Description: Picardy Spaniel
The Picardy Spaniel is a rare and elegant hunting dog breed that originated in the Picardy region of northern France. Known for its gentle demeanor and adaptability, the Picardy Spaniel excels as both a family companion and a skilled gundog. This breed is characterized by its medium-to-large build, wavy blue-grey coat, and expressive, soulful eyes. Historically, the Picardy Spaniel was prized by French hunters for its exceptional nose, stamina, and ability to work in damp, challenging conditions. Today, it remains valued for its affectionate and friendly nature, especially around children and other pets. Despite its working background, the Picardy Spaniel is known for being calm indoors, provided it gets enough daily exercise. Its cooperative spirit and loyalty make it suitable for attentive first-time dog owners who enjoy active lifestyles.
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Properties
The Picardy Spaniel, originating from the Picardy region in France, is a rare and distinguished breed known primarily for its versatile hunting abilities and gentle, loyal temperament. This medium-to-large gundog is a member of the spaniel family and has historically been prized by French hunters for its resilience, agility, and exceptional scenting skills. The Picardy Spaniel boasts a sturdy, athletic build, typically standing between 21.5 to 23.5 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 44 to 55 pounds. Its dense, slightly wavy coat provides protection against harsh weather and allows the dog to work efficiently in wetlands, dense brush, and open fields. The fur is predominantly gray, flecked with brown, and sometimes features chestnut markings, giving the breed a handsome and rustic appearance.
Picardy Spaniels are admired for their calm and even temperament. They are affectionate, forming strong bonds with their human companions, and are known to be especially good with children, making them suitable as both hunting partners and family pets. Intelligent and eager to please, these spaniels respond well to positive reinforcement training and delight in participating in various dog sports, including obedience, agility, and tracking. Their sensitivity and gentle nature mean harsh training methods should be avoided.
As active sporting dogs, Picardy Spaniels require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. Long walks, play sessions, and opportunities to use their exceptional noses—such as scent games or organized hunts—are ideal. While adaptable, they thrive best in homes with access to outdoor space and with owners who appreciate and support their need for activity.
Health-wise, the Picardy Spaniel is generally robust with few breed-specific genetic problems, though, like many floppy-eared breeds, they can be prone to ear infections and should have their ears checked regularly. Their life expectancy typically ranges from 12 to 14 years. This breed's rarity outside France means prospective owners may need patience to find a reputable breeder. Overall, the Picardy Spaniel is a loving, smart, and versatile companion, ideal for those seeking a loyal friend or an able hunting partner.
Appearance
The Picardy Spaniel, also known as Épagneul Picard, is a medium to large-sized breed that presents a strong, well-balanced, and athletic appearance. The breed stands out with its robust build while still retaining the grace and elegance typical of continental spaniels. Males typically stand between 22 to 24 inches (56-61 cm) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller. Their weight generally ranges from 44 to 55 pounds (20 to 25 kg).
The Picardy Spaniel's coat is one of its most distinguishing features. It is of medium length, dense, slightly wavy, and weather-resistant, offering protection during outdoor activities such as hunting or exploring dense brush. The fur is not curly but does have a gentle wave, with abundant feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs. The coloring is predominantly a unique shade known as "marl," which is a blue-grey base marked with brown or fawn patches. The brown can range from light tan to a rich, deep chestnut, often forming a distinctive butterfly pattern on the face, as well as ticking or freckle-like spots elsewhere on the body.
The Picardy Spaniel's head is broad and slightly rounded, giving them a kind and intelligent expression. Their medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes are typically dark amber or hazel, offering a soft, expressive gaze. The ears are long, set at eye level, and hang gracefully, covered with wavy hair. The muzzle is broad and fairly long, with a straight nasal bridge and a well-developed black or dark brown nose.
The body of the Picardy Spaniel is strong and muscular without appearing heavy. The chest is deep, allowing for a good lung capacity, and the back is straight and firm. The tail is set slightly low, of moderate length, and features thick feathering, often carried with a slight upward curve when the dog is at attention or in motion. Their limbs are sturdy, with well-developed bone structure, strong pasterns, and rounded feet with webbing between the toes, suited for working in difficult terrains and water.
Overall, the Picardy Spaniel's appearance is one of functional beauty and rustic charm, ideally suited for active outdoor life and companionship.
History
The Picardy Spaniel, known as "Épagneul Picard" in French, is one of the oldest continental spaniel breeds, hailing from the Picardy region in northern France. Its history dates back centuries, with documented references to native spaniel-type dogs in the region as far back as the Middle Ages. During this period, spaniels were highly prized by the French nobility for their excellent hunting abilities, particularly in wet and marshy terrain. The Picardy Spaniel is believed to be a descendant of the old French Spaniels that were already well-established before the introduction of English hunting dogs in France.
The breed’s development was closely linked to the historical and socio-economic context of Picardy. The vast marshes, rivers, and woodlands of northern France created an environment perfectly suited for a versatile, rugged gun dog. By the 19th century, the Picardy Spaniel was well-known among French hunters for its endurance, keen nose, and aptitude for both water and land retrieval. Its distinct features, including a slightly wavy coat and a gentle, expressive face, set it apart from other continental spaniels.
The Picardy Spaniel’s popularity was at its peak before the French Revolution, when the nobility maintained kennels of these skilled hunting companions. However, political upheavals and changing tastes among hunters—who began favoring imported English breeds such as the English Setter and English Springer Spaniel—led to a significant decline in Picardy Spaniel numbers in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Efforts to preserve the breed began in earnest at the start of the 20th century, spearheaded by dedicated breeders who standardized its characteristics and sought official recognition. The breed was formally recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (the French Kennel Club) in 1907. Despite its declining numbers, the Picardy Spaniel never entirely disappeared and has continued to attract hunters and enthusiasts seeking a loyal, adaptable, and friendly companion.
Modern Picardy Spaniels are still valued for their versatility, calm temperament, and devotion to their families. Although relatively rare outside France, the breed is gradually experiencing a revival as interest in native and heritage breeds grows among dog lovers worldwide. Today, organizations in France and beyond are dedicated to promoting the breed and maintaining its health and working abilities.