Overview
The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie is a medium-sized French scenthound, usually worked in packs. It is one of the Anglo-French hounds, created by crossing French scenthounds with English foxhounds.
"Petite" refers to the small game it hunts and not to the dog's size. It is mostly a hunting dog and may not suit city or family life.
History
The breed was developed from older Anglo-French hounds crossed with the Harrier, Poitevin, Petit Gascon-Saintongeois and Petit Bleu de Gascogne. French hunting hounds have a long history, with local types recorded in the sixteenth century.
Before 1978 it was called the Petit Anglo-Français. The FCI recognised it in 1983, and it is also recognised by the United Kennel Club in North America.
Appearance
This is a medium-sized hound built for stamina, with the drop ears typical of scenthounds. It is the smallest of the Anglo-French hound breeds.
Temperament
Bred to work in packs, it is an active, determined hound that is used to the company of other dogs. It is not usually kept as a pet or show dog.
Care and exercise
It needs a lot of exercise, space and a purposeful outlet for its scenting drive. Because of its drop ears, the ears should be checked and cleaned regularly.
Health
No breed-specific health problems are documented. Like other drop-eared breeds, the area under the ear can be prone to infection.
