A dog breed that was used only for hunting, the Braque Francais Pyrenean has been discovered to be capable of more than just hunting.
These sweet family dogs are not aggressive in any way and are completely devoted to their family.
They love nothing more than pleasing their family. With proper training, he can be a companion for adults as well as kids.
They are not very territorial and love meeting and forming friendships with anyone; this makes them less suitable as a watchdog.
Even if hunting traits do not appear in his personality, the Braque Francais Pyrenean do have an agility to them which makes them very good at dog sports.
They also need adequate exercise as much as they need your love. Do not think of relegating them to a kennel because any sort of separation from the family might hurt them mentally.
About The Breed
The Braque Francais Pyrenean has a brown and white coat; this usually is a blend of brown, white, and solid brown.
Their coats are short and smooth to the touch. To keep their coats fine, they need to brush weekly.
The Braque Francais Pyrenees are activity-loving dogs and love the outdoors. They are a great addition to the household.
They are not just good with adults but also with children. Since they are hunting dogs, the Braque Francais Pyreneans do not do well with smaller animals.
However, they would not make a fuss if there was another medium-sized dog in the house.
Braque Francais Pyrenean Dog Breed History
Developed in the 15th century, the Barque Français Pyrenean was referred to as the Braque Francais till the 19th century.
Similar to the Braque Français Gascogne, a distinction was brought between the two dogs only lately.
The Braque Francois Pyrenean was the smaller of the two and was found in southwest France and the Pyrenean mountain.
It is believed that the Braque Francais Pyreneans were crossed with native breeds like the Old Spanish Pointer or the Southern Hound to develop the Braque Francais Gascogne.
The Braque Francais Pyreneans are small, athletic, and excellent hunters. They are quite good at hunting in mountainous regions.
A rare breed, the Braque Francais Pyrenean has been recognized by both the CKC as well as the NAVHDA.
They are also on the way to getting officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Braque Francais Pyrenean Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Braque Francais Pyrenean |
| Other Name | French Pointer |
| Dog Breed Type | Purebred; companion dogs |
| Origin | France |
| Parent Breeds | Braque Francais Pyrenean |
| Height | 18.5 – 27 inches |
| Weight | 40 – 80 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Coat Type | Short to slightly long |
| Common Colors | White; red; black; brown |
| Grooming Needs | Minimal grooming |
| Shedding | Shedding is minimal |
| Temperament | Obedient; social; athletic |
| Apartment Living | Yes |
| Pet Friendly | No, they usually don’t get along with other pets |
| Health Concerns | Hip dysplasia; Patellar Luxation; Progressive retinal atrophy; Elbow dysplasia; Entropion; Ectropion; cataracts |
| Overall Health | Healthy breed |
| Intelligence Level | Very smart |
| Trainability | Easy to train |
| Energy Level | High |
| Activity | high; 30 minutes of daily activity |
| Litter Size | 3 – 6 puppies |
What To Know
• These active dogs require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They excel in activities like hunting, agility, and hiking, making them an ideal choice for active individuals or families.
• Despite their strong hunting instincts, Pyrenean Pointers are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They typically get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent companions.
• One distinctive feature of this breed is its short and dense coat, which comes in various colors, including orange and white, liver and white, and black and white. Their coat is easy to groom, requiring only occasional brushing to keep it in good condition.
• Braque Francais Pyrenean is highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can be a bit independent at times, so consistent, positive reinforcement-based training methods work best for this breed.
Characteristics
Adaptability
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, often simply called the Pyrenean Pointer, is a versatile and adaptable breed. ❤️
They excel in various roles, from hunting to family companionship. With their medium build and graceful appearance, they can adapt to both active outdoor lifestyles and cozy indoor settings.
Their friendly and sociable nature makes them great additions to families.
They tend to get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized.
Despite their adaptability, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Whether in the field or by your side at home, this breed’s adaptability and charm shine through.
Adaptability
s
Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Good For Novice Owners
Sensitivity Level
Tolerates Being Alone
Tolerates Cold Weather
Tolerates Hot Weather
Friendliness
These dogs are not only devoted to their owners but also incredibly warm and welcoming to strangers, making them excellent family pets and companions.
Their affectionate nature extends to other animals, as they tend to get along well with other dogs and pets.
Their friendly disposition makes them ideal for households with children, as they are patient and gentle.
Overall, the Braque Francais Pyrenean’s natural friendliness is a hallmark of the breed, creating loving and harmonious relationships with all they meet.
All About Friendliness
Affectionate With Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog Friendly
Friendly Toward Strangers
Personality
The Braque Francais were made to hunt and therefore have a high prey drive. This makes them a threat to smaller animals like rabbits, rats, etc.
