Let's talk Blue Picardy Spaniels
First things first, the “blue” is a subtle, greyish hue, just in case you were imagining some kind of Smurf dog. Colouring aside, Blue Picardy Spaniels’ sweet characters are as pleasing as their appearance—all silky dappled fur, and big gentle eyes. These lovely dogs come from the flatlands of northern France, where they were originally bred as hunters, prized for their hardiness and ease of training. Nowadays, with their docile, affectionate and playful characters, Blue Picardy Spaniels are just as likely to occupy the role of much-loved family pet.Official name: Blue Picardy Spaniel
Other names: Epagneul Bleu de Picardie
Origins: France
Drooling tendencies | Warm weather? | ||
Shedding level | Suited to apartment living? | ||
Energy level (high, low, medium) *: | High | Family pet? * |
|
Compatibility with other pets | Can stay alone? * |
* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.
For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.
Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.
All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.
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: | From 10 years |
1/7
Origins of the breed
For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.
The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.
2/7
2 facts about Blue Picardy Spaniels
1. Sacré Bleu!
Think of the Blue Picardy Spaniel as the updated version of the original Picardy Spaniel from northern France: The New Blue, if you like. The two breeds are similar, but the Picardy Spaniel is older. The Blue Picardy Spaniel breed is thought to be the result of crosses between Picardy Spaniels and setter breeds brought over to France from the UK.
2. Rare roaning
That beautiful coat may be their most distinctive feature, but when they are born, Blue Picardy Spaniels puppies are a much more prosaic mix of white with black patches. Don’t worry, you haven’t accidentally acquired a Dalmatian (although they are great dogs too!)—their markings, a mix of black and white hairs that together form that grey-blue effect are called “roaning”, and develop as they grow.
History of the breed
The Blue Picardy Spaniel hails from the marshy areas of northern France, where the breed was originally developed to help hunt the region’s plentiful wildfowl. As well as strong scenting skills, the breed is known as a great retriever.
Spaniels had of course already existed in France for many centuries before the emergence of this charming breed at around the end of the 19th century. It is thought that Picardy Spaniels (a similar but separate breed) were crossed with the setters brought over by British hunters. That explains the extravagantly beautiful blue-grey coat, a product of crossing with English breeds known for their distinctive “blue belton” markings. The Blue Picardy Spaniel was recognised as a separate breed in France in 1938.
4/7
From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Blue Picardy Spaniels
1. Fur
Grey/black speckles giving a bluish tint with black patches.
2. Coat
Long wavy coat, silky ears, fringing on tail and legs.
3. Body
Slim but strong build, upright bearing.
5/7
Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Blue Picardy Spaniel
6/7
Caring for your Blue Picardy Spaniel
Grooming, training and exercise tips
Those wavy blue-grey locks may look high-maintenance but they’re actually pretty easy to look after, with little need for grooming—just a weekly brush will do fine.
Blue Picardy Spaniels were bred for their energy and endurance and nowadays, still need plenty of exercise. Runs off the lead in a safely enclosed space (otherwise scenting instinct plus stamina may equal lengthy escape attempts …) as well as walks with their owner or chasing and fetching games are all good.
These docile dogs are easy to train—working with humans is in their nature. Just remember to take any treats out of their daily kibble.
7/7
All about All about Blue Picardy Spaniels
Blue Picardy Spaniels do shed a little throughout the year, losing more hair during the shedding season, but they are not the worst offender among dog breeds. A weekly groom should keep those beautiful dappled coats in good order.
Blue Picardy Spaniels are not known for their barking, although they may let out a woof or two if strangers approach their home and their humans. In any case, unwanted barking should be easily fixed as these dogs are renowned for their responsiveness to training.
Остале расе које би вас могле занимати
Read more on this topic
How your dog's nutrition needs change with age
How to adopt a dog
Things to consider before getting a dog
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/