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Dog Breed

Braque Saint-Germain

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Braque Saint-Germain

Origin: France

Breed Group: Sporting / Pointing Dogs

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium to Large

Height: Male Height: 22–24 inches (56–62 cm), Female Height: 21–23 inches (54–59 cm)

Weight: Male Weight: 45–60 lbs (20–27 kg), Female Weight: 40–55 lbs (18–25 kg)

Coat Type: Short, smooth

Coat Colors: White with orange markings (especially on ears and body spots)

Grooming Needs: Low

Shedding: Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Gentle, friendly, obedient, intelligent, sociable

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, ear infections, allergies (generally a healthy breed)

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for active medium-to-large breeds; monitor weight with regular activity

Exercise Needs: High – needs daily runs, games, and fieldwork; thrives with active families or hunters

Space Requirements: Needs a home with a yard or access to open space; not ideal for apartment living

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: Moderate

Socialization Tips: Eager to please and responsive to positive training; ideal for both beginners and experienced handlers

Good with Children: Yes, especially if socialized early

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, especially if socialized early

Good with Other Pets: Yes, but may show hunting instincts toward smaller animals

Training: Eager to please and responsive to positive training; ideal for both beginners and experienced handlers

Description

The Braque Saint-Germain is a graceful, versatile pointing breed from France, known for its elegance, keen nose, and balanced temperament. Originally bred for pointing and retrieving game, this breed combines work ethic in the field with a gentle and affectionate nature at home. Its short, smooth coat is low-maintenance and sheds moderately year-round. They are highly trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement and consistent routines. With their high energy, they thrive in active environments that provide daily exercise, structured training, and opportunities for field work or play.

History

The Braque Saint-Germain is a medium-sized pointing dog breed originating from France, specifically developed in the Saint-Germain area near Paris. Its history dates back to the early 19th century, when it was created by crossing local Braque Français with English Pointers.

Key Points

Origins: The breed's development began around 1830, when King Charles X received a pair of English Pointers as a gift. The female was bred with a Braque Français to create the foundation stock for the Braque Saint-Germain.
Development: The breed was refined in the royal kennels at Compiègne and gained popularity as both a hunting dog and a show dog. It was highly valued for its hunting prowess and elegant appearance.
Historical Use: Traditionally used for hunting small game, the Braque Saint-Germain excelled due to its strong nose and ability to point and retrieve. It was also a popular show dog, often exhibited at early French dog shows.
Recognition: The breed faced significant decline during World War I and II, and its numbers never fully recovered. It is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the United Kennel Club (UKC).
Today, the Braque Saint-Germain remains a rare breed, cherished for its intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. It is valued as both a hunting companion and a family pet, though it is rarely found outside France.

Ideal Owner

Active families or hunters seeking a devoted, athletic companion