Picardy Spaniel

Breed Description

Being one of the oldest breeds of spaniels, the Picardy Spaniel was instrumental in the development of the Blue Picardy Spaniel. The success of the Г‰pagnol de Picardie in hunting in the marshy surroundings of French provinces was simply astonishing. The French nobility sought to buy puppies from breeders and often purchased them in packs due to their unique working characteristics. It is fair to note that these setters were effective not only in retrieving waterfowl but also served as a symbol of high status at court, as such beautiful dogs were simply unaffordable for ordinary peasants.

Their special coat prevented the dogs from getting wet in the rain, and their strong muscles allowed them to quickly obtain desired game both in marshes and wooded areas, in tall grass, and in glades. Hunting companions surpassed retrievers, capturing rabbits, ducks, and even pheasants.

Quite large, sometimes standing over 60 cm at the shoulder, they faithfully served their owners for 12 to 14 years. At the same time, they were relatively lightweight, usually not exceeding 25 kg. A true intellectual, an aristocrat in the field-what could be more beautiful than this? The exquisite appearance of the Épagnol Picard can be seen in the paintings of many famous artists of that era. For instance, François Castellan immortalized this breed in his famous engraving of 1950.

The French Revolution brought its own changes to the development of this breed. Setters ceased to belong only to the upper class. Advertisements for puppy sales began to appear in small towns across the country. Around the end of the 19th to the beginning of the 20th century, their blood was mixed with that of dogs from the Foggy Albion. Since then, the popularity of Picardy Spaniels gradually began to wane, and they were more often kept as family companions rather than hunting dogs.

Nearly 16 years after the founding of the Picardy Spaniel club in 1921, it merged with the club of Blue Picardy Setters. The merged clubs underwent further transformation in the 1980s, leading to the formation of the French Spaniel Club, which included several other breeds, including the Pont-Audemert Spaniel.

Currently, the breed is quite popular. It is possible to purchase them from clubs in many countries worldwide, and in our country, at Zoonik. The best selection of kennels in Russia includes advertisements for puppies from reputable breeders. Their price is around 60,000 to 70,000 rubles.

Appearance

The aristocratic silhouette of the Picardy Spaniel closely resembles that of the English Setter, with the distinction that the English dog is somewhat larger. There is another variation within the Picardy line: the Blue Picardy Spaniel, which differs from our main subject in color.

Overall, this is a beautifully built dog with strong, muscular limbs, a fairly broad chest, and a gentle, affectionate gaze.

Droopy ears, like those of all spaniels, a slightly rounded skull, and a muscular neck are some additional distinguishing features of these dogs. With an average height for males around 60 cm, they can weigh over 24 kilograms (the ideal weight is considered to be 20 – 25 kg). Females are slightly shorter, about 55 cm tall, and weigh around 20 kg. The keen sense of smell of the spaniels astonishes hunters worldwide.

In addition, this breed makes a wonderful family companion with a friendly temperament and the ability to bond well with any family member. Many families with small children seek to choose a puppy from a kennel to give their kids a loyal friend for many years.

Despite all its virtues, it is quite a rare breed even in its native France. However, puppies from kennels can also be purchased at Zoonica. It offers the best selection of kennels in Russia, where hunting is very popular.

Отличительные черты

Голова

Strong and medium-sized, it has a slight angle between the nasal and frontal parts. The skull is quite wide, with the length of the skull slightly greater than that of the muzzle. The nasal part of the skull is slightly curved. This breed has a well-developed occiput. It does not appear heavy.

Морда

Of medium length, straight, with strong jaws. At the same time, the cheekbones are not particularly prominent. The lips are usually tightly closed and slightly lowered, forming a noticeable lower contour. Representatives of this breed have a distinctly long coat on the muzzle that frames it.

Уши

Long and hanging, like all spaniels. Set quite low, with very soft cartilage. Completely covered with dense curly fur on the outside. The presence of fur inside is allowed. This structure concentrates the scent of game around the muzzle.

Глаза

Round, quite large, but not protruding. Of the darkest shade of brown color. However, there are individuals with lighter colored irises, which mostly occurs in dogs with light coat colors. Blue-eyed Picardies are not permitted for breeding.

Зубы

Strong, tapering jaws with a full set of teeth. Only scissor-like occlusion is permissible. With this jaw structure, the grip of the jaws is stronger. The upper canines overlap the canines of the lower row of teeth by only 1 mm.

Корпус

The body of the Picardy Spaniel is straight, strong, and flexible, of medium length. The chest is deep, and the ribs are rounded but not overly pronounced. When viewed from the side, the body closely resembles a square shape. It appears very lightweight and elegant.

