Ariege Pointing Dog
Summary
The Braco de Ariège is a French pointing dog of ancient origin, from the department of Ariège in the Occitanie region of southwestern France. Developed from the old French Braques crossed with southern orange and white Braques, as well as ancestors of the Bracco Italiano and the Perdigueiro de Burgos. Nearly extinct in the 20th century, it was recovered from 1990 by dedicated breeders. It is a powerful and elegant dog, of the traditional French "large hunting dog" type.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 60–67 cm
- Height (female)
- 56–63 cm
- Weight (male)
- 25–30 kg
- Weight (female)
- 25–30 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Short, fine, and dense
- Common Colors
- White flecked with orange, liver, or hazelnut patches on the head and ears; pink or light brown nose (never black); nails never black
Temperament & Personality
The Braco de Ariège is described as docile, easy to train, and adaptable to all types of hunting — an energetic dog but with remarkable mental balance. It is an independent dog in the field but loyal and affectionate with the family. Although it can be reserved with strangers, it is not aggressive. Its endurance and speed make it ideal for mountainous and hilly terrain, where it was historically used.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 0 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Ear infections
- Hip dysplasia
- Recommended Health Tests
- Orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
