Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison

Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed ComparisonBoth Petit Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) are originated from France. Both Petit Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) are of same height. Petit Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 35 kg / 77 pounds lesser than Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type). Both Petit Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) has almost same life span. Petit Bleu de Gascogne may have less litter size than Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type). Both Petit Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) requires Low maintenance.

History

petit bleu de gascogne - historyThe Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a scenthound dog originating in France where he has always been used as a hunting dog.

The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a descendant of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. This dog was developed around the 16th century already, with the numbers of the dog being reduced at the time of the World Wars.

They’re quite well known in France, but not in any other parts of the world. The dog is an official member of the UKC, and it was in 1991 that the dog joined their scent hound group.

braque francais pyrenean type - historyThe Braque Francais Gascognes and the Braque Francais Pyrenees are two alike dogs that are in reality separate breeds. The Pyrenees is not as rare as his larger brother, Gascognes. Around since the 15th century at least, not mush is really known about their origins. Because the Braque Francais was exported or taken to so many different countries in the 15th-18th centuries, a lot of information regarding the origins of the breeds were lost. There was a major study done in the 19th century that showed the two dogs came from very different blood lines. It is known that in this timeframe there was an acute need for a dog that was better than the current hunting breeds. This dog needed to be able to point, track, retrieve and flush.

With no authenticated story of origin, many myths have grown up in the vacuum. The most common belief is that the Chien d’Oysel, an ancient spaniel breed that was medium sized with brown or white fur and brown markings, is an ancestor of the Braque Francais and local hunting dogs. To make the Gascognes larger and stronger than the Pyrenees, local scent hounds were also crossed with these dogs. The Pyrenees does not have these scent hounds in their background.

Until the late 1800’s, there was only one type and one breed of Braque Francais. But when the breed was no longer the dogs of a nobility, the average hunter needed a smaller dog. Urbanization following the French Revolution added to this trend and the Pyrenees Mountain hunters crossed the Gascognes with smaller scent hounds and pointers. Thus, they created the Braque Francais Pyrenees and each dog became its own breed in 1920.

The Braque Francais breed club, including standards for both breeds was established in 1850 with the standards established in 1880. This acceptance was then followed by registration of both breeds in the International Kennel Club (FCI) and the French Kennel Club. Canada recognizes only the Gascoigne and the United Kennel Club (UKC) of the United States, recognized both. Neither breed has been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The Second World War was brutal to both types of the Braque Francais, but the Pyrenees have surpassed their sister breed and are the only one that has found its way to North America. The importers have started a breeding program in Canada. Later a few were imported to the States. There are currently at least four breeders in North America – 2 in the U.S. and 2 in Canada. It is thought that there are less than 200 Braque Francais Pyrenees living in North America.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
Origin:
France
France
Height Male:
52 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
47 - 58 cm
18 - 23 inches
Height Female:
52 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
Weight Male:
15 - 20 kg
33 - 45 pounds
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 20 kg
33 - 45 pounds
32 - 52 kg
70 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 13 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 7
3 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
None
French Pointing Dog - Pyrenean Type; Braque Francais, de Petite Taille
Colors Available:
Mottled black, giving appearance of slate grey or blue
mottled brown Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white. With or without ticking or roaning or tan markings
Coat:
Short and smooth
fine and short
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

petit bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a medium to large sized dog which stands at between 52 to 58cm in height at the withers and weighs in the region of 18 to 22kg.

In fact, the only difference between the Petit Bleu de Gascogne and the original Bleu de Gascogne is its size. They’re well proportioned dogs and they have lean, muscular bodies. The head is long and slim, the nose black, the expression gentle and unthreatening.

Most times you’ll find a black patch on each side of the head which extends to the ears so that the ears are essentially black. The patch also extends to around the eyes.

The dense, short coat is a typical trademark feature, with the color of the coat being white mottled with black so that the general appearance is a slate blue color. The dog usually has tan eyebrows over each eye. The tail is long and the ears long and floppy.

Temperament:

Kept essentially as a pet today, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne has kept its hunting instincts and is an excellent scent-dog, being able to follow a scent for miles. It is why you want to ensure that as a pet, you take him on regular walks, every day in fact. He just loves to get out, and given the chance to run and chase a scent.

Apart from his hunting skills, he still makes an excellent pet, being loyal and loving with his human family. He is looked upon as being amicable and well-balanced, getting on well with children as well as dogs in the home.

They’re quite laid-back and friendly, so they don’t make particularly good watchdogs. They are independent and intelligent and will respond well to training and socialization.

braque francais pyrenean type puppy - descriptionThe Braque Francais breeds are medium sized dogs with the Pyrenean standing 10 centimeters shorter than the Gascogne. They have a, white or chestnut brown coat with brown spots and a brown head. The Pyrenees has a head that is broader and ears that are not as long as the Gascogne. Their muzzle is narrower. He is strong, tall with hanging lips and square muzzles.

