Overview
The Billy is a large French scenthound that comes from Poitou in western France. It is still kept mainly in hunting packs and remains rare.
It is a fast, enduring hound used on roe deer and wild boar, with a distinctive pale coat.
History
The breed was created in the 19th century by Gaston Hublot de Rivault, who named it after his home, the Château de Billy. He combined the three old strains of the Poitevin hound, choosing the paler colours.
The pack was dispersed in 1927 and only two hounds survived World War II. His son revived the breed using the Poitevin, the Porcelaine and the Harrier. The Billy also helped found the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange.
Appearance
A tall, elegant hound with a short, smooth, slightly harsh coat. Males stand about 60 to 70 cm and females 58 to 62 cm, with weight up to around 47 kg.
The coat is white, off-white or grey, sometimes with orange or lemon patches on the head and body. Its movement is easy and flowing, with a free gallop.
Temperament
Like most pack hounds, the Billy is sociable, keen and driven by scent. It gets on well with other dogs and is generally friendly with people.
It is happiest with a job to do and plenty of space to run.
Care and exercise
This is a working hound that needs lots of exercise and room to roam, so it suits rural homes better than city flats. Secure fencing is important because it will follow a scent.
Grooming is easy: an occasional brush will do.
