French Spaniel

The French Spaniel (Epagneul Français) is a dog breeds of the Spaniel type. It was developed in France as a multi-purpose gundog, capable of pointing and retrieving. The French Spaniel is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale under Group 7, Section 1, Continental Pointing Dogs, 1.2 Spaniel type; related to the Small Münsterländer and the Drentsche Patrijshond. It is rare outside its native country.

Size

The French Spaniel is one of the tallest spaniel breeds. Males can range in height from 21 to 24 inches (53 to 61 cm), females an inch shorter. Dogs can range in weight from 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg).

Coat and colour

The hair is medium, dense, with long feathers on the ears, backs of the legs and tail. It has some waviness on the chest and otherwise lies flat on the body. The color is always white with liver (very dark brown) markings. There may or may not be brown ticking in the coat. The French Spaniel's coat adapts to hot or cold climates.

Temperament

The French Spaniel is an intelligent dog that looks to please its owner. It does not take to a harsh handler. It responds well to positive treatment and repetitive lessons. As they mature, they become calm loving hunting companions and makes a wonderful house dog. As puppies and young dogs French Spaniels are like every other spaniel... High energy and exuberant. They need a place to run and exercise regularly and are not well adapted to small living quarters such as apartments.

The French Spaniel is a true versatile or multipurpose hunting dog that will pursue, point, track and retrieve game on land or water but like most pointing breeds the French Spaniel's true strength is hunting in the fields and forests. The French Spaniel is a medium to close working pointing dog that works at a very comfortable pace and distance. The gait is considered easy, supple, regular and energetic while remaining elegant. They are a tough, determined dog that can adapt to all types of terrain.