Characteristics

petit bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThe Petit Bleu de Gascogne just loves being outdoors, chasing the scent of something interesting. He is in his element outside as a hunting or tracking dog.

Training and socialization will always be a good idea for these dogs, as once on the scent he may be inclined to ignore your calls and not return easily.

They’re easy-going dogs, loving be around their human family. Provide well for him and you will find that he makes an amicable, loyal and devoted companion.

braque francais pyrenean type dog - characteristicsThis is a sociable, lovable, friendly breed. They are gentle and docile dogs that want only to please you. They like children as well as adults and will never be a guard dog as they are friendly to strangers as well. The Braque Francais Pyrenees is affectionate while being highly skilled hunters. They are prone to severe separation anxiety if left alone for long. They might even have a tendency toward shyness.

Health Problems

petit bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsThe Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a healthy dog with no unusual health problems being documented. With good care, he can generally live to be 11, 12 or 13 years of age. Nonetheless it is a good idea to be aware of some of the horrible dog illnesses that can strike, even though it is highly unlikely.

Bloat:

Your Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a deep chested dog and this simply means it can develop bloat. A swollen stomach, lethargy and trying to vomit are just some of the signs of this ailment which can become deadly if not attended to. The stomach can twist with bloat and this is when things get serious.

Ear Infections:

Floppy eared dogs are always at risk of ear infections and these can be painful for your pet. You will notice him scratching at his ears or shaking his head and then its time to investigate further for redness or discharge.

braque francais pyrenean type puppies - health problemsThe breed of Braque Francais in both its incarnations is generally a pretty healthy dog. They are prone to several issues including dysplasia of the elbow and hip, aortic stenosis, some eye issues and patellar luxation. The eye issues are around the lids and include ectropion and entropion along with cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). These issues are not avoidable, but the risk can be reduced even more by breeder testing of parents of any litter and then test the litter. Both the OFA and CERF should conduct tests for the dysplasia (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and eyes (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

petit bleu de gascogne dogs - caringLuckily the Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a fairly low maintenance dog who will basically require a good brush twice a week to rid him of loose hairs and to keep his coat nice and shiny.

Take the time while brushing him to test for any unusual lumps on his body. Check inside his ears too, because as a floppy eared dog, there can be a build-up of wax, debris and dampness and these can all cause bacteria and an ear infection.

Check his eyes too as well as inside his mouth. He can’t tell you when he’s got terrible tooth ache from a rotting tooth and you need to check for this. Bad teeth can cause all kinds of health issues.

Diet:

There are some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods on the market which have got the vitamins and minerals your pet needs. Some of the lower quality foods have got bad ingredients such as colorants and fillers and these can actually be toxic for your pet.

It’s always wise to add a little bit of home-made food into your pet’s diet and then simple, nutritious foods such as boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach can do him the world of good. Just chop it up and add it into the dried kibble every other night when you feed your pet. A bit of raw meat occasionally can also be healthy for him.

Always ensure there’s a bowl of fresh, cool water available to him.

Ensure your pet has a nice comfortable, dry place to sleep.

Never ever leave your pet alone in a hot car.

Make sure your puppy has his puppy vaccines to avoid some life-threatening diseases.

Have your dog spayed or neutered to avoid unwanted puppies.

Feeding

braque francais pyrenean type dogs - caringThis breed need a high energy food including raw meat such as chicken, fish, and beef. If feeding kibble, they need about 2.5 cups per day.

Health issues

Prone to inflammation and infections of the ears as they are long and floppy. Clean them regularly. As previously mention eye disorders, joint dysplasia and bloat.

Exercise and games

The Braque Francais Pyrenees is a fairly versatile hunting dog. They can hunt on all types of terrain by trailing, flushing and retrieving. They are quick and move quickly without actually sprinting. This dog needs serious exercise every day. They will walk or jog with you. They will run along side your bike. Whatever you choose to do, do it for an hour a day. Don’t make couch potatoes out of this breed. It will not turn out well if you do. They need a place where they can play off leash as well, such as a large yard or a dog park.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  3. Puli vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  4. Porcelaine vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  5. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  6. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  8. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  9. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  10. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  11. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  12. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  13. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  14. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  15. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  16. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  20. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  21. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  22. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  24. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Jamthund - Breed Comparison
  25. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Karelian Bear Dog - Breed Comparison
  26. East Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  27. French Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  28. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  29. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  30. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  31. English Water Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  32. Field Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  33. Curly Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  34. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  35. Braque Francais vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  36. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  37. Shikoku vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  38. Slovakian Hound vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  39. Small Munsterlander vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  40. Sussex Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  41. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  42. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  43. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  44. Wetterhoun vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  45. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  46. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  47. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  48. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  49. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  50. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds