The Braque d’Auvergne is a rare and elegant pointing dog that hails from the historic Auvergne region in central France. Known for its distinctive black-and-white coat, gentle temperament, and versatile hunting ability, this breed has been a trusted companion to hunters for centuries. While still relatively unknown outside Europe, the Braque d’Auvergne is steadily gaining recognition for its loyalty, intelligence, and balanced personality — both in the field and at home.
Origins and History
The Braque d’Auvergne is one of the oldest pointing breeds in France, with a history dating back over 200 years. It is believed to have descended from the ancient Braque Francais, a family of pointing dogs used by European nobility as early as the 15th century. The breed was refined in the Auvergne region, where it developed into a capable gundog known for its endurance, versatility, and soft mouth (gentle retrieving).
Though its numbers dwindled during the world wars, dedicated breeders worked to revive and preserve the Braque d’Auvergne. The breed remains rare outside of France but is cherished by enthusiasts for its noble heritage and hunting skill.
The “Imp” in the breed name often stands for Imported, especially in countries like the UK or USA, where the breed is still establishing itself.
Physical Characteristics
The Braque d’Auvergne has a classic pointer look: athletic, graceful, and purposeful. It is medium to large in size and carries itself with elegance and confidence. Its most recognizable feature is its black-and-white coat, often speckled or ticked.
Key features:
- Height: 22 to 26 inches
- Weight: 50 to 65 pounds
- Build: Strong yet refined, with well-defined muscles
- Coat: Short, smooth, and tight
- Color: White with black patches or speckling (called “blue ticking”)
- Head: Noble and expressive with long, floppy ears
- Eyes: Dark and soulful, reflecting a calm and intelligent nature
The Braque d’Auvergne is built for stamina and speed, making it an ideal hunting companion for long days in the field.
Temperament and Personality
This breed combines the traits of a skilled hunter with the demeanor of a calm and affectionate house dog. The Braque d’Auvergne is gentle, loyal, and eager to please, making it a joy to train and live with.
Key personality traits:
- Friendly and social: Gets along well with children, other dogs, and even strangers when properly socialized.
- Loyal and affectionate: Forms strong bonds with its family and thrives on companionship.
- Smart and trainable: Responds well to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance.
- Calm indoors, active outdoors: Has a balanced temperament, happy to relax at home after a good run or hunt.
- Gentle with game: Known for a soft mouth and excellent retrieving skills.
While this breed is naturally obedient, it can be sensitive to harsh training. Patience, consistency, and kindness go a long way with the Braque d’Auvergne.
Living with a Braque d’Auvergne
This breed is best suited for active individuals or families who can meet its exercise and mental stimulation needs. While not overly demanding, the Braque d’Auvergne is still a working breed at heart.
Ideal living conditions include:
- Access to a yard or safe open space
- Daily walks, runs, or playtime
- Interactive games and training sessions
- A family that includes the dog in daily life
Though calm indoors, the Braque d’Auvergne can become bored or anxious if left alone too long without stimulation. It thrives in homes where it is treated as part of the family.
Exercise and Activity
As a sporting dog, the Braque d’Auvergne needs regular activity to stay healthy and happy. It is not hyperactive but does require at least an hour of physical activity per day.
Great activities include:
- Fetch and field games
- Long walks or jogs
- Nose work or scent detection
- Training sessions or dog sports like agility
They excel in hunting environments but adapt well to non-hunting homes with adequate physical and mental exercise.
Grooming and Maintenance
The Braque d’Auvergne’s coat is short and low-maintenance. It sheds moderately and requires only basic grooming.
Care needs:
- Weekly brushing to remove loose hairs
- Occasional baths
- Ear cleaning to prevent infections (due to floppy ears)
- Regular dental care and nail trimming
Their low grooming needs make them suitable for owners who prefer an easy-care coat.
Health and Lifespan
Generally, the Braque d’Auvergne is a healthy and hardy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Thanks to selective breeding and limited overbreeding, the breed has relatively few genetic problems.
Potential concerns include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
Routine vet care and a balanced diet help ensure a long, healthy life for this noble dog.
Is the Braque d’Auvergne Right for You?
If you’re looking for a loyal, trainable, and family-friendly dog with hunting instincts and a calm demeanor, the Braque d’Auvergne could be your perfect match. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or an active family seeking a well-mannered companion, this breed offers beauty, brains, and boundless loyalty.
In Summary
The Braque d’Auvergne is an underappreciated gem in the world of pointing dogs. With its striking appearance, kind-hearted nature, and impressive versatility, this breed is ready to be both a skilled field companion and a devoted family member.
