Braque d'Auvergne
🧠 Temperament & character
The Braque d'Auvergne is gentle, biddable and pleasantly even-tempered, a pointing dog with a thoroughly friendly character. It bonds closely with its family, is sociable and likes to work closely together with its person. On the hunt it shows itself passionate and fond of movement, without seeming nervous. This even temper makes it one of the most easy-going of the French braques.
📜 Origin & history
The Braque d'Auvergne has its roots in the French region of Auvergne, where it was bred as a down-to-earth pointing dog over centuries. According to tradition, knights of the Order of Malta are said to have brought dark-coloured dogs with them in the 18th century, which contributed to the characteristic colouring. After the Second World War the breed was severely decimated and was rebuilt by dedicated enthusiasts. Today it is valued in France as a reliable hunting dog.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Braque d'Auvergne's short coat is uncomplicated and needs only occasional brushing. As an active pointing dog it has a high need for exercise and needs long daily outings, preferably with nose and retrieving work. Thanks to its biddability and eagerness to learn it is pleasant to train, but responds best to friendly, motivating methods. The drop ears should be checked regularly.
🩺 Health
The Braque d'Auvergne is considered a robust, healthy breed with a life expectancy of around twelve to fourteen years. As with many medium-sized pointing dogs, hip dysplasia can occasionally occur. The long ears should be cared for regularly to prevent infections. Responsible breeders X-ray the hips and pay attention to healthy, temperamentally sound parent animals.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Braque d'Auvergne is suited to active families and hunters who want a gentle, easily trainable pointing dog. Thanks to its friendly, even-tempered nature it can, with enough exercise, also suit committed first-time owners. Ideal is a home with plenty of room to run in nature; for quiet apartment living without occupation it is not made. In Switzerland it is a pleasant companion for sporty, nature-loving people.