Pont-audemer Spaniel
- Medium
- Foundation Stock Service
Meet the Pont-Audemer Spaniel, a rare French water dog crowned by a curly crest with silky, wig-like ears. This affectionate, gentle gun dog is as happy working the marsh as it is curling up at home with its family.
- Height
- 20 to 23
- inches at the shoulder
- Weight
- 33 to 48
- pounds, adult
- Males 38 to 48, females 33 to 40 lb
- Life expectancy
- 12 to 14
- years, median 13
- Senior from
- 9.8
- 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
- Temperament
- Affectionate, gentle, fun-loving
- Coat
- Curly, medium
- Origin
- France
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel, nicknamed the Clown of the Marsh, is a rare medium-sized water dog from France. A curly crest covers the top of the head, and long ears trimmed with wavy, silky hair frame the face like a period wig. The dense, curly coat lets this dog work in cold water and push through thick brush.
the Pont-Audemer is a hunting dog. It was developed to hunt waterfowl in the marsh, so it specializes in water work while also pointing and flushing, which places it among the pointing breeds in some registries. It tracks well, searches the field with drive, and retrieves on both land and water.
By nature it is affectionate, gentle, and fun-loving, with the easygoing temperament shared by many spaniels. Its instinctive caution should not be mistaken for timidity, and it thrives on steady, sincere attention from its family. Hardy and faithful, it is happy to rise before dawn for a hunt and just as happy to come home and settle in with its people.
Temperament and needs
Scored 1 to 5 for the breed overall. Individual dogs vary.
- Affectionate with family5 out of 5
- Good with young children4 out of 5
- Good with other dogs5 out of 5
- Openness to strangers3 out of 5
- Playfulness4 out of 5
- Watchdog and protective nature1 out of 5
- Adaptability5 out of 5
- Trainability4 out of 5
- Energy level3 out of 5
- Mental stimulation needs3 out of 5
- Barking level1 out of 5
- Shedding3 out of 5
- Grooming frequency3 out of 5
- Drooling1 out of 5
Care
The routines that matter most for this breed. Open one at a time.
Nutrition
Feed a well-balanced diet matched to your dog's age and activity. Pont-Audemers do well on food formulated for their size, activity level, and life stage, such as puppy, adult, or senior.
This breed can be more prone to bloat (also called twisted stomach) than some others. As a precaution, split daily food into several smaller meals, use a bowl designed to slow eating, and avoid feeding right before or after hard activity. Ask your veterinarian about additional steps that fit your dog.
Every dog can become overweight, so keep an eye on your Pont-Audemer's intake. Portion meals with a measuring cup rather than free-feeding, and keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories.
Grooming
The curly coat does well with weekly brushing, which keeps mats and tangles from forming. The coat and skin stay healthiest when clean, and the curls hold their crispness if you avoid over-shampooing. Bathe with a gentle dog shampoo when needed, which can be often if your dog spends time in mud and water.
The long ears are prone to infection, so check them weekly and after field work for dirt or wax buildup and clean them as needed. Trim the nails weekly and provide regular dental cleanings.
Exercise
The Pont-Audemer needs plenty of daily exercise along with mental work, and that can come from many activities. When it is not hunting, it enjoys brisk walks, hikes, and runs in the park.
Swimming and games of fetch are strong outlets that let this water dog use its natural talents. A fully fenced yard helps keep it safe, since a sharp nose can pull it off after an interesting scent. After a good workout, it is just as content to settle in and cuddle.
Training
Pont-Audemer Spaniels are intelligent with sharp instincts, and they do best with a handler who understands and respects that. Pont-Audemer Spaniels are hard-working, responsive, and eager to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement with treats and favorite toys.
They are natural bird dogs with agility and drive. Use gradual training for game, shot, and dog sports.
Early socialization matters for any dog. Introducing your pup to different people, pets, and places while young helps them grow into a well-mannered adult.
Health conditions
2 conditions are documented for the Pont-audemer Spaniel.
A predisposition is not a diagnosis. Ask your vet which screenings make sense for your dog's age.
- Non-Color-Linked Follicular DysplasiaSkin & Connective Tissue
- Urate Kidney & Bladder StonesUrinary & Reproductive
Sources
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