Overview
The Saint-Usuge Spaniel is a French pointing spaniel from the Bresse region. It is obedient, affectionate and easy to train, and works well in swamp, water and thicket.
The French kennel club recognised it in 2003, and it is not yet recognised by the FCI.
History
The breed dates back to at least the 16th century but was nearly extinct by the end of World War II. Father Robert Billard searched for surviving dogs after the war and found a female named Poupette and later a male named Dick. A Small Münsterländer female was added in 1962.
His programme bred nearly 250 dogs over 33 years. A breed club was founded in 1990 and more than 1,200 dogs have been bred since.
Appearance
A small French pointing breed standing 41 to 53 cm. It has typical spaniel looks, with ears set below eye level and fringes long enough to reach the nose tip. The chest is broad and deep. The coat is brown, sometimes with white markings, and the tail is long, curved and never docked.
Temperament
The breed club describes it as easy to train, obedient, passionate and affectionate. It is a keen worker that bonds well with its people.
Care and exercise
A hunting spaniel, it needs regular vigorous exercise and a job to do, and suits active owners. Brush the fringes regularly and check the ears.