Their aggressive hunter personality lies in contrast with their homely and loving nature.
One of the best family dogs, the Braque Francais, is known to develop deep bonds with their family.
They drop the last of their dominant attitude when in the company of their family and become loving and adorable.
This non-dominant trait is also useful when it comes to children, and the Braque Francois are wonderful with children.
They do get along with other similar-sized dog breeds and usually don’t show any aggression when confronted by another dog.
They are a very friendly breed; not only do they get along easily with their family, but these pups will also bond with strangers easily as well.
If you are thinking of leaving them in a kennel or the backyard, that would not be the best idea because these dogs cannot be kept away from their family.
They need a lot of attention and affection and are very bubbly extroverts.
Leave them alone, and they have a way of garnering back your attention by barking incessantly. Socialization at an early stage will be good for your pup.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
The Braque Francais Pyrenean is not only a superb hunting dog but also a wonderful family companion.
Their gentle and friendly nature makes them excellent playmates for children. They are patient and tolerant, making them a safe choice around kids.
With their loyalty and affection, these dogs often become an inseparable part of the family, providing love and laughter to children of all ages.❤️
Amicable to Other Pets
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, with its gentle disposition and friendly demeanor, is amicable to other pets.
Their social nature makes them excellent companions for cats, dogs, and other animals in the household.
Their calm and tolerant temperament fosters harmonious relationships, ensuring your furry family members coexist happily together.
Barking Tendencies
The Braque Francais Pyrenean is known for its calm demeanor, making it a generally quiet breed.
These dogs tend to bark infrequently and only when necessary.
They possess a keen sense of alertness, which may prompt them to bark when they sense a potential threat or unfamiliar presence.
Overall, their barking tendencies are moderate, making them great companions for peaceful households.
Possibilities of Staying Alone
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, a loyal and independent breed, can adapt well to solo living situations.
Their self-reliant nature and low-maintenance coat make them ideal for those who live alone. They are affectionate companions, providing emotional support and protection.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to keep them happy and healthy, ensuring a harmonious partnership between owner and dog. ❤️
Pros And Cons Of The Braque Francais Pyrenean Dog Breed
Pros
- Excellent hunting and tracking abilities.
- Friendly and loyal temperament.
- Low grooming maintenance is required.
- Good family and companion dog.
- Adaptable to various environments.
Cons
- High energy levels, needs exercise.
- Prone to separation anxiety.
- Can be stubborn in training.
- Requires socialization from early age.
- Limited availability outside France.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
Both the male and the female Braque Francais Pyrenean are almost of the same size.
Their temperament and behavior are also known to be similar.
However, previous owners have observed an increased prey drive in the male Pyrenees as compared to their female counterparts.
The male dogs are known to get less well along with smaller dogs than the females, and they excel more at hunting.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, often called the Pyrenean Pointer, is a captivating breed known for its elegance and athleticism.
Their general appearance reflects a harmonious blend of grace and strength. These dogs have a medium-sized, well-proportioned body, exuding an aura of agility.
Their expressive eyes, usually amber or hazel, reflect intelligence and enthusiasm, while their pendulous ears add to their charm.
The coat is short and dense, showcasing a glossy appearance. Coat colors vary, typically featuring a white background with distinctive orange markings.
With a sleek build and a purposeful gait, Braque Francais Pyrenean embodies both form and function.
Their gentle expression and muscular physique make them not only a striking sight but also excellent companions for those who appreciate both beauty and athleticism in a canine friend.
Coat Color
The Braque Francais Pyrenean breeds often have a chestnut brown color or a monotone white shade with brown speckles throughout their body.
One of the unique features of the Braque breeds is these large or small spots on their body.
As for grooming requirements, the Braque Francais are low maintenance and do not require regular sessions with a professional groomer.
You can groom them at home yourself by brushing their coat with a natural bristle brush that will remove dead hair and dirt from their short yet thick coats.
Other than that, they brush their teeth and check for ear infections every week.
Shedding
The Braque Francais Pyrenean shed only minimally, and even this can be further decreased through regular brushing.
The Pyreneans have a soft and thick coat of fur, and it can get a bit frustrating when they float about the house; the only solution to this problem will be weekly brushing.
Size
The Braque Francais Pyreneans are small and agile dogs, bred to be hunting dogs. Their lighter weight and swift movement make them excellent for hunting in mountainous terrains.
They have long, straight-lined bodies and broad heads. Their ears are small. Their legs are smaller than their body, which gives them an athletic stature.
