French Spaniel

The French Spaniel is a friendly and open dog with a calm disposition. The pet is very sociable, feels bad without human attention. Aggression is not peculiar to him. He is devoted to his owner, always around. It treats children with particular trepidation, loves to play.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The French Spaniel appeared in France in the XVI-XVII centuries. The ancestors of the breed were dogs brought from Spain. It is known that the French Spaniel was kept at the court of Louis XII as early as 1512. This dog was used for partridge and pheasant hunting. English breeds were gradually replacing the Spaniel, and it became rare outside of France. The modern number of individuals is also quite low. The first standard for the breed was drawn up in 1891 by de Connick. The official standard was approved only in 2008.

Appearance

The French Spaniel is an athletic dog with powerful hips and shoulders. The chest is broad and deep, oval. The back is not long, with a strong loin. The head is large, rectangular, with an elongated forehead. The breed is characterized by a slightly concave back of the nose. The eyes are large, round, amber, or brown. The ears are long, floppy, rounded.

The limbs are straight, muscular. The paws are oval, with strong toes. The tail of the dog is sinuous, strong, slightly tapered toward the end. It is forbidden to cut. The coat is three-layered, medium length. The color is brown and white.

Character

The French Spaniel is a friendly and open dog with a calm disposition. The pet is very sociable, feels bad without human attention. Aggression is not peculiar to him. He is devoted to his owner, always around. It treats children with particular trepidation, loves to play. To strangers, the dog shows caution and distrust. In general, the dog is quiet, does not bark without reason. Special watchdog qualities are not different, but for the owner and family members will be a mountain.

Care

This dog requires constant physical activity as well as participation in hunting. Therefore, the best option for keeping a pet would be a country house. However, the Spaniel adapts to life in an apartment also quickly.

The dog is not fussy about grooming. Comb his hair once or twice a week. If molting, it should be done every day. Also, French Spaniel’s coats should be trimmed regularly. It is best to call a professional to do this. Bathe your dog rarely, only if necessary. Don’t forget to inspect and clean your pet’s ears.

Training

The French Spaniel is an intelligent and obedient dog that is easy to train. With flexible and patient training, your pet is sure to perform well. Do not be rude or use force toward your dog under any circumstances.

Lots of physical activity is a hypothesis. The dog is very energetic, capable of searching for a game for hours and following its master’s orders. The Spaniel is distinguished by its sharp sense of smell, persistence, and quick reaction time. With the right approach to training and education, he will turn out an excellent hunter.

Common Diseases

The French Spaniel is generally in relatively good health. Dogs of this breed are prone to the following diseases:

• hip dysplasia;
• otitis media;
• ophthalmological diseases;
• pyometra (in unsterilized bitches).

Carefully inspect and clean your pet’s floppy ears to avoid otitis media. It is also worth paying attention to dental health. If tartar is present, see your doctor. Don’t forget that your dog needs regular prophylaxis for blood-sucking parasites and worms.

Nutrition

A spaniel is an agile dog whose growing body requires a balanced diet. For a dog that is constantly engaged in hunting, it should consist of half meat. Fish and dairy products are also suitable. Do not forget about carbohydrates. Give your pet daily cereals, vegetables, and fruits in an amount of 150-180 grams. From these, the dog will get the necessary energy and enrich the body with vitamins and minerals.

Additional vitamin supplements can be used. Fats in a spaniel’s diet should be small – only 40-50 grams of oils and supplements will be enough. A dog that is constantly involved in hunting is more appropriate to feed high-quality industrial food.