Introduction: Blue Picardy Spaniels

Blue Picardy Spaniels are a versatile hunting breed that originated in the Picardy region of France. They are known for their distinctive blue-grey coat and their natural hunting abilities, making them popular among hunters and enthusiasts around the world.

These dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families with children. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them ideal for a wide range of tasks beyond hunting, including agility competitions, search and rescue, and therapy work.

Where did Blue Picardy Spaniels originate?

Blue Picardy Spaniels originated in the Picardy region of northern France, where they were bred for their hunting abilities. They are believed to be a cross between local French spaniel breeds, as well as English Setters and Gordon Setters.

The breed was first introduced to North America in the 1980s, where they quickly gained popularity among hunters and dog enthusiasts. Today, Blue Picardy Spaniels are recognized by the United Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, and continue to be a beloved hunting and companion breed around the world.

The evolution of Blue Picardy Spaniels

Blue Picardy Spaniels evolved over centuries of selective breeding for hunting ability and temperament. The breed’s ancestors were likely local French spaniels, which were crossed with English Setters and Gordon Setters to improve their hunting abilities and to create a more versatile hunting dog.

Over time, breeders focused on developing a dog that was not only skilled in the field, but also had a gentle and affectionate nature that made them suitable for family life. Today’s Blue Picardy Spaniels are a testament to this centuries-long process of careful breeding and evolution.

Blue Picardy Spaniels: A versatile hunting breed

Blue Picardy Spaniels are known for their versatility in the field, and are skilled at hunting a wide range of game, including upland birds, waterfowl, and rabbits. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, making them ideal hunting companions.

In addition to their hunting abilities, Blue Picardy Spaniels are also suitable for a range of other activities, including agility competitions, search and rescue work, and therapy dog work. Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them a great choice for families with children.

How did Blue Picardy Spaniels get their name?

The Blue Picardy Spaniel gets its name from the region of France where it originated, Picardy. The "blue" in their name refers to their distinctive blue-grey coat, which sets them apart from other spaniel breeds.

While the origins of their coat color are not entirely clear, it is believed to be the result of a genetic mutation that occurred in the breed’s ancestors. Today, the Blue Picardy Spaniel’s unique coat is one of its most distinctive and recognizable features.

The role of Blue Picardy Spaniels in the world wars

During World War I and World War II, Blue Picardy Spaniels played an important role as messenger dogs and battlefield companions. Their intelligence, loyalty, and trainability made them ideal for these tasks, and they were widely used by both French and British armies.

After the wars, many of these dogs were left behind or abandoned, and the breed suffered a decline in numbers. However, dedicated breeders worked to revive the breed, and today Blue Picardy Spaniels can be found around the world, both as hunting dogs and as beloved family pets.

The decline and revival of Blue Picardy Spaniels

In the years following World War II, the popularity of Blue Picardy Spaniels declined sharply, and the breed nearly disappeared altogether. However, dedicated breeders in France and Canada worked to revive the breed, and the Blue Picardy Spaniel is now recognized by several international kennel clubs.

Today, the breed remains relatively rare, but continues to gain in popularity among hunters and dog enthusiasts around the world. Its distinctive coat and versatile hunting abilities make it a favorite among those who are looking for a dedicated hunting companion.

Characteristics of Blue Picardy Spaniels

Blue Picardy Spaniels are a medium-sized breed, standing between 22 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighing between 45 and 60 pounds. They are known for their distinctive blue-grey coat, which is long and wavy, and their expressive amber or hazel eyes.

In addition to their hunting abilities, Blue Picardy Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, making them ideal family pets and therapy dogs.

Training and caring for Blue Picardy Spaniels

Like all dogs, Blue Picardy Spaniels require regular exercise and a balanced diet in order to stay healthy and happy. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, making them ideal for owners who are willing to invest time and effort in their training.

In addition to regular exercise and training, Blue Picardy Spaniels require regular grooming to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny. This includes regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting, as well as regular bathing to keep their coat clean and free of dirt and debris.

Conclusion: Blue Picardy Spaniels’ enduring legacy

Blue Picardy Spaniels have a long and fascinating history, dating back centuries to their origins in the Picardy region of France. They have evolved over time to become one of the most versatile hunting breeds in the world, while also maintaining their gentle and affectionate nature that makes them ideal family pets.

Despite a decline in popularity in the years following World War II, the Blue Picardy Spaniel has endured thanks to the dedication of breeders around the world. Today, this unique and beloved breed continues to thrive as a hunting dog and as a cherished member of many families around the world.