Anglo-French Hound

Breed Description

The Anglo-French Small Hound, sometimes known as Petit Anglo-Français, Petit Bleu de Gascogne, or Petit Français, is a dog breed with a proud and fascinating history. These small hounds originated in France and first emerged in the 19th century when efforts to breed them began. Their ancestors were Anglo-French hounds that were called upon to hunt various game. Dogs of this breed resemble larger hound breeds but have been specially bred to be more compact, making hunting with them more convenient and efficient. The Anglo-French Small Hound was developed to hunt small game such as rabbits and foxes. They have proven to be excellent trackers with a good sense of smell and endurance. Over time, the breed became popular not only with hunters but also among families, and they began to be used as loyal companions and friendly family pets. These dogs possess a unique and attractive appearance, with short, smooth coats and a characteristic blue coloring that gives them a distinctive charm. Their ears are moderately long and drooping, and their eyes are bright and attentive. The temperament of the Anglo-French Small Hound is one of its most appealing q

Appearance

The Anglo-French Small Hound is a dog breed that undeniably stands out among others with its unique and charming appearance. These dogs possess distinctive features that make them irresistible both to hunters and to those seeking a loyal companion and devoted friend.

Size and compactness: As suggested by its name, the Anglo-French Small Hound is a compact breed. The average weight of an adult dog of this breed ranges from about 15 to 20 kilograms, with a shoulder height typically between 48 and 56 centimeters. This compact size makes them convenient for transport and facilitates hunting in hard-to-reach areas.

The overall appearance of dogs of this breed is elegant and harmonious. Their look conveys an impression of endurance, speed, and energy. The Anglo-French Small Hound embodies the efficiency of a hunting dog and the appeal of a family companion.

The French Small Hound is a breed that combines beauty, endurance, and a friendly nature. Their unique appearance makes them one of a kind, and their hunting abilities and loyalty to their owners make them popular worldwide. These wonderful dogs have become not only excellent companions for hunters but also devoted friends for many families who cherish quality pets.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the Anglo-French medium-sized hound is well-formed and light. They have a flat skull with a straight, gradually tapering muzzle. The size of the skull is slightly larger than the length of the muzzle. Their nose is black and well-developed, with a tip that should not be too short or too long.

Морда

The muzzle is of medium length, well-proportioned, and conveys confidence and intelligence. It has a flat skull with a straight muzzle that slightly narrows towards the nose. The lips are thick and somewhat elongated, giving the face an elegant and serious expression.

Уши

The ears of the Anglo-French small hound are usually medium-sized, wide, and round at the base. They lie close to the head and have thin tips. The ears of this breed help them pick up sounds and track their prey while hunting.

Глаза

The eyes of the hound are large and expressive, with a penetrating gaze. They typically have brown or dark brown eyes, which give them an intelligent and appealing appearance.

Зубы

The teeth and jaws are strong, with a complete set of teeth. They should have a strong bite and proper alignment of the teeth. These are important aspects for ensuring optimal chewing function and oral health.

Корпус

The body is sturdy, flexible, and muscular, with a straight back and a deep chest. The lower back is moderately long, and the belly is slightly taut. This body structure allows them to be fast and agile when hunting.

Конечности

The paws of this breed are strong and muscular. The front and rear limbs are correctly positioned, providing stability for the dog while moving. The paws have dense and flexible pads, which help them grip various types of surfaces.

Хвост

The tail of the Anglo-French small hound is usually long and thin, straight or slightly curved. It is held horizontally and emphasizes the grace and elegance of this breed.

Шерсть

The fur is short, smooth, and dense, which makes it easy to clean.

Окрас

The color varies from tricolor (black, white, and red) to bicolor (white and red). This breed typically has a good facial mask and a white bib on the chest, which further enhances their attractiveness.

Character

The character of the Anglo-French small hound is a true treasure trove of unique traits that make this breed special and irresistible. These remarkable dogs not only perform their hunting duties adeptly but also become loyal friends to their owners. Let’s explore the key characteristics that make the Anglo-French small hound such a unique breed.

