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Dog Breed

French Spaniel

Breed Overview

Breed Name: French Spaniel

Origin: France

Breed Group: Sporting (AKC Foundation Stock Service)

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium to Large

Height: Male: 22.5–24.5 inches (57–62 cm), Female: 21.5–23.5 inches (55–60 cm)

Weight: Male: 50–60 lbs (23–27 kg), Female: 44–55 lbs (20–25 kg)

Coat Type: Medium-length, wavy, silky with feathering

Coat Colors: White with brown markings (liver roan or chestnut), often with ticking or speckling

Grooming Needs: Moderate (weekly brushing, regular ear checks)

Shedding: Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Gentle, friendly, calm, obedient, affectionate

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: Moderate to High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–14 years

Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, ear infections, allergies (relatively healthy breed overall)

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced diet for medium to large sporting breeds; adjust food based on activity level

Exercise Needs: Moderate to High – needs daily walks, play, and mental stimulation; excels in fieldwork and dog sports

Space Requirements: Best in a home with a yard or access to outdoor space; adaptable with enough exercise

Noise Sensitivity: Low

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: Moderate

Socialization Tips: Eager to please and intelligent; responds well to positive reinforcement and consistency

Good with Children: Yes, sociable and easygoing

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, sociable and easygoing

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with supervision and early introduction

Training: Eager to please and intelligent; responds well to positive reinforcement and consistency

Description

The French Spaniel is a versatile and elegant gundog, known for its gentle demeanor, athleticism, and hunting drive. Developed in France for pointing and retrieving upland game, this breed is also a loving and devoted companion. Their long, silky coat sheds moderately and requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and maintain its luster. French Spaniels are easy to train, thanks to their intelligence and willingness to work closely with humans, and they excel in obedience, fieldwork, and dog sports. They thrive in active homes with consistent mental and physical stimulation.

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History

Ancient Origins: The French Spaniel's ancestors were bird dogs used in the 14th century, mentioned in Gaston III of Foix-Béarn's Livre de chasse. These dogs were prized for their ability to work closely with hunters, pointing and retrieving game birds. The now-extinct Chien d’Oysel is believed to be a significant contributor to the breed.
Development: By the 19th century, French Spaniels were widespread in France and Canada, known for their adaptability to various terrains and weather conditions. However, competition from English Setters and Pointers led to a decline in popularity. Abbé Fournier, a French priest, played a crucial role in saving the breed from extinction in the early 20th century by establishing breeding programs.
Recognition: The first breed standard was written in 1891 by James de Connick. The breed was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1955 and by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1996. It remains rare outside France and Quebec but is gaining recognition internationally.
Today, the French Spaniel is valued as both a hunting companion and a family pet. It thrives in active households where it can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or hunting. Despite its rarity outside France and Quebec, its adaptability, friendly nature, and working abilities have made it increasingly popular among enthusiasts.

Ideal Owner

Active families, hunters, or individuals looking for a calm, devoted, and trainable sporting dog

Similar Breeds

English Springer Spaniel, Brittany, Small Munsterlander, German Longhaired Pointer