Overview
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a French scenthound used for hunting in packs. Despite the name it is not a small dog, because petit refers to the small game it hunts.
It is calm and easy to handle in a pack.
History
It descends from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, an ancient hound type used on wolves, bears and boar. Smaller examples were chosen for hare and other small game and eventually became a separate breed.
Its ancestors lived alongside the St. Hubert Hounds hunted by the Comte de Foix in the 14th century.
Appearance
A medium-large hound standing 52 to 58 cm, females slightly smaller. The coat is white mottled with black, giving a slate blue look, with black patches on each side of the head and tan marks over the eyes that create a four-eyed effect.
Temperament
It works well in a pack and is calm and easy to handle. Pack hunting dogs generally do not make good pets.
Care and exercise
It needs lots of exercise and company, and is best in a working pack or a very active home with space. The short coat needs little grooming.
Health
No unusual health problems have been documented.