Loyalty: These dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners. They develop deep emotional bonds and always strive to please their masters. It’s no surprise that they become true family members and best friends for their owners.

Intelligence and Trainability: Anglo-French small hounds possess outstanding intelligence and trainability. They were bred as hunting dogs and have excellent tracking and scouting skills. This makes them great candidates for training, and they quickly pick up commands and skills, making them versatile and useful companions.

Activity and Energy: This breed has a high level of energy and activity. They require regular exercise and active playtime. Therefore, they are ideally suited for active families and individuals who value a dynamic lifestyle.

Sociability: Anglo-French small hounds are generally very social and friendly. They easily bond with other dogs and pets and get along well with children. This friendliness makes them excellent playmates and companions for the whole family.

Independence: Despite their loyalty, Anglo-French small hounds also exhibit a degree of independence. They can be a bit stubborn at times and have their own opinions. This makes them interesting partners for those who appreciate the character and individuality of their pets.Overall, the Anglo-French small hound is a breed that combines the best qualities of a hunting dog and a loyal family companion. Their loyalty, intelligence, activity, and friendly nature make them a wonderful choice for both hunters and anyone seeking a faithful and energetic friend ready to keep up with an active lifestyle.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of an Anglo-French small hound requires attention, care, and utmost responsibility. These energetic and loyal dogs can make excellent companions, but certain care and conditions are necessary for their happy and healthy lives.

Proper Nutrition: Proper nutrition plays a key role in caring for your Anglo-French small hound. Choose high-quality commercial food or consult a veterinarian regarding a balanced diet. Adhere to feeding guidelines based on your dog’s age, size, and activity level.

Physical Activity: These dogs have a high energy level and require regular exercise. Outdoor walks, running, and active games will help them release excess energy and stay healthy. Ensure they have enough time for physical activity.

Training and Mental Tasks: Anglo-French small hounds are intelligent and trainable. Regular training and mental challenges will help maintain their interest levels and discipline.

Coat Care: This breed has a short, smooth coat that requires minimal maintenance. Regular brushing and bathing as needed will keep their coat shiny and clean. Care for their ears and teeth according to veterinary recommendations.

Health Care: Regular visits to the veterinarian and vaccinations are essential for your dog’s health. Monitor their weight and skin and coat condition. Also, watch for any signs of illness and consult with a veterinarian if necessary.Socialization and Interaction: These dogs are very sociable and friendly. Ensure they have plenty of interaction with other dogs and people. Socialization will help them develop social skills and feel comfortable in various situations.Safety: Ensure your dog’s safety, especially during walks. Due to their hunting instinct, they may be prone to chasing scents or reacting quickly to moving objects. Therefore, it is important to use a leash or ensure the reliability of fencing on your property.Caring for an Anglo-French small hound requires love, attention, and care from you. Proper nutrition, an active lifestyle, regular veterinary visits, and training will help your dog remain healthy, happy, and a loyal companion for many years.

Training and Education

Training and education of the Anglo-French Small Hound is an engaging and important process that allows this breed to unlock its potential and become excellent companions, both in hunting and everyday life. Although these dogs are intelligent and trainable, their lively character and some independence can present certain challenges. Here are some tips for training and educating the Anglo-French Small Hound:

Lay the foundations at an early age: Start training as early as possible. These dogs learn quickly, and early training will help them understand what is expected of them. Basics like house training and commands such as “sit,” “lie down,” and “stay” should be established during puppyhood.

Emphasize socialization: Early and active socialization is very important for this breed. Introduce them to different people, children, other dogs, and pets. This will help them develop good social skills and avoid aggressive behavior in the future.

Positive reinforcement: The Anglo-French Small Hound responds best to positive reinforcement, such as praise, affection, and treats. Use these motivators to encourage good behavior and command compliance.

Consistency and patience: Maintain consistency in training and be patient. These dogs can be stubborn, and you may need to repeat commands multiple times. Don’t lose patience and stay calm.

