The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of hunting dog originating from the southwest of France, specifically from the region of Gascony. This breed dates back to the Middle Ages, when the nobles and lords of the region used these dogs to track large game such as deer and wild boar. Over the centuries, breeders have refined the breed to make it an excellent scent hound, valued for its ability to follow long-distance trails and work in packs.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: France (Gascony)
- Type: Hunting dog, scent hound
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 18-25 kg
- Female: 16-20 kg
- Height:
- Male: 52-58 cm
- Female: 50-56 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Not ideal for an apartment, but possible with sufficient exercise)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good with children, but active)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can get along with other animals but remains a hunting dog)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Sociable, but not particularly protective)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Preferable in a house with a garden, but possible with sufficient exercise)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Regular brushing needed)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: 1 to 2 times a week
- Bathing: As needed, no excessive grooming
- Ear and eye hygiene: Check regularly
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 500-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a dynamic and active dog that prefers a large space to move around, making it less suitable for apartment living. It needs long walks and mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Despite its medium size, it can be very energetic and requires frequent outings to burn off energy. If you are ready to provide the necessary exercise, this dog can be an excellent companion for active families.
