Overview
The Ariège Pointer, or Braque de l'Ariège, is a pointing dog from the Ariège département in south-western France. It is well suited to hunting wild hare and partridge.
It is quick, energetic and independent, so it does best with an owner who offers regular training and plenty of activity.
History
Hunters in Ariège used a local pointing type said to descend from crosses of the Perdiguero de Burgos and the Bracco Italiano.
Numbers fell sharply over the two World Wars. In 1990 a team of breeders, led by Alain Deteix, set out to save the breed and bring it back.
Appearance
A normally proportioned, powerful dog that is never heavy, with drop ears and a short coat. The coat is mainly white with larger orange, liver or chestnut patches, especially on the head and ears. Height at the withers is about 60 to 67 cm. The tail is traditionally docked.
Temperament
Lively and independent, it enjoys work and can be strong-willed. It needs consistent training and a job to do.
Care and exercise
This is a working hunting dog that needs lots of daily exercise and mental activity. Regular training from an early age is important. The short coat is easy to maintain with weekly brushing.