Leash training: Teaching leash walking is important to control your dog during walks. Train them to walk beside you without pulling and to respond to commands to ensure safe and enjoyable outings.Hunting skills: If you plan to use the Anglo-French Small Hound for hunting, provide specialized training in tracking and hunting game. This may require additional time and training.Regular training: Maintain regular training sessions to keep your dog’s skills and discipline sharp. Even after basic training, don’t forget to conduct periodic sessions to retain the results.Seek professional help: If you encounter difficulties during training or need specialized support, consult a professional trainer or dog training instructor.Training the Anglo-French Small Hound is an investment of time and effort, but it will pay off in the form of a well-behaved and balanced dog that will delight you with its loyalty and intelligence. The best breeders are gathered at Zoonica, offering puppies with pedigrees.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a puppy of the Anglo-French small hound breed is an important and responsible step that requires careful consideration and care. This breed is known for its loyalty, energy, and exceptional hunting abilities, so selecting the right puppy will help you build a wonderful relationship with your future pet. Here are some key steps to help you choose the right Anglo-French small hound puppy:

Research the breed: Before getting a puppy, take the time to learn about the breed. Understand their history, characteristics, needs, and potential health issues. Knowing the breed’s traits will help you make an informed choice.

Choose a reputable breeder: Finding a respected and responsible breeder is one of the most important steps. The breeder should have a good reputation, monitor the health of their dogs, and provide appropriate care and socialization.

Ask questions: Communicate with the breeder and ask plenty of questions about the puppies and the breed. Inquire about the parents’ health, their temperament, and show ratings. Also, find out about the conditions for raising and socializing the puppies.

Meet the puppies: Visit the farm or kennel to see the puppies in person. Pay attention to their behavior, socialization, coat condition, and health. A healthy puppy should be active, cheerful, and sociable.

Check the documents: Make sure the breeder provides all necessary documents, including veterinary records, pedigree certificates, and a sales contract. This ensures the puppy’s legal origin and health.Ask about guarantees: A good breeder will offer a health and quality guarantee for the puppy. Clarify what the warranty conditions are and what they include.Carefully choose your puppy: When selecting a specific puppy, pay attention to its character and temperament. Note how it interacts with you and other puppies. This will help you determine how well it fits your lifestyle and expectations.Plan for care: Before bringing the puppy home, ensure you are ready to provide everything it needs for a happy and healthy life. Provide proper nutrition, physical activity, veterinary care, and socialization.Choosing an Anglo-French small hound puppy is a significant decision that will impact many years of your life and the life of your new friend. Take the time to search and select wisely to ensure that your future pet will be a perfect fit for your family and a reliable companion in your adventures. Choose the puppy of your dreams with a pedigree from Zoonika.

Health and Diseases

The health of the Anglo-French small hound is an integral part of caring for them as your loyal friends and hunting partners. This breed typically has strong health and endurance, but like all dogs, they have their unique traits and potential illnesses of which you should be aware.

It’s important to note that the level of care and attention you give to your Anglo-French small hound’s health will significantly impact its longevity and quality of life. Here are some key health aspects and potential diseases that this breed may encounter:

Obesity: Like many other breeds, the Anglo-French small hound is at risk of obesity. Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and moderation in treats can help maintain a healthy weight and physical condition.

Joint Diseases: Dogs of this breed may be prone to joint diseases, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy body weight can help reduce the risk of developing these issues.

Ear Diseases: Due to their long ears, Anglo-French small hounds can be susceptible to ear infections. Regular hygiene care and ear cleaning can help prevent problems.

Eye Diseases: Some eye conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma, may be hereditary in Anglo-French small hounds. Regular veterinary visits for eye checks and timely treatment can help preserve vision.Heart Diseases: Some individuals of this breed are prone to heart diseases, such as mitral stenosis. Regular medical check-ups can help identify such problems at early stages.Respiratory Diseases: Anglo-French small hounds may be prone to respiratory issues due to their facial structure. Maintain comfortable environmental conditions, especially in hot weather.It’s essential to take your Anglo-French small hound to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and monitor its overall condition and behavior. Early detection and treatment of diseases can help maintain your pet’s health. Additionally, support a healthy lifestyle by providing good nutrition, regular physical activity, and plenty of love and attention. With proper care and attention to your Anglo-French small hound’s health, you can enjoy many happy years with your loyal companion.