Braque D'auvergne
- Medium
- FCI Group 7 (Pointing Dogs)
The Braque d'Auvergne is a medium-sized French pointer, sturdy and good-natured. Developed more than two centuries ago, the breed pairs an all-day hunting drive with an affectionate temperament suited to active homes.
- Height
- 20 to 26
- inches at the shoulder
- Weight
- 44 to 60
- pounds, adult
- Life expectancy
- 10 to 12
- years, median 11
- Senior from
- 8.2
- years, about
Senior starts in the last quarter of a breed's expected lifespan, following the 2019 AAHA canine life stage guidelines. Individual dogs vary.
About the breed
- Origin
- France
- Recognized
- 1955
The Braque d'Auvergne is a medium-sized pointer with a strong, sturdy build, standing 20 to 26 inches tall and weighing 44 to 60 pounds. Built to cover long distances and work all day in rugged terrain, it is a natural hunter with a keen sense of smell.
These are good-natured, intelligent dogs that serve well as both hunting partners and family companions. They are affectionate and enjoy attention. They also typically get along well with other dogs.
The breed originated in the Cantal region of southern France more than two centuries ago. As the story goes, the Knights of Malta brought their dogs to the Auvergne region after Napoleon captured Malta and dissolved the order, then continued developing them as strong, energetic hunters.
Like many breeds, the Braque d'Auvergne faced extinction after World War II. Andre De Tournay found 20 dogs and used them as the foundation stock to save the breed, which was recognized in 1955.
Care
The routines that matter most for this breed. Open one at a time.
Nutrition
Braque d'Auvergnes do well on a high-quality diet formulated for their life stage, whether puppy, adult, or senior. To help them hold a healthy weight, measure portions and watch food intake to avoid overfeeding. As a guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
Because of their deep chests, these dogs face a greater risk of bloat, also known as twisted stomach. A few habits can help lower that risk:
- Split meals into several feedings a day.
- Use a bowl designed to slow eating.
- Avoid feeding right before or after vigorous activity.
These are general feeding practices, not a substitute for veterinary advice. Ask your veterinarian about other approaches, including surgical options.
Grooming
The Braque's short coat is relatively easy to maintain. Weekly brushing to remove loose fur and the occasional bath usually keep it looking healthy.
Overgrown nails can cause pain and lead to trouble running or walking, so keep them in check.
Beyond professional cleanings, set up an at-home routine with regular teeth brushing and veterinarian-recommended dental chews.
Exercise
This breed is energetic. Braques can hunt all day, and when they are not hunting they need plenty of outlets to burn energy. Brisk walks, runs, hikes, and backyard games all fit the bill.
Introduced to water young, they make excellent swimmers. Their athletic ability also suits them for dog sports such as agility, rally, tracking, and flyball, which give both body and mind a workout.
Training
Training for a Braque d'Auvergne should develop the dog's natural qualities progressively and exclude brutality. The breed is considered docile and devoted, qualities associated with easy education, though individual dogs may still differ in how readily they learn. Treats, toys, or other suitable rewards can reinforce a response after it has been cued and marked. Everyday household rules should prioritize stop and recall cues for safety, and a canine club can provide further training help.
During its first three months, a puppy can encounter a range of people, animals, stimuli, and environments, with the pace reduced if excessive fear, withdrawal, or avoidance shows that the puppy is becoming overstimulated.
Health conditions
2 conditions are documented for the Braque D'auvergne.
A predisposition is not a diagnosis. Ask your vet which screenings make sense for your dog's age.
- Cherry EyeEye
- Elbow DysplasiaBone & Joint
Sources
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