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Dog Breed

Blue Picardy Spaniel

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Blue Picardy Spaniel

Origin: France (Picardy region)

Breed Group: Sporting

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Males: 22–24 inches (56–61 cm), Females: 21–23 inches (53–58 cm)

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

Coat Type: Silky, slightly wavy, medium-length

Coat Colors: Blue-gray with black speckling

Grooming Needs: Moderate

Shedding: Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Gentle, calm, friendly, devoted

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Common Health Issues: Ear infections, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced, high-quality diet for active breeds

Exercise Needs: At least 1–1.5 hours daily; enjoys hunting, retrieving, running, and play

Space Requirements: Best in homes with yards or access to nature; can adapt to large apartments with enough activity

Noise Sensitivity: Low

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement

Good with Children: Yes, friendly and social

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, friendly and social

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with early socialization; hunting instinct may surface

Training: Intelligent and eager to please; responds well to positive reinforcement

Description

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a versatile, elegant, and hardworking hunting dog from France, known for its calm demeanor, endurance, and beautiful blue-gray coat. They are affectionate and gentle with family, making them great companions as well as hunters. Their long-haired, slightly wavy coat requires regular brushing and sheds moderate to heavy, especially during seasonal changes. Training is easy, as they are highly intelligent, obedient, and eager to work, but they need regular mental and physical stimulation. With their high energy, they thrive in active households that enjoy outdoor activities.

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History

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a medium-sized pointing dog originating from the Picardy region in northern France. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, when British hunters brought their English Setters to the area for waterfowl hunting.

Key Points

Origins: The breed developed from the crossing of local Picardy Spaniels with English Setters, particularly the Blue Belton type, which introduced the distinctive blue-gray coat color. The first black, blue-gray coated spaniel was recorded in 1875, but the breed gained recognition much later.
Development: The breed's development was influenced by British hunters who left their dogs in Picardy due to quarantine restrictions in the UK. This led to the infusion of English Setter blood into the local spaniel population, creating a dog with a lighter build and a unique coat.
Recognition: The Blue Picardy Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed in France in 1938. It was later recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1996 and by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1995.
Today, the Blue Picardy Spaniel remains a rare breed, known for its hunting prowess and affectionate nature. It excels in retrieving game and is valued as a family companion due to its gentle and adaptable temperament.

Ideal Owner

Families, hunters, active individuals who enjoy the outdoors