Overview
The Pachón Navarro is a short-haired Spanish pointing dog from Navarre, one of five Basque breeds. It is among the oldest pointers of the Iberian peninsula and was long used to hunt game birds.
Today it is rare and considered vulnerable, kept mainly by hunters and enthusiasts devoted to its survival.
History
Medieval art suggests the Pachón is very old. In the 19th century it spread across Spain under many names and appeared at the earliest Spanish shows. It was recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina in 1911, but by the 1970s was believed extinct.
A census began recovery in 1979, breed societies formed in 2001 and 2002, Navarre published a standard in 2006, and Spain recognised it in 2010. The FCI does not recognise it.
Appearance
A medium-sized, short-haired pointer. The coat is highly variable and may be one, two or three colours, most often patches and specks of black, chestnut, liver or orange on a white ground.
A few dogs have a split or bifid nose, a trait also seen in the Turkish Tarsus çatalburun.
Temperament
A keen, steady hunting companion with a strong nose and a willingness to work alongside its handler. At home it is generally calm, loyal and affectionate with its family.
Care and exercise
Needs plenty of daily exercise and the chance to use its nose in open country. The short coat needs only occasional brushing.
Check and clean the ears regularly and keep it engaged with training and scent work.