Their height can fall anywhere between 18.5 to 22 inches. They are lighter than most hunting breeds but can easily gain weight.
Vital Statistics
| DOG BREED GROUP | COMPANION DOG |
| HEIGHT | 18.5 – 27 INCHES |
| WEIGHT | 40 – 80 POUNDS |
| LIFE SPAN | 12 – 15 YEARS |
Health
The Braque Francais is a healthy breed, but some of the diseases that are common in them are Hip dysplasia; Patellar Luxation; Progressive retinal atrophy; Elbow dysplasia; Entropion; Ectropion; and cataracts.
Other than that, be wary of their tendency to develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Health And Grooming Requirements
Amount Of Shedding
Drooling Potential
Easy To Groom
General Health
Potential For Weight Gain
Size
Maintenance And Care
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, despite its regal name, is a very low-maintenance dog. They have very few grooming requirements.
However, this does not mean caring for this beautiful breed will require no effort at all.
The very little you can do for them is by brushing their coats every week to keep the dirt and dead hair off their manes.
This will keep them fresh and happy. The Braque Francais Pyrenean is minimal shedder, and this can be further minimized by occasional grooming and brushing using a natural bristle brush.
They do not need to be bathed much; twice or thrice a year will do. However, their being an adventurous and active breed also means that they can get dirty easily and will need to be bathed.
Their ears must be checked weekly for any type of infection or foul smell that is a symptom of ear infection.
Clean their ears using cotton and peroxide. Maintain the health of their teeth and gums by brushing their teeth weekly and sticking to a dental plan.
Grooming
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, known for its elegance and versatility, has manageable grooming needs.
Their short, dense coat requires minimal brushing, keeping it neat. Occasional baths are enough to maintain their natural shine.
However, pay attention to their floppy ears; regular checks and cleaning can prevent infections.
Don’t forget nail trims and dental care to keep your Braque Francais Pyrenean in top shape.
Their low-maintenance grooming routine allows you more time to enjoy their friendly and active nature.
Food And Nutrition
A balanced diet plays an important role in maintaining the overall well-being of your Braque Francais Pyrenean.
These dogs, who were specifically developed for hunting, have high energy and are known to be very active.
This means that there should be an abundant supply of protein in the diet. 18 to 25 % of protein will give your dog enough energy to be his active and playful self.
Besides that, their active self will need lots of fat, too; including 15 to 20 % of fat in their daily diet will ensure that they are energetic throughout the day.
Carbohydrates are also essential. Split your dog’s meal time into two meals a day.
Food Cost
For your dog, 2-3 cups of dog food is recommended daily. Just divide them into 2-3 meals.
Don’t make your dogs overeat. The average daily cost would be around $1.1-$1.5. The monthly costs come to be around $33-$50.
Exercise And Activity Level
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, as we are already aware, is a hunting dog, and this makes them relatively high on the activity bar.
Set aside at least an hour for them to engage in various activities that can include hiking, running, swimming, or a simple walk.
This is required daily. Besides being good at hunting, these breeds are known to be highly intelligent as well, so it is a must that you include mentally stimulating games in their daily activities.
Physical Requirements
Energy Level
Intensity
Exercise Needs
Potential for Playfulness
Trainability
The Braque Francais Pyrenean, with its amiable temperament and eagerness to please, is generally a trainable breed.
They thrive on positive reinforcement and respond well to consistent, gentle training methods.
These dogs have a natural hunting instinct, which can be honed for various activities like fieldwork or agility training.
However, it’s important to note that they can be sensitive souls, so a heavy-handed or harsh approach can be counterproductive.
Establishing a strong bond through trust and love is crucial for a harmonious training experience.
With the right guidance and patience, the Braque Francais Pyrenean can become a well-mannered and obedient companion.
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Intelligence
Potential For Mouthiness
Prey Drive
Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Wanderlust Potential
Conclusion
The Braque Francais Pyrenean and the Braque Francais Gascoyne were known as Brque Francais earlier, and it was only in the later years that they were separated based on their length and their place of origin.
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FAQs On TheBraque Francais Pyrenean Dog Breed…
Are the Braque Francais Pyrenean and the Braque Francais Gascogne the same?
No, they are not the same dog breed; the Pyrenees dogs are much leaner than the Gascoyne and are found in the Pyrenees mountains.
Will my Braque Francais Pyrenees dog get separation anxiety if I leave him alone for a long time?
Yes, they are very loving and equally clingy.
Are the Braque Francais Pyrenees good watchdogs?
No, because of their friendly nature, the Pyreneans are known to make easy friends with almost anybody, even strangers.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.