Description: Braque D'auvergne
The Braque d'Auvergne, also known simply as the Auvergne Pointer, is a breed of versatile hunting dog that originated in the region of Auvergne in France. Known for its striking black and white coat and athletic build, this breed excels in both pointing and retrieving. The Braque d'Auvergne is renowned for its intelligence, endurance, and a keen sense of smell, making it an excellent companion for active hunters. Affectionate and loyal, these dogs also make delightful family pets as they are known to be gentle and patient with children. They thrive on human companionship and require regular, vigorous exercise to maintain their health and happiness.
Braque D'auvergne ratings
Properties
The Braque d'Auvergne, also known as the Auvergne Pointer, is more than just a gun dog; it is a breed rich in history and characteristic, originating from the mountainous regions of Auvergne in France. Esteemed for its sharp hunting skills, particularly in pointing and retrieving, this breed's development is traced back to the late 18th century, making it one of the oldest pointer breeds from France.
Physically, the Braque d'Auvergne is a medium-to-large sized dog, typically weighing between 40 to 60 pounds and standing about 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They possess a robust and athletic build, essential for the vigorous physical activities they are bred for. The most striking feature is their coat, which is short, dense, and sleek, primarily white with distinctive black patches or a black mottled pattern, which provides camouflage in the winter landscapes they often hunt in.
Known for their intelligence and eager disposition, the Braque d'Auvergne is relatively easy to train. They respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training methods. Their keen sense of smell and high prey drive make them excellent in hunting games, especially in challenging terrains. Moreover, they are versatile hunters, adept at both pointing and retrieving, making them valuable for various hunting practices.
Beyond the hunt, this breed makes a devoted and loving family companion. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, readily forming strong bonds with family members, including children. Socialization and regular interaction are crucial as they thrive on human companionship and can suffer when left alone for long periods. Their protective instinct makes them good watchdogs, although they are generally friendly towards strangers, especially when properly socialized.
Health-wise, the Braque d'Auvergne is a hardy breed, though they are predisposed to certain genetic conditions like hip dysplasia and entropion. Regular veterinary check-ups along with a proper diet and adequate exercise can help in maintaining their health and mitigating potential health issues. Their life expectancy typically ranges from 12 to 15 years, a testament to their overall robust nature.
For potential owners, it’s important to consider the exercise and mental stimulation requirements of the Braque d'Auvergne. Daily physical activity is essential, as is participation in activities like agility, tracking, or continued field training, to keep them mentally engaged and physically fit. The Braque d'Auvergne is not just a pet but a lifelong companion that brings joy and activity to an active family's life.
Appearance
The Braque d'Auvergne, a noble and sturdy gun dog from France, stands out with its remarkable aesthetic and workmanship. This breed, also known as the Auvergne Pointer, showcases a graceful yet burly silhouette, typical of a working dog capable of navigating various terrains during hunts. Characteristically, they wear a short, thick, and glossy coat which is predominantly white with black mottling, creating what is often referred to as a 'blue' look. This striking coat may also feature solid black patches, typically around the head and ears, adding a distinctive touch to their appearance.
The head of the Braque d'Auvergne is well-proportioned and slightly rounded, with a slight stop and a medium-length muzzle that is robust and powerful. Their large, expressive eyes convey an appearance of eagerness and intelligence, while soft pendulous ears frame the face, reaching to around the level of the nose when drawn forward. These physical attributes are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional, enhancing the breed's olfactory abilities which are essential for a hunting dog.
Their body is strong and athletic, with a deep chest and a well-defined musculature that testifies to their stamina and vigor. The tail is typically docked in countries where it is legally permitted, though the natural tail is of a medium length, carried horizontally or slightly raised, but never curled over the back. This breed's legs are straight and strong, with a brisk and powerful gait that allows them to cover ground smoothly and swiftly, a critical feature for tracking game over long periods.
In terms of size, the male Braque d'Auvergne usually stands about 57 to 63 centimeters at the withers, while females are slightly smaller, typically ranging from 53 to 61 centimeters. This size makes them neither too large to handle nor too small to be ineffective in rugged terrain.
Overall, the appearance of the Braque d'Auvergne is that of a well-balanced, powerful dog, marked by a dignified bearing and a physical build that combines agility, power, and endurance, making them not only excellent hunters but also impressive in the show ring.
History
The Braque d'Auvergne, named for the Auvergne region in France where the breed originated, is a French hunting dog with a rich history that dates back several centuries. Known for their intelligence and endurance, these dogs have primarily been bred for hunting purposes, specializing in bird hunting.
The Braque d'Auvergne is believed to be one of the oldest breeds of pointing dogs from France, though the exact origins are not well-documented. Historical accounts suggest that these dogs were developed from older types of gun dogs and possibly shared ancestry with other French and Spanish pointers. The region of Auvergne, known for its rugged terrain and vast areas of forest and agricultural land, provided a perfect setting for the development of a breed that excelled in hunting game in dense cover.
The primary role of the Braque d'Auvergne was to serve as a pointer and retriever in hunting parties. They are known for their ability to work tirelessly, covering large areas in search of game, and their skill in retrieving from both land and water. The breed's keen sense of smell and instinct to work closely with hunters made it a versatile and prized hunting companion.
The two World Wars had a significant impact on the Braque d'Auvergne, as they did on many European dog breeds. Post-war reconstruction and modernization of agricultural practices reduced the demand for traditional hunting dogs, leading to a decline in the breed's popularity. Fortunately, dedicated breed enthusiasts in France and later in other parts of Europe took efforts to preserve and revive the breed. They focused on maintaining the breed's hunting capabilities while also promoting its qualities as a companion and family dog.
Today, the Braque d'Auvergne is still relatively rare outside of France, though it has gained popularity in other countries among hunters and dog enthusiasts who appreciate its diligent work ethic, gentle temperament, and loyalty. The breed is also recognized by various international kennel clubs, which have helped to standardize the breed characteristics and promote its heritage.
Recent efforts in breeding have been aimed at both preserving the traditional characteristics of the Braque d'Auvergne and ensuring the genetic health of the breed. Breeders and breed clubs are continuously working to maintain the breed’s quality by adhering to strict breeding standards and participating in various hunting and dog sports competitions, highlighting the breed's versatility and enduring appeal.