Let's talk Petit Bleu de Gascogne dogs
The blue-ticked coat, the pendulous ears, the noble expression, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne has so much going for them. Instantly recognisable for their hallmark coat, this is a breed who earns points for their calm, even-keeled manner, intelligence and intuition. Bred as a scenthound in France for centuries, Petit Bleu de Gascogne dogs are still used for such but have found a spot on the family couch as well, where they will remain, content, simply waiting for caresses from their favourite humans.Official name: Petit Bleu de Gascogne
Other names: None
Origins: France
| Drooling tendencies: |
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Warm weather? |  |
| Shedding level: | |
Suited to apartment living? | |
| Physical activity needs (high, low, medium): | Moderate | Kid-friendly? |
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| Compatibility with other pets: | |
Can stay alone? |
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We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches.
Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour.
Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
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53 - 58 cm
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24 - 25 kg
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51 - 56 cm
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24 - 25 kg
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| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 12 months |
| Adult age | 1 to 7 years |
| Mature age | 7 to 10 years |
| Senior age | 10 years onwards |
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Get to know the Petit Bleu de Gascogne
All you need to know about the breed
Despite their nonstop life as a storied field dog, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne possesses a calm and docile demeanour. Perhaps it is all of those years out and about that gives them their always-energetic outlook on life.
A scenthound from way back, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne has a long history as a hunting dog and has been cherished for such in their native France. Although they are not a terribly common dog outside of its borders, that slate-blue mottled coat is a very common sight inside them.
It’s that notable covering that’s their hallmark trait, one that’s actually composed of black and white fur but reflects such that the colour comes off blue. It’s a wonder of Mother Nature, as is this dog’s stamina: the Petit Bleu de Gascogne can run in the field with their fellow canines for hours on end.
Speaking of, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne possesses a pack mentality that means family life is a no-brainer for this dog. They are superb with children, once trained, and bond very strongly with family members, not to mention fellow members of the canine pack.
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2 facts about Petit Bleu de Gascogne dogs
1. Grand et petit
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is the smaller version of fellow French breed, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, the former bred for chasing smaller game across the fields of France. There is no difference between the two dogs save for their height.
2. Giving voice to it
Hear that in the distance? It’s the unmistakable howl of the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, the sound that’s kept centuries of masters aware of the dog’s place in the field or forest, and their most celebrated characteristic. Aside from that lovely ticked slate-blue coat, that is.
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History of the breed
Like many of their French compatriots, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne can count various French hounds and the Hound of Saint Hubert (more commonly known as the Bloodhound) in their lineage. They are said to have originated in the 17th century when breeders wanted to develop a dog from this breed’s sibling, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, who could chase smaller game. The Petit Bleu de Gascogne was born.
As with many breeds, the World Wars threatened their mere existence but breeding efforts by those who knew and loved the Petit Bleu de Gascogne breed helped them maintain their presence in the hexagon.
The Petit Bleu de Gascogne was accepted into the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1963 and the United Kennel Club in 1991.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Petit Bleu de Gascogne dogs
1. Ears
Long, thin ears, attached very low.
2. Body
Sturdy body, broad chest, long muscular legs.
3. Coat
Hallmark black and white mottled coat giving off slate blue effect, short, dense hair.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Petit Bleu de Gascogne
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Caring for your Petit Bleu de Gascogne
Grooming, training and exercise tips
One of the pleasures of owning a Petit Bleu de Gascogne is grooming that hallmark blue-hued coat. Their fur is short and close-lying, coarse and thick, so requires just a simple weekly brushing, as well as an occasional bath (depending on how much time your dog spends outside). Brushing your dog’s teeth as often as you can is vital to keeping periodontal disease from developing. Trim their nails and clean those long ears often since they are a haven for debris picked up outdoors. The Petit Bleu de Gascogne will need lots of exercise. This is a dog still used widely in a rural setting, or owned by those with vast stretches of land, but if that’s not you, make sure to have a fully enclosed yard for them to run in, or take your Petit Bleu de Gascogne out for long walks a few times a day. The training regimen for the Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a simple one. They are very used to being with their fellow canines and obeying orders so will take commands very easily from those in charge.7/7
All about Petit Bleu de Gascogne dogs
This traditional French sporting breed is known for spending lots of time outdoors. In fact, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne thrives outside where they are used to traveling in packs and with their owner.
As a family dog, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne definitely stacks up. They possess a docile manner and enjoy spending time with their human pack as much as they do with their canine - and that’s saying a lot. The breed is excellent with children, once trained, even playing with them, though as with any breed, should not be left unsupervised.
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Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/