Ariégeois

 🐾 Express story

The Ariégeois is a breed originating from the Ariège region in the south of France. It was born from the crossing of a local briquet dog and probably the Bleu de Gascogne around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Developed by Count Élie de Vézins to excel in hare hunting, it was later used for hunting larger game such as wild boar. Although it nearly disappeared during World War II, the Ariégeois has regained its place among hunting dogs, even though it remains relatively rare outside the Midi region of France. The breed was recognized in 1954 by the International Canine Federation (ICF).

 🐕 Portrait of the breed

The Ariégeois is a medium-sized dog with exceptional scenting ability and impressive endurance, making it perfect for hunting. It is very sociable, affectionate, and possesses great intelligence, which also makes it an excellent companion dog. Very energetic and playful, it is particularly appreciated by active families. Despite its sometimes stubborn temperament, it remains an obedient, devoted, and sensitive dog.  

 🔍 In short

- Hypoallergenic: No  

- Weight: 28-30 kg   

- Size: 52-58 cm (male), 50-56 cm (female)  

- Life expectancy: 10-13 years  

- Need for physical activity: 2 to 3 hours per day  

 ❤️ Personnality & compatibility

- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- Protector: ⭐☆☆☆  

- Player: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- Sporty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆    

Compatibility:  

- With the children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- With the animals: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- With the unknows: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆    

- In apartment: ⭐☆☆☆☆  

> Good to know: The Ariégeois loves the outdoors and long walks. It is not suited for apartment living, as it needs a lot of space and exercise. However, it is very sociable and gets along well with children and other animals. It is also patient and gentle with the younger ones.

 🛠 Hygiene & care

- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

> The Ariégeois requires weekly brushing to remove dead hair. Being an active outdoor dog, it is important to check him after each outing for the presence of parasites or dirt. The eyes, ears, and paw pads should also be regularly maintained.

 💰 Budget  

- Purchase price: €500 to €1,000  

- Average annual cost: €450 to €950 (veterinarian, accessories, food)  

💡 Fun fact: Although he is an excellent hunter, the Ariégeois is also a dog of great gentleness with children and has a joyful and affectionate personality, making him an excellent family companion.