Bourbonnais Pointing Dog
Summary
The Braco du Bourbonnais is one of the oldest breeds of France, with documented descriptions since the 16th century in the former province of Bourbon (present-day Allier). Of medium size and robust build, it stands out for its naturally short tail (bob tail) — a unique hereditary genetic trait in the pointing dog group. Nearly extinct in the mid-20th century (with zero specimens registered between 1963 and 1973), it was completely recovered by French breeders from the 1980s onward.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 51–57 cm
- Height (female)
- 48–55 cm
- Weight (male)
- 18–25 kg
- Weight (female)
- 16–22 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Short, fine, and dense; slightly rougher texture than a pointer's
- Common Colors
- White very densely ticked with liver (wine dregs/fawn lilac) or orange (peach blossom); patches are permitted
Temperament & Personality
The Braco du Bourbonnais is described as a calm, docile, and very hunter-oriented dog — it works at medium range and stays close to the handler. It is an excellent family dog with a tranquil disposition even at home. Easy to train and ideal for foot hunters who prefer a methodical dog to a wide-ranging one. Its natural calm and medium size make it one of the most accessible pointing dogs for family use.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate to high
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
- Suitable for Apartment
- Not recommended
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Entropion
- Hip dysplasia
- Joint problems
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- OFA orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
Is a Bourbonnais Pointing Dog right for you?
A Bourbonnais Pointing Dog may suit you if:
- You are prepared to provide 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise and engaging mental stimulation for a keen hunter.
- You enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle, especially foot hunting, where a methodical companion by your side is preferred.
- You appreciate a calm, docile, and tranquil dog that settles beautifully into family life at home.
- You are ready to embrace training an intelligent and biddable dog that naturally stays close to its handler.
- You seek a companion with low grooming needs, requiring only occasional bathing every 4 to 6 weeks for its short, dense coat.
- You are willing to manage a dog with a strong pointing instinct, delighting in its natural drive to work at medium range.
Think twice if:
- You expect a dog that will ignore its natural hunting instincts in favor of constant, absolute obedience in all environments.
- You need a dog that can comfortably spend long hours alone daily, as this breed thrives on companionship and activity.
- You are not prepared to provide consistent supervision and training to integrate a robust, energetic dog into a multi-pet household.
- You are unwilling to commit to at least 60 minutes of daily exercise or to manage moderate shedding throughout the year.
- You live in an apartment and cannot offer ample outdoor space, as this medium-sized breed is not recommended for apartment living.
- You are unprepared for the energetic nature and robust build of an adolescent dog that requires patient, firm guidance.
Living with a Bourbonnais Pointing Dog offers the unique joy of a tranquil family companion with a deep-seated hunting spirit. While they are wonderfully calm indoors and excellent with children, their moderate to high energy and innate drive mean they truly flourish with an active owner who understands and channels their working heritage. This honest balance creates a deeply rewarding bond.
Training a Bourbonnais Pointing Dog
The Bourbonnais Pointing Dog is a truly delightful and intelligent companion, known for being easy to train with a calm and docile nature. They thrive on positive reinforcement, especially when it involves praise, gentle encouragement, and opportunities to work alongside you. Keep training sessions short, fun, and consistent, building on successes to maintain their focus. As a methodical pointing dog, they love having a job to do and staying close. If training becomes harsh or inconsistent, this sensitive breed can become withdrawn or confused, making progress much slower. Remember, patience and a clear, kind approach are key to unlocking their full potential.
Begin with:
- attention and name response
- recall on a long line
- loose-leash walking
- leave it and drop it
- calm greetings without jumping
- settling on a mat
- cooperative handling
Prey Drive Management
Your Bourbonnais Pointing Dog has a strong, natural instinct to hunt and point, which means their attention can quickly shift to birds or small animals. This drive, while inherent to their breed, needs careful management during walks and outdoor activities. Always practice reliable recall in varied environments, starting in low-distraction areas and gradually increasing the challenge. Using a long line initially provides safety and allows them to explore safely while you build their responsiveness.
Channeling this instinct through appropriate activities is also key. Consider scent work, tracking games, or even supervised 'find it' games in a secure area. This allows them to use their natural talents in a controlled way, satisfying their hunter's heart without compromising their safety or your peace of mind.
Leash Manners
While your Bourbonnais is calm and docile at home, their moderate to high energy level means they need their daily 60-90 minutes of exercise. If not properly taught, a medium-sized dog with this energy can certainly pull on the leash. Start teaching loose-leash walking from day one, making walks a pleasant experience for both of you. Reward them frequently for walking calmly by your side, and make sure to change direction often to keep their attention on you. Consistency is vital to prevent pulling from becoming a habit.
