Mike Clinton
Introduction: Blue Picardy Spaniel vs. Picardy Spaniel
Spaniels are a popular breed of dog that are known for their hunting and retrieving abilities. The Blue Picardy Spaniel and the Picardy Spaniel are two breeds of spaniels that are often confused due to their similarities in appearance. However, they have distinct differences in terms of their breeding history, physical appearance, temperament, exercise requirements, and grooming needs.
Breeding History of Both Spaniel Breeds
The Picardy Spaniel is an old breed that originated in the Picardy region of France. It is believed to be a descendant of the old French Spaniel. The Blue Picardy Spaniel, on the other hand, is a relatively new breed that was developed in the early 20th century by crossing Picardy Spaniels with blue-grey Setters. The Blue Picardy Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed in 1938, whereas the Picardy Spaniel was recognized in 1921.
Physical Appearance: Blue vs. Picardy Spaniel
Both breeds are similar in size, standing at around 22-24 inches and weighing between 50-60 pounds. However, the Blue Picardy Spaniel has a blue-grey coat that is longer and thicker than the Picardy Spaniel’s black or liver-colored coat. The Blue Picardy Spaniel also has distinctive feathering on its legs and tail. Both breeds have long droopy ears and a long nose, which make them excellent scent hounds.
Temperament and Personality Traits
The Picardy Spaniel is known for being calm, gentle, and affectionate. They are great with children and make excellent family pets. The Blue Picardy Spaniel is also known for being affectionate but can be reserved around strangers. They are highly active and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Trainability and Exercise Requirements
Both breeds are highly trainable and can be easily trained for hunting and retrieving. However, the Blue Picardy Spaniel requires more exercise than the Picardy Spaniel due to their higher energy levels. They require at least one hour of exercise per day and enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and fetching.
Health Concerns and Lifespan
Both breeds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. The Picardy Spaniel is prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. The Blue Picardy Spaniel is also prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems but is at a higher risk for developing skin allergies due to their longer coat. The lifespan for both breeds is around 12-14 years.
Grooming Needs for Both Breeds
The Picardy Spaniel has a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. They only need to be brushed once a week to maintain their coat’s shine. The Blue Picardy Spaniel, on the other hand, requires more grooming due to its longer and thicker coat. They need to be brushed at least twice a week to prevent matting and tangling.
Shedding and Allergy Considerations
Both breeds shed moderately, but the Blue Picardy Spaniel sheds more due to its thicker coat. The Picardy Spaniel is considered hypoallergenic and is a good choice for people with allergies. However, the Blue Picardy Spaniel may not be suitable for people with allergies due to their shedding and longer coat.
Common Uses for Blue vs. Picardy Spaniels
Both breeds are excellent hunting and retrieving dogs and are popular choices for hunters. They are also great family pets due to their affectionate and gentle nature. Additionally, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is used in search and rescue operations due to their excellent scenting ability.
Choosing the Right Spaniel for Your Lifestyle
When choosing between the Blue Picardy Spaniel and the Picardy Spaniel, it is important to consider your lifestyle and needs. If you have a high-energy lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities, the Blue Picardy Spaniel may be a better fit for you. If you have a more relaxed lifestyle and are looking for a family pet, the Picardy Spaniel may be a better choice. It is important to research both breeds thoroughly and meet with breeders before making a decision.