The Poitevin is a breed of hunting dog originating from the Poitou region. Its development dates back to the 17th century, thanks to the crossbreeding of Céris and Montemboeuf dogs, carried out by Marquis François de Larrye. After a period of decline, this breed regained some popularity in the 19th century, particularly for wolf hunting. The Poitevin was also known as the Dog of Haut Poitou until the 1950s.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Poitou region, France
- Type: Hunting dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 30-35 kg
- Female: 30-35 kg
- Height:
- Male: 62-72 cm
- Female: 62-72 cm
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Not suitable for apartment living)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Can be a good companion for children, but is less affectionate)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Compatible with animals, but a bit independent)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Fairly sociable with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Needs space to run and hunt, better suited for a house with a large garden)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Quite affordable)
- Frequency of care:
- Brushing: Regular brushing is necessary to remove dead hair
- Additional care: Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 400-800 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 450-650 €
🏡 Important note
The Poitevin is primarily a hunting dog, and it is essential that it can expend energy in an environment suited to its need for movement. It is not suitable for apartment living due to its need for space to run and play. A large fenced garden or an open natural space is the ideal place for it to thrive. If you are an active owner and have the necessary space, the Poitevin can be an energetic and loyal companion.
