Welcome to our exciting exploration of the world of French-origin dogs, a celebration of canine diversity and excellence. In this article, we invite you to discover 20 iconic breeds (or rather 21 to be precise) that originated on French soil, reflecting our rich heritage and deep love for our four-legged friends. From the grace of the barbet to the energy of the Briard, the intelligence of the poodle, and the robustness of the Bordeaux Mastiff, each breed embodies the very essence of elegance, loyalty, and tradition. Get ready to be amazed by the variety of sizes, coats, beauty, and unique characters that make these French dogs exceptional companions, and dive into the captivating world of these wonderful creatures that have conquered our hearts over the centuries.
The Ariegeois
The Ariegeois is a breed of dog originating from Ariège, a French department known for its mountainous landscape. This medium-sized scent hound is easily recognizable by its tricolor or black and white coat. With an elegant and athletic appearance, the Ariegeois is a versatile and hardworking companion. With an average weight of 55 to 59.5 pounds [25-27 kg] for males and females, and a height ranging from 20.5 to 23 inches [52-58 cm] for males and 19.5 to 22 inches [50-56 cm] for females, the Ariegeois indeed displays a balanced and harmonious silhouette. Traditionally used as a hunting dog, the Ariegeois is appreciated for its perseverance and developed sense of smell. Its enterprising and sociable personality makes it an excellent pack dog and a loyal companion for hunters. Apart from its hunting function, the Ariegeois is also valued as a family dog due to its affectionate and happy nature. It is known for being easily trained, making it a pleasant companion to live with. With its well-established reputation, the Ariegeois is a cherished member of the French canine community and a popular breed in France, both for its hunting qualities and for its loving temperament and ability to adapt to family life. Its original French name is also Ariégeois.
The Barbet
The Barbet, a French breed of dog dating back to the Middle Ages, is a true water dog. It belongs to Group 8 of recognized purebred dogs by the International Cynological Federation. With a small build, webbed feet, and a curly coat, the Barbet has a unique look. Its lifespan is estimated to be between 13 and 15 years, and its size varies from 20.5 to 24.5 inches [52-62 cm] for females and 22.5 to 26 inches [57-66 cm] for males. Originating from France, the Barbet comes in several coat colors, such as black, white, fawn, brown, and gray. Its intelligent, cheerful, sociable, and obedient nature makes it an ideal companion for many families. It has an average weight of 31 to 50.5 pounds [14-23 kg] for females and 37.5 to 61.5 pounds [17-28 kg] for males. Its long, woolly, and curly coat gives it a distinct appearance. With its adaptability and versatility, the Barbet can be both an excellent hunting dog and a faithful companion. Furthermore, its dense and waterproof coat makes it an ideal companion for aquatic activities, including water rescue. A proud representative of French canine heritage, the Barbet embodies the history and excellence of French regions. Its original French name is also Barbet.
The Basset Artesien Normand
The Basset Artesien Normand is a French breed of hunting dog. This basset-type scent hound is characterized by its long, low-slung silhouette. Its coat comes in tricolor or bicolor fawn and white, giving it a distinctive appearance. With an average weight of 37.5 pounds [17 kg] as an adult and a height ranging from 12 to 14 inches [30-36 cm], this compact and muscular dog is well-suited for its role as a small game hunter. In addition to its use in hunting, the Basset Artesien Normand also makes an excellent companion dog. Indeed, its endearing and affectionate personality, as well as its balanced temperament, make it a loyal and pleasant companion to live with. Its tail, carried like a saber and just reaching the ground, adds to its charm. The Basset Artesien Normand is therefore a versatile dog, serving as both a hunting companion and a life companion. Its original French name is also Basset Artésien Normand.
The Beauceron
Originating from the Beauce region in France, the Beauceron, also known as the Beauceron Shepherd or Red Stocking, is a renowned French dog breed known for its versatility, intelligence, and loyalty. Robust and powerful, it is traditionally used to drive and protect livestock. With an athletic and muscular silhouette, this shepherd dog is distinguished by its imposing head, straight ears, and double-layered coat composed of short, dense fur. Beaucerons are known for their vigilance and devotion to their family, making them excellent guard dogs and companions as well. Their balanced temperament and great adaptability make them ideal partners for various activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking. With an average weight of 70.5 to 99 pounds [32-45 kg] for males and 66 to 86 pounds [30-39 kg] for females, and a height ranging between 26 and 28 inches [66-71 cm] for males and 25 and 26 inches [64-66 cm] for females, the Beauceron has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Recognizable by their black and tan, black & rust, harlequin, and tricolor coats, this dog stands out for its intelligent, protective, friendly, fearless, and calm character. Whether semi-erect or drooping, their ears add to their charm and majestic appearance. Due to their energetic nature and need for exercise, Beaucerons thrive in environments where they can be actively engaged physically and mentally. As an iconic French dog breed, the Beauceron embodies the qualities of work, loyalty, and courage associated with its rural French origins.