Конечности

The paws of the Picardy Spaniel are round, with well-defined pads. The hind legs have well-developed thighs and muscular calves. The fur on the thighs is somewhat longer than in other areas. However, the structure of the hind legs cannot be described as athletic. The front legs are straight, appear lightweight, and stand parallel to each other, straight.

Хвост

The tail of the Picardy Spaniel has a standard shape, of medium length, but not too short. It is carried cheerfully and never curls or bends towards the back. Kinks and knots are considered defects. Tail docking is only possible on veterinary advice in case of an injury sustained during work.

Шерсть

The coat of the Picardy Spaniel is dense, straight, or slightly wavy, of medium length, giving it an elegant appearance. It has special properties that allow the dog to avoid severe chilling while hunting and protects against moisture.

Окрас

Primarily brown. However, the main color includes specific white markings, which is why it is called brown roan. On the muzzle, legs, and body, black or white spots are not allowed, and the presence of black fur in general is also excluded.

Character

The Picardy Spaniel is renowned for its friendly and energetic nature. In addition, it is very loyal and loves to play with its owner’s family members, whom it considers close. Because of this, the hunting breed is also an optimal choice for those who want to adopt a puppy from a kennel not just as a hunting companion but also as a family dog. Let’s look at the main traits of the Picardy Spaniel’s temperament:

Loyalty and friendliness are typically expressed by these dogs with their tails held high, and they usually greet even strangers warmly. However, they can be cautious around unfamiliar people, which does not detract from their protective qualities. Of course, they cannot compete with Rottweilers, German Shepherds, or Russian Black Terriers in this regard, but they are quite capable of attracting attention with their sharp barking.

Their energy and love for an active lifestyle, which they require, stem from their intentional breeding as hunters. As a result, they need regular daily walks, playtime, and training to maintain their physical and emotional well-being.

Their intelligence and ability to learn new commands and tricks become apparent right away. Picardies learn quickly, especially when training occurs in a positive and encouraging environment. One could say that Picardies eagerly look forward to training sessions for various commands and tricks, as well as participating in sports events and competitions. Activities like agility, frisbee, or hide-and-seek-these spaniels will be at the frontlines of all such fun.

Their need for companionship is expressed in a strong attachment to their owners. These dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods. They require daily interaction, attention, and active participation in their family’s life. If left alone for too long, they may exhibit undesirable behaviors such as property destruction.

Joyfulness and a good mood are always by their side. They have the ability to bring fun and happiness into their owners’ everyday lives, making them excellent companions for a loving and active family.In summary, it is clear that the Picardy Spaniel is a wonderful dog breed with a friendly, energetic, and affectionate character. They are well-suited for families with children and other pets and can become great companions for active individuals who are ready to provide them with ample time, attention, and care.

Care and Maintenance

Acquiring such a beautiful, popular, but rare dog comes with great responsibility. In addition to specific costs for the pet itself, you need to purchase accessories like a collar, harness, leash, food and water bowls, nail clippers, shampoos, and other dog-related items. The active Picardy Spaniel is stunning, and their appearance impresses from the first weeks. To maintain your pet’s attractiveness, the owner must consider various nuances in the care and maintenance of a Picardy Spaniel.

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of the Picardy Spaniel. It’s important to take into account their age, size, activity level, and health condition when choosing the optimal diet. First and foremost, pay attention to the quality of the food. High-quality dry food, containing an optimal balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, is the preferred option. It’s better to choose food from well-known, reliable premium manufacturers, which will provide complete and balanced nutrition for your pet.

Holistic dog food is slightly more expensive, but the extra cost is worth it, as the dog feels noticeably better. When choosing food, consider the age of your Picardy Spaniel. Puppies should not receive food meant for older animals, as they require different vitamins and minerals. The right proportion of these nutrients will ensure proper growth and development. Adult dogs should have food that meets their needs based on their activity level and health condition.

You should always consider your Picardy Spaniel’s activity level when determining their food portion. More active dogs may need more food to provide sufficient energy. However, you should avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to excessive weight and related health problems. For convenience, manufacturers indicate the average portion size directly on the packaging. You just need to monitor your dog’s weight at first to find the right balance.

Also, pay attention to your dog’s digestive health. Some Picardy Spaniels may have difficulty processing certain ingredients and could experience health issues. In such cases, veterinary advice can help avoid potential problems.

