Saint-Usuge 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 Saint-Usuge Spaniel is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, especially if properly socialized from a young age. He can live peacefully with other dogs and even cats, provided appropriate introductions are made. His hunting instinct may sometimes manifest itself, but with proper training and supervision, he can learn to coexist harmoniously with a variety of animals. His friendly nature facilitates positive interactions with his fellow dogs.

Grooming needs

Grooming the Saint-Usuge Spaniel requires regular attention due to its dense and slightly wavy coat. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and matting, as well as to remove debris and dead hair. More frequent brushing may be needed during shedding periods. It is also important to check and clean its droopy ears to prevent infections. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and occasional baths will help keep the coat clean and healthy.

Health

The St. Usuge Spaniel is generally a sturdy 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 Saint-Usuge 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 follows the breed's standards and conducts necessary health tests to ensure the puppies' good health.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Saint-Usuge 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 annual check-ups, may 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 about 100 to 200 euros (110 to 220 dollars).

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a Saint-Usuge Spaniel can be a fun task. For a male, "Étoile" could reflect his shiny and joyful nature. "Bacchus" could be a tribute to the Burgundy region, famous for its wines. "Forest" evokes his love of nature. For a female, "Gaïa" reminds of the goddess of the earth. "Perle" symbolizes her rare beauty. "Aube" refers to the beautiful hunting mornings. Other names like "Brume" for her discretion, "Rivière" for her agility, "Soleil" for her playful temperament, and "Plume" for her lightness are also appropriate.

Legislation and regulation

As far as legislation and regulation are concerned, the Saint-Usuge Spaniel is not subject to any specific prohibition. Like all dogs, it is important to comply with local laws regarding registration, vaccination, and control of pets. Owners must also ensure that their dog is well trained and socialized to avoid any problematic behavior. Rules may vary by country and region, so it is advisable to inquire with local authorities.

Official recognition

The Saint-Usuge Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard No. 218. 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 de Saint-Usuge. This organization works on promoting, preserving, and improving the breed through breeding programs and exhibitions.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees of the Saint-Usuge 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 exhibition successes of its ancestors. In France, the Saint-Usuge Spaniel Club and the Société Centrale Canine (SCC) are main 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 Saint-Usuge Spaniel is primarily intended to be a versatile hunting dog, excellent for game birds and difficult terrains. Thanks to its exceptional sense of smell and endurance, it is a valuable asset for hunters. However, in addition to its hunting skills, it also makes an excellent companion dog. Its gentle and affectionate nature, combined with its intelligence, makes it suitable for family life. It also excels in disciplines such as agility and obedience, showcasing its versatility.

Prohibitions

To date, the Saint-Usuge Spaniel is not subject to specific prohibitions in countries or regions around the world. However, owners should always inquire about local dog laws, as regulations may vary significantly from one place to another. Some regions may have specific restrictions on owning certain dog breeds or impose strict rules on the keeping and control of pets.

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