Overview
The Chien Français Tricolore, or French Tricolour Hound, is a large French scenthound used for hunting in packs. Groups of dogs are hunted together and always directed by a person.
It is a classic French pack hound: lean, muscular and long-legged, built for stamina over long days.
History
The breed belongs to the family of large French pack hounds developed for hunting game in organised packs. Breeders protected its type by excluding any trace of crossing with English hounds.
It remains mainly a hunting dog in France.
Appearance
A lean, muscular hound with long legs, an elongated head with a noticeable occipital protuberance, long drop ears and slightly square flews. It stands 62 to 72 cm at the withers, with females slightly smaller.
The coat is tricolour with a wide black mantle and bright tan markings. A grizzled shade called louvard, meaning wolf-like, also occurs.
Temperament
A pack hunter by nature, it works in company and under human direction rather than running off alone.
Dogs bred for pack hunting usually do not make good pets, as their drive and need for activity are high.
Care and exercise
This hound needs a great deal of daily exercise and purposeful work, and is best suited to hunting homes. Secure fencing is important because it follows scent.
The short coat needs only occasional brushing; check the ears and keep them clean.