The Briard
The Briard, also known as the Berger de Brie (the word "berger" means shepherd in French), is a French shepherd dog originating from the guarding and herding of flocks. Recognizable by its bearded constitution and long, dense coat, the Briard is a dynamic and energetic dog. Its lifespan is estimated to be between 10 and 12 years, and its size varies from 22 to 25.5 inches [56-65 cm] for females and from 23 to 27 inches [58-69 cm] for males. Endowed with an intelligent, loyal, fearless, obedient, protective, and faithful character, it makes an excellent companion for the whole family. Its average weight is 50.5 to 75 pounds [23-34 kg] for females and 59.5 to 90 pounds [27-41 kg] for males. The Briard presents a variety of coats, including black, white, fawn, gray, gray and black, as well as fawn and black. Historically used as a shepherd dog, it possesses strong protective and working instincts. Its perceptiveness and ability to learn quickly make it a versatile dog, excelling as a companion dog, working dog, or show dog. With its majestic appearance and French origin, the Briard proudly embodies the canine heritage of France.
The Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd, a French breed of dog dating back to the Middle Ages, encompasses two variants: the long-haired Pyrenean Shepherd and the smooth-faced Pyrenean Shepherd. Recognizable by its sturdy constitution and small size, it has an energetic temperament and a lifespan of 15 to 17 years. Its size varies from 15.5 to 18.5 inches [39-47 cm] for males and from 15 to 18 inches [38-46 cm] for females, measured at the withers. The Pyrenean Shepherd comes in a variety of coats, including white, black, merle, brindle, fawn, blue merle, and gray. Its average weight ranges from 15.5 to 33 pounds [7-15 kg]. This dog stands out for its devoted, clever, vigilant, energetic, easy-to-train, and authoritative character. Its quick wit and intelligence make it a highly valued companion, demonstrating unwavering loyalty to its master and family. Whether for herding work or as a companion dog, the Pyr Shep is a wise choice for those seeking a versatile and devoted dog. Its coat can be long or medium-length, capable of forming tassels in the case of long hair. Originating from France, the Pyrenean Shepherd brilliantly represents the French canine heritage. Its original French name is "Berger des pyrénées".
The Berger Picard
The Berger Picard, a French shepherd dog breed originating from Picardy, is distinguished by its robust build, short legs, and assertive character. Recognizable by its medium size, males measuring from 23.5 to 25.5 inches [60-65 cm] and females from 21.5 to 23.5 inches [55-60 cm], it has a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Its weight ranges from 50.5 to 70.5 pounds [23-32 kg] for both sexes. The Berger Picard sports fawn and gray coats. Its ears are set quite high, always carried naturally erect, with slightly rounded tips, measuring approximately 4 inches [10 cm] in length. This dog stands out for its intelligent, lively, energetic, stubborn, and calm character. With a strong temperament, it excels as a working dog, demonstrating great endurance and liveliness. Towards its family, the Berger Picard is affectionate and shows unwavering loyalty. It is also a pleasant companion for outdoor activities. Versatile in its roles as a working and companion dog, the Berger Picard is appreciated for its unwavering attachment to its loved ones. Its French origin, particularly from Picardy, reinforces its identity linked to the national canine heritage.
The French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, a dog breed of French origin dating back to the 19th century, is distinguished by its brachycephalic build, small size of about 14 inches [35 cm], and charming appearance. Recognizable by its flat skull, drooping ears, and imposing musculature, the French Bulldog belongs to the molosser family. Its lively, playful, easy-going, sociable, enthusiastic, affectionate, alert, athletic, and patient character makes it a beloved life companion. Sporting coats of white, brindle, fawn, light brown, and brindle and white, this dog has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years and weighs between 17.5 and 31 pounds [8-14 kg]. The "Bouledogue français", as we call it in France, is a dog full of vitality and energy, ready to share many moments of happiness with its family. Originating from France and England, this breed, which first appeared in the Orient with the Sumerian Molosser, holds a significant place among loyal companion dogs. Its unique appearance and distinctive traits give it instant recognition in the canine world.
