Mike Clinton
Introduction to the Braque d’Auvergne breed
The Braque d’Auvergne, also known as the Auvergne Pointer, is a medium-sized, versatile hunting dog breed that originated in France. The breed is known for its keen sense of smell, endurance, and ability to point and retrieve game. These dogs are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate, making them excellent companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Braque d’Auvergnes have distinct physical characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. They have a muscular build with a broad head and long ears that hang close to the face. Their coats are short and dense, and they have a distinctive white coat with black mottling or ticking. In this article, we will discuss the breed standard for the Braque d’Auvergne, including their physical characteristics, temperament, and ideal living conditions.
The history of the Braque d’Auvergne
The Braque d’Auvergne has a long history that dates back to the 16th century. The breed was developed in the Auvergne region of France, where it was used for hunting a variety of game, including birds, rabbits, and wild boar. The breed was nearly extinct during World War II, but a group of dedicated breeders worked to revive the breed in the 1950s. Today, the Braque d’Auvergne is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a member of the Sporting Group.
Physical characteristics of the Braque d’Auvergne
The Braque d’Auvergne is a medium-sized dog breed that typically weighs between 55 and 66 pounds and stands 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular build with a broad head, strong neck, and long ears that hang close to the face. Their coats are short and dense, with a distinctive white coat that is heavily mottled or ticked with black. They have dark brown eyes and a friendly expression.
The ideal weight and height of a Braque d’Auvergne
The ideal weight for a male Braque d’Auvergne is between 55 and 66 pounds, while females typically weigh between 44 and 55 pounds. The ideal height at the shoulder for both males and females is between 22 and 24 inches.
Coat color and texture of the Braque d’Auvergne
The Braque d’Auvergne has a short, dense coat that is predominantly white with black mottling or ticking. The coat texture is fine and soft, and the black mottling should be evenly distributed all over the body.
The temperament of a Braque d’Auvergne
Braque d’Auvergnes are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate dogs that make excellent family pets. They are known for their gentle nature and are great with children. They have a strong hunting instinct and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also great watchdogs and will alert their owners if they sense any danger.
The ideal living conditions for a Braque d’Auvergne
Braque d’Auvergnes are active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are best suited for families that have a yard for them to run and play in and can take them on daily walks or hikes. They are adaptable dogs that can live in both urban and rural environments, but they do require plenty of socialization to prevent them from becoming anxious or aggressive.
Training and exercise requirements for a Braque d’Auvergne
Braque d’Auvergnes are intelligent dogs that are relatively easy to train. However, they do have a strong hunting instinct and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are best suited for owners who have experience with active dog breeds and can provide them with the training and exercise they need to thrive.
Health issues commonly seen in Braque d’Auvergnes
Braque d’Auvergnes are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and skin allergies. It is important to have them regularly checked by a veterinarian and to keep up with their vaccinations and preventative care.
Conclusion and summary of breed standards
The Braque d’Auvergne is a versatile hunting dog breed that is known for its keen sense of smell, endurance, and ability to point and retrieve game. They are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate dogs that make excellent family pets. The breed standard for the Braque d’Auvergne includes physical characteristics such as their size, coat color, and texture, as well as their temperament, ideal living conditions, and exercise requirements. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Braque d’Auvergne can be a wonderful addition to any active family.