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Breed Characteristics
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Picardy Spaniel
| Other Names | Épagneul Picard |
| Country of Origin | France |
| Weight | Approximately 44 lbs. (20 kg) |
| Height (at withers) | 21.5 - 23.5 in. (55 - 60 cm) |
| Coat | Slightly wavy, dense, not too silky |
| Colour | Its coat can vary in colours from chocolate, chestnut brown and white with sandy coloured markings on the head and white or grey spots on the legs. |
| Litter Size | 4 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 10 - 15 years |
| Origin & History | The French Spaniel and the Picardy Spaniel are considered to be the two oldest continental breeds of spaniel. Both breeds are speculated to have stemmed from the Chien d' Oysel described in the writings of Gaston Phoebus. Hunting during this period in France was one of the favourite sports of the nobility and the French type of Spaniel became the favourite hunting dog of the French Royalty. The breed can be seen in paintings dating from this period by artists Alexandre-François Desportes and Jean-Baptiste Oudry. They were also the first breed of dog to be admitted into salons. The breed became more popular still following the French Revolution and the aftermath in which hunting was no longer restricted to the nobility. Although spread throughout France, a large concentration was located in the north west where the weather resistant coat of the breed made it ideal for the wooded and swampy conditions. During the early 19th century, British hunters crossed the channel to hunt in the grounds of north west France. The British brought their own hunting dogs, and this resulted in a change of preference as French hunters switched to English breeds and caused a major blow to the existence of the Picardy Spaniel. In addition the infusion of blood from the English Setter into the local spaniel population created the Blue Picardy Spaniel. |
| Personality | The Picardy Spaniel is a docile breed of dog and is fond of playing with children and bonds well with their master. It is described as having a gentle sociable nature, possessing a good character and being relatively easy to train. |
Care Requirements
| Health | The Picardy Spaniel has no known hereditary health problems. However being a hunting spaniel, the breed is prone to ear infections. These infections are common among dogs with pendulous ears, including Basset Hounds and other breeds of spaniel. |
| Grooming | Regular brushing twice a week of the medium-length, flat coat is really all that is needed to keep it in good condition. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. It is generally a low-maintenance dog. Check and clean the ears carefully, especially when the dog has been out in rough or brushy terrain. Trim the hair on the bottom of the feet and clip the nails. This breed is an average shedder. |
| Feeding | Overfeeding a Picardy Spaniel may lead to overweight. |
| Exercise | Picardy Spaniel's love exercise and have great stamina. They need daily extensive exercise, including a walk or jog and do best with an active outdoor person or hunter. This breed will enjoy running free in the safety of a fenced yard. |
| Other Considerations | The Picardy Spaniel is not recommended for apartment life unless it is actively working or getting daily pack walks. If under-exercised or bored they can be very active indoors. They do best with acreage. |