The Bourbonnais Pointer
The Bourbonnais Pointer, a dog breed of French origin dating back to the 16th century, is distinguished by its elegant and athletic medium-sized build, with short hair. As a hunting dog, the Bourbonnais Pointer holds a prominent place. Endowed with exceptional scenting abilities and great agility, it is the ideal companion for hunting activities. Its balanced character and great docility also make it a pleasant companion in everyday life. The versatility of the Bourbonnais Pointer is widely recognized, allowing it to adapt to different types of hunting, such as small game hunting, game retrieval, or blood tracking. Affectionate, intelligent, kind, cooperative, calm, and pleasant, this rugged dog is distinguished by its coat with a white background finely speckled with brown or ticked with fawn, known as "Brown ticked" and "Fawn ticked". With a weight of 35 to 48.5 pounds [16-22 kg] for females and 39.5 to 55 pounds [18-25 kg] for males, and a height of 18.5 to 22 inches [47-56 cm] for females and 19.5 to 23 [50-58 cm] for males, the Bourbonnais Pointer is a medium-sized pointing dog. Originating from France, this passionate and determined dog is ready to face any challenges that come its way. Its drooping ears slightly exceed the throat, while its rounded eyes are hazel or dark amber in color. The "Braque du Bourbonnais" (French name) showcases the excellence of French canine breeds.
The Poodle
The Poodle, a dog breed whose roots are in France, is distinguished by its elegant build and curly fur, giving it a unique appearance. With an athletic look, the Poodle, or "Caniche" in French, is a dog that is both graceful and resilient. But what particularly sets it apart is its remarkable intelligence. The Poodle is known for its great learning ability and quick wit, placing it among the most intelligent dog breeds. It is known for its deep attachment and unwavering loyalty to its master, showing exceptional devotion to its human family. Originating from Germany and France, the Poodle was once a dog adapted to duck hunting in the water, descended from the Barbet. With a size varying according to its variety, the Toy Poodle measures between 9.5 and 11 inches [24-28 cm], the Miniature Poodle between 11 and 14 inches [28-35 cm], the Standard Poodle between 17.5 and 23.5 inches [45-60 cm], and the Medium Poodle between 14 and 17.5 inches [35-45 cm]. Its lifespan is estimated between 12 and 15 years. The Poodle comes in different coats, such as black, white, apricot, sand, cream, black and white, blue, brown, silver, red, and gray. Intelligent, alert, active, easy to train, instinctive, and loyal, the Poodle is an ideal companion for those seeking a dog that is both intelligent and loyal, capable of forming strong bonds with its family. The Poodle, heir to a long history, remains a highly appreciated and admired dog breed in France.
The Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees, also known as the Patou, is an imposing and majestic breed originating from France. Its robust constitution and imposing stature make it an ideal large-sized dog for guarding and protecting herds in the mountain pastures. With its magnificent thick and long coat, it is perfectly adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of mountainous regions like the Pyrenees from which it takes its name. However, behind its impressive appearance lies a gentle and calm character. The Great Pyrenees, or Pyrenean Mountain Dog, is an ancient herding dog breed primarily used in the southwest of France and northeastern Spain to protect herds from predators, including bears. The French call it “Chien de montagne des Pyrénées”. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, it is distinguished by its fearless, affectionate, resolute, confident, gentle, and patient nature. Males can weigh between 99 and 161 pounds [45-73 kg], while females weigh between 86 and 114.5 pounds [39-52 kg]. In terms of height, males measure from 27.5 to 32.5 inches [70-82 cm] at the withers, while females measure from 25.5 to 29 inches [65-74 cm]. Its coat can vary between white, flame, red, gray, and badger. The ears of the Great Pyrenees are drooping, rather small, and located at eye level. Renowned for its unwavering loyalty to its herd and master, it is also an excellent family companion. Its calm and balanced nature allows it to get along with all members of the household, including children. With the Great Pyrenees by your side, you'll have a faithful companion and attentive guardian to watch over your family.
The Cursinu
The Cursinu is a dog breed originating from Corsica, the Mediterranean island in the south of France, with origins dating back to at least the 16th century. Although its recognition by the French Kennel Club dates back only to 2003, the Cursinu is a versatile working dog known for its skills. Endowed with a docile, loyal character, and deeply attached to its master, it develops a close relationship with whoever takes care of it. Weighing around 55 pounds [25 kg] and standing at a height ranging from 18 to 23 inches [46-58 cm] for males and 18 to 21.5 inches [46-55 cm] for females, the Cursinu presents a robust and balanced appearance. Its coat, well provided, can be short or medium-length, offering suitable protection for living conditions on the Island of Beauty. Its tail can be long or medium-sized, adding to its distinctive appearance. The Cursinu is therefore an authentic and versatile dog, originating from France, which has preserved its working qualities and a strong bond with its master over the centuries.
The Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as Bordeaux Mastiff or French Mastiff, is a dog breed originating from France. With its massive head, muscular body, and imposing stature, the Dogue de Bordeaux commands attention. However, behind its intimidating appearance lies a gentle and affectionate character. It is extremely loyal to its family, ready to protect and defend them. Despite its imposing size, the Dogue de Bordeaux is a calm and balanced dog. It shows patience and tolerance towards children, making it an excellent family companion. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a molosser-type dog, known for its placidity, devotion, loyalty, good companionship, vigilance, and courage. Males weigh between 119 and 143.5 pounds [54-65 kg], while females also weigh between 119 and 143.5 pounds [54-65 kg]. In terms of height, males measure between 23.5 and 26.5 inches [60-67 cm] at the withers, while females measure between 22.5 and 25.5 inches [57-65 cm]. Its coat can vary between fawn, mahogany, and red. The Dogue de Bordeaux's coat is fine, short, and soft. It is important to emphasize that this breed requires early socialization and firm yet gentle training to channel its strength and potential. Additionally, due to its muscular build, the Dogue de Bordeaux requires special attention in terms of health and well-being. By choosing a Dogue de Bordeaux, you not only get an impressive dog but also a loving and devoted companion who will be an integral part of your family.
The Brittany Spaniel
Originating from France, the Brittany Spaniel, whose traditional name is “Epagneul Breton”, traces its roots back to the 17th century. With its athletic build and dynamic appearance, the Brittany Spaniel is a true canine athlete. Renowned for its obedience and exceptional hunting instinct, it is a versatile hunting dog native to Brittany, initially used as a pointer, capable of adapting to different types of game, excellent at flushing and retrieving. Its size varies between 18.5 and 20.5 inches [47-52 cm] for males and between 18 and 20 inches [46-51 cm] for females, with a weight ranging between 31 and 39.5 pounds [14-18 kg] for both sexes. The coats of the Brittany Spaniel can be tricolored, orange and white, liver and white, roan, black and white, or piebald. In terms of temperament, this dog is attentive, intelligent, happy, agile, fast, and adaptable. Despite its lively temperament, it is also gentle and sociable towards members of its family. It thrives when surrounded by people who provide the attention and affection it needs. By choosing a Brittany Spaniel, you not only get a loyal companion but also a competent hunting partner and a loyal friend for life.
The Papillon Continental Toy Spaniel
The Papillon Continental Toy Spaniel is a French-origin dog breed known for its small size and athletic appearance. Despite its small stature, ranging from 8 to 11 inches [20-28 cm], this little companion is endowed with remarkable intelligence. The Papillon is a variety of dog within the Continental Toy Spaniel breed. Recognizable by its butterfly ears, it is also called so because of its elegance and graceful appearance. With a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, the Papillon Continental Toy Spaniel weighs between 8 and 10 pound [3.6-4.5 kg] for adult males and between 7 and 9 pounds [3.2-4.1 kg] for adult females. Its coat is long and slightly wavy. Endowed with quick wit and rapid learning ability, it makes an excellent companion dog. Its intelligent, friendly, energetic, happy, and alert character makes it a joyful companion for the whole family. Indeed, the Papillon is also sociable and gets along well with children and other pets. This breed originates from France, Belgium, and Spain. Its official name in France is “Epagneul nain continental papillon”. If you are looking for an intelligent, friendly, and energetic companion, the Papillon Continental Toy Spaniel could be the ideal dog for you.
The Picardy Spaniel
The Picardy Spaniel is a dog breed from France whose history dates back to the Middle Ages. Originating from Picardy, in northern France, the Picardy Spaniel is closely related to the Blue Picardy Spaniel, although it is the older breed of the two. With a size ranging from 21.5 to 24.5 inches [55-62 cm] for males and 21.5 to 23.5 [55-60 cm] for females, this dog is distinguished by its endurance and liveliness. Recognizable by its gray and brown coat, the Picardy Spaniel has thick fur, not very silky, fine on the head, and slightly wavy on the body. Docile and sociable, it is renowned for its affectionate, active, and devoted character. It adapts easily to different environments and is appreciated for its ease of training. Its friendly temperament towards other dogs and people makes it an ideal companion for walks and outdoor activities. Its elegant silhouette and lively gaze give it a charming and attractive appearance. Weighing around 44 pounds [20 kg], the Picardy Spaniel is an energetic dog that will joyfully accompany its owners on their adventures. Its French name is simply “Epagneul picard”.
The French Tricolour Hound
The French Tricolour Hound, a proud dog breed of French origin, embodies grandeur and beauty. Commonly known as “Français tricolore” in his home country, this large-sized, well-built, and muscular dog sports an elegant tricolour coat, mixing black, white, and tan. The breed emerged in 1957 from careful crossbreeding of various large-sized French scenthound breeds, including the Poitou Hound, the Billy, and the French Tricolour Hound. With a size ranging from 24.5 to 27.5 inches [62-70 cm] and an adult weight oscillating between 61.5 and 66 pounds [28-30 kg], the French Tricolour imposes its majestic presence. Its short, fine coat highlights its athletic silhouette. Its elongated head is adorned with a distinctive occipital bump and a well-defined stop