If you're struggling, consider using a front-clip harness, which can help redirect their momentum without discomfort. Remember, a calm walk is a happy walk, and it reinforces your bond. You can find more tips on stopping leash pulling in our blog.
Preventing Boredom
A Bourbonnais Pointing Dog with moderate to high energy needs consistent physical activity and mental engagement to truly thrive. Without their recommended 60-90 minutes of daily exercise and stimulating activities, they might express their boredom or pent-up energy in ways you don't appreciate, such as excessive barking, chewing, or even becoming a bit restless indoors. Remember, they are intelligent and love having a 'job' to do, even if it's just a game of fetch or a scent-finding puzzle.
Ensure their days are filled with structured play, training, and outdoor adventures. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular training sessions can keep their minds sharp and prevent undesirable behaviors. Our training feature can help you build a consistent routine to keep your Bourbonnais happy and engaged.
Bourbonnais Pointing Dog — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog)?
The Braque du Bourbonnais, also known as the Bourbonnais Pointing Dog, is a truly ancient and distinguished breed hailing from France, with its roots tracing back to the 16th century in the former province of Bourbon. This medium-sized, robust canine belongs to the FCI Group 7, known for pointing dogs. A truly unique characteristic that sets them apart is their naturally short tail, a distinctive bob tail that is a hereditary genetic trait within the pointing dog group. After facing near extinction in the mid-20th century, dedicated French breeders lovingly brought this wonderful breed back from the brink, ensuring its legacy continues.
What was the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog) originally bred for?
The Braque du Bourbonnais was originally bred with a singular purpose: to be an exceptional hunter's companion. Documented as far back as the 16th century, these dogs were developed to work as pointing dogs, excelling at locating game and then 'pointing' to its position for their handler. They are renowned for working at a medium range, staying close to their human partner, which makes them ideal for foot hunters who appreciate a methodical and attentive dog rather than one that ranges widely. Their dedication and natural instinct in the field are truly remarkable.
How much exercise does a Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog) need?
Your Braque du Bourbonnais will thrive with a good amount of activity! These wonderful dogs have a moderate to high energy level, reflecting their heritage as active pointing dogs. To keep them happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated, aim for a recommended 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day. This could include brisk walks, engaging playtime in a secure yard, or even participating in dog sports like agility or scent work. Remember, consistent physical and mental engagement is key to preventing boredom and ensuring your Bourbonnais Pointing Dog remains a well-adjusted and joyful companion.
Is the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog) a good family dog?
Absolutely! The Braque du Bourbonnais is truly an excellent family dog. Despite their hunting prowess, they possess a wonderfully calm and docile temperament, maintaining a tranquil disposition even at home. Their medium size and gentle nature make them one of the most accessible pointing dogs for families, getting along famously with children and often integrating well with other pets when properly introduced. They love being part of the family unit and will bring a quiet, loving presence to your home, making them a cherished companion for everyone.
Is the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog) easy to train?
You'll be delighted to know that the Braque du Bourbonnais is considered easy to train! These intelligent dogs are known for their calm and docile temperament, combined with a strong desire to please their handler. They are very hunter-oriented, which translates into a focused and cooperative attitude during training sessions. They respond well to positive reinforcement and consistent methods, making them an ideal choice for both experienced and novice dog owners. Their methodical nature means they're eager to learn and will quickly pick up commands, becoming a wonderfully obedient companion.
What health issues are common in the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog)?
Like all breeds, the Braque du Bourbonnais can be prone to certain health conditions, and being aware of these helps you provide the best care. Some documented health concerns for this lovely breed include Entropion, which affects the eyelids, and orthopedic issues such as Hip Dysplasia and other general Joint Problems. Responsible breeders will screen their dogs for these conditions to help ensure healthy puppies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are all vital steps in helping your Bourbonnais Pointing Dog live a long, happy, and healthy life by your side.
What is the Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog)'s coat like and how much grooming does it need?
The Braque du Bourbonnais sports a practical and easy-to-care-for coat, perfectly suited for their active lifestyle! These pointing dogs typically have a short, dense coat that offers protection without being high maintenance. This means grooming is wonderfully straightforward for these lovely dogs. A quick brush once a week is usually all that's needed to remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking neat and healthy. Occasional baths will keep them smelling fresh, making them a joy to live with for busy families who appreciate a low-fuss grooming routine.
What is the typical lifespan of a Braque du Bourbonnais (Bourbonnais Pointing Dog)?
The Braque du Bourbonnais is a robust and healthy breed, and with proper care, you can expect to enjoy many wonderful years with your companion. The typical lifespan for a Bourbonnais Pointing Dog is generally between 10 to 12 years. Providing a high-quality diet, regular veterinary check-ups, consistent exercise, and plenty of love and mental stimulation will contribute significantly to their overall well-being and help them live a full and happy life by your side. They truly become cherished members of the family for over a decade.
Community
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