Finally, water is a key element of your pet’s diet. Ensure they have access to fresh water throughout the day.In addition to their elegant silhouette, Picardy Spaniels are known for their unique coat, which must be maintained properly. Otherwise, the dog may lose its aristocratic appearance.Regular brushing of their thick double coat is an important aspect of care. This requires a special brush to remove dead hair and prevent matting. Not only does this help keep the coat healthy, but it also strengthens the bond between you. Occasional bathing, but not too frequently-only after heavy soiling during walks or work-is another aspect of their care. Over-bathing can lead to overactive sebaceous glands, resulting in a loss of natural oils. It is important to choose gentle shampoos specifically designed for breeds with thick fur, and after bathing, thoroughly dry the coat to avoid catching a cold.Regular grooming, especially around the ears, paws, and near the rear, helps prevent dirt buildup and maintain an aesthetic appearance. You can either use a professional grooming service or learn to groom the dog yourself using specialized tools and techniques. With real prof

Training and Education

Before choosing a puppy from a Picardy Spaniel kennel, we recommend familiarizing yourself with general guidelines for puppy training.

Start training as soon as you acquire your puppy. Basic commands such as “Sit,” “Lie Down,” and “No” are learned fairly quickly.

Use only positive reinforcement: rewards can include gentle petting, praise in a kind tone, and favorite treats. Such rewards will help teach your Picard and build its confidence.

Socialization plays an important role in raising a Picardy Spaniel. It’s worth noting that this breed has a calm disposition and social skills, so they should be introduced to various situations, places, and people from a young age. However, initial introductions should be conducted under supervision, considering the temperament of other animals. This will help your dog get used to different stimuli, avoid aggressive behavior, and learn to interact with other animals and people.

Regarding the development of hunting skills, for Picardy Spaniels, as with many other hunting dogs, it is important to focus on retrieve training, participation in hunting exercises, and games that develop their hunting instincts. Games like “Find the Game” and “Hide and Seek” effectively enhance their searching and retrieving skills. It is also essential to engage in field training, where the dog can learn to explore the terrain, follow scents, and obey the commands of the hunter-owner.

It is crucial to be patient, consistent, and give the dog time to master new skills. Some Picardy Spaniels can be stubborn, so it’s important to build training on trust and understanding. Don’t rush, as each dog has individual traits, and some may “catch on quickly,” while others may take a bit longer.If possible, it is advisable to consult with qualified dog trainers who specialize in training hunting dogs for more detailed and specialized advice. Check out such lists on Zooinika. You can also find the best choice of kennels in Russia on our site. Zooinika offers puppies with documentation and health guarantees.

How to Choose a Puppy

The first step is to find a reliable and professional breeder who has a reputation for breeding healthy and well-socialized Picardy Spaniels. Look for reviews of breeders online, for example, on Zooinika, the best choice of kennels in Russia. Talk to other Picardy Spaniel owners and ask for recommendations from breed specialists.

Check the health of the parents: typically, a good breeder provides information on the medical and genetic predisposition of the puppy’s parents to various diseases. Also, make sure the puppy has received all necessary vaccinations and parasite treatments.

Picardy Spaniels naturally have a balanced and friendly temperament. When visiting the kennel, assess the behavior of the puppies – they should be curious, playful, and quite active. Avoid choosing a puppy with overly fearful or aggressive behavior.

Ask the breeder to provide the puppy’s pedigree, which will show the lineage and any titles held by the parents. This can be important if you are considering the puppy for shows or breeding purposes. The price for such pets is higher.

Spend time with the puppy, play with it, and observe how it responds to your presence. This will help you determine if this particular puppy is right for you and your lifestyle.

Do not rush your decision and carefully consider all aspects of acquiring a Picardy Spaniel. By finding a suitable puppy with good genetics, a healthy body, and a pleasant character, you can enjoy a friendship with this wonderful breed for many years. Zooinika offers the best options with pedigrees from verified breeders.

Health and Diseases

The beauty of the Picardy Spaniel is matched only by the robustness of its immune system. Many other breeds would envy the excellent health of these dogs. The virtual absence of hereditary diseases greatly instills confidence when selecting a puppy from a kennel. As a result, these dogs can live an average of around 14 years or even longer.

However, as is well-known, every barrel of honey has a spoonful of tar: the structure of their ears carries an increased risk of ear diseases. Inflammations and otitis appear quite often in animals that frequently swim and participate in hunting. Moisture doesn’t fully drain from their ears through natural means, which sometimes leads to inflammatory processes. It’s easier to detect these issues if you check the inner surface of their ears after walks and wipe them more carefully after bathing your dog.

The agility of Picardy Spaniels is well-known, so dislocations also occur quite frequently. However, to be fair, it should be noted that Picardy dogs get injured much less often than, say, Basset Hounds or even Bloodhounds.

On the other hand, Picardy spaniels gain excess weight very quickly. The remedy for this lies in strictly adhering to physical exercise and monitoring caloric intake. A properly balanced diet facilitates care and weight management-future owners should keep this fact in mind.