Petit Bleu de Gascogne
From France comes the Petit Bleu de Gascogne. The Petit Bleu de Gascogne comes from France, and has a short and thick coat. Individual Petit Bleu de Gascognes vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- France
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- Short and thick
- Colour
- Mottled black and white
About the Petit Bleu de Gascogne
From France comes the Petit Bleu de Gascogne. Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a small hunting dog breed. It stands approximately 17-20 inches tall.
Overview
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of dog of the scenthound type , originating in France and used for hunting in packs. Today''s breed is the descendant of a large hunting dog. The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is not a small (petite) dog, the name comes from its use on small game.
History
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne''s ancestors were contemporary with the St. Hubert Hounds, dogs that were hunted in packs by the 14th century Comte de Foix on wolves, bears and boars. The slightly smaller Petit Bleu de Gascogne used on small game may have existed along with the boar hunting dog for centuries. "Petite" does not necessarily refer to the size of the dogs, but refers to the French expression for hounds used for smaller game.
Appearance
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is directly descended from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne , a hound of ancient type. Smaller examples of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne were selected for hunting small game such as hare (the Grand Bleu de Gascogne was developed to hunt wolves, bears and boars) and eventually became a separate breed. It is a medium-large size dog, not a small dog, standing 52 to 58 cm (20 to 23 in) at the withers , with females slightly smaller. The colour of the coat is the same as the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, white mottled with black, giving a slate blue overall appearance. There are black patches on either side of the head, with a white area on top of the head which has in it a small black oval. Tan "eyebrow" marks are over each eye give a ''quatreoeuillé'' (four-eyed) effect. Faults are deviations in appearance that have an effect on the health and working ability of the dog, as well as an absence of expected features of colour, structure, and size, indicating that a dog with such faults should not be bred. Faults include aggression or fearfulness, anatomical malformation, and lack of type . The Petite Bleu de Gascogne is noted for working well in a pack and being calm and easy to handle.
Health and temperament
No unusual health problems or claims of extraordinary health have been documented for this breed. Temperament of individual dogs may vary, but in general dogs bred to be pack hunting dogs do not make good pets .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Petit Bleu de Gascogne?
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a medium to large-sized scenthound with a muscular build, short coat, and distinctive blue-gray coloration. They have a broad head, long muzzle, and floppy ears. Adult Petit Bleu de Gascognes typically weigh between 45-65 pounds and stand 22-25 inches tall at the shoulder.
Is the Petit Bleu de Gascogne a good family dog?
As a hunting breed, Petit Bleu de Gascognes are naturally energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They can be suitable for families with older children who can provide the necessary exercise and attention. However, their strong hunting instinct may not make them the best fit for very young children or households without a secure yard.
What health problems do Petit Bleu de Gascognes have?
Like many large breeds, Petit Bleu de Gascognes are prone to hip dysplasia and certain eye problems. They may also be susceptible to bloat and gastric torsion. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help mitigate these risks. More research is needed to determine specific health issues unique to the breed.
How much does a Petit Bleu de Gascogne puppy cost?
The cost of a Petit Bleu de Gascogne puppy can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. On average, a reputable breeder may charge between $800-$1,500 for a puppy. However, prices can range from $500 to $3,000 or more. It's essential to research and find a reputable breeder to ensure you're getting a healthy puppy.
Where do Petit Bleu de Gascognes come from?
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne comes from France. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.