Overview
The Picardy Spaniel is one of the oldest continental spaniels, bred in northern France as a hunting companion. It is bigger than most spaniels, close to an English Setter in size, with a rugged, weatherproof coat.
It is calm and affectionate, easy to live with, and still prized by hunters of woodland and marsh.
History
The breed is thought to descend from the old Chien d'Oysel described by Gaston Phoebus and was a favourite of French nobility. It featured in paintings by Desportes and Oudry. Hunting opened to everyone after the Revolution, and the breed thrived in the north-west.
British hunters arrived with their own dogs in the 19th and early 20th centuries and popularity declined; English Setter blood also produced the Blue Picardy Spaniel. A breed club formed in 1921.
Appearance
A square, muscular dog about 56 to 61 cm tall and 20 to 25 kg. The head is oval with a long muzzle and low-hanging ears. The abundant coat is slightly wavy and comes in chestnut or brown with white and sandy markings.
Temperament
Docile, sociable and fond of children, with a laid-back attitude and a good willingness to learn. It bonds closely with its owner.
Care and exercise
Needs regular exercise and enjoys open space and water, though it adapts to a small home if walked well. Brush a few times a week and clean the ears. Avoid overfeeding.
Health
No major hereditary problems are known and the average lifespan is around 14 years. Pendulous ears make ear infections the main concern, and it can gain weight if overfed.
