Braque Francais

Description

The Braque Français is a versatile and athletic pointing dog from France, valued for its hunting skills, intelligence, and friendly nature. There are two varieties of this breed: the larger Gascogne type and the smaller Pyrenean type, both sharing similar characteristics but differing in size and specific traits.

Physically, the Braque Français is well-proportioned, with a muscular yet elegant build. It has a short, smooth coat that is usually white with brown or chestnut ticking or patches. Its expressive eyes and gentle demeanor reflect its amiable personality.

The breed is known for its calm and affectionate temperament, making it an excellent family companion. It is typically good with children and other animals, especially when socialized early. In the field, the Braque Français is a skilled and tireless hunter, excelling in pointing and retrieving, with a strong nose and adaptable nature that suit various terrains and climates.

Training the Braque Français is usually straightforward, as the breed is intelligent, eager to please, and responsive to positive reinforcement. It requires regular physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy, thriving in active households or with owners who enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting, hiking, or running.

Overall, the Braque Français is a versatile, affectionate, and loyal breed that excels in both work and companionship. It is an excellent choice for active families or individuals seeking a devoted partner for both outdoor adventures and home life.

History

The Braque Francais is one of the oldest continental pointing breeds, with origins that stretch back centuries in the rural regions of southwestern France. Its name, “Braque,” comes from an old French term for pointing dogs, while “Francais” signifies its Gallic heritage. Historically, these versatile gun dogs were kept by local hunters who needed a companion capable of working in a range of terrains—from lowland fields to the rugged foothills of the Pyrenees. Over time, different localized strains emerged, giving rise to two distinct varieties that exist today: the Braque Francais, Gascogne type (the larger, heavier variety) and the Braque Francais, Pyrenees type (a slightly smaller, more agile dog).

Documentation of these pointing dogs dates to at least the 15th or 16th century, though it’s likely they existed in some form long before. In the Gascony region and the Pyrenees, hunters honed the breed’s core qualities: a sharp nose, steady pointing instinct, and calm demeanor that made it easy to train and live with. As France’s agricultural communities modernized, the Braque Francais numbers dipped, like many other gundog breeds. However, its loyal following ensured that breed clubs formed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to standardize the two varieties, codifying the differences in size, coat, and hunting style.

In the aftermath of the World Wars, the Braque Francais—much like other European hunting dogs—faced population challenges. Nonetheless, a handful of dedicated breeders preserved and revived the bloodlines. Formal recognition came through the Société Centrale Canine (French Kennel Club) and later the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), helping the breed regain a foothold in France and gradually earn admirers overseas. Today, both varieties of the Braque Francais remain popular among hunters who appreciate their adaptability, intelligence, and gentle nature. While still relatively rare outside Europe, these dogs represent a living piece of French hunting heritage, continuing to excel in the field and as affectionate family companions.

Colors

•  Brown & White
•  Chestnut Brown
•  Chestnut Roan
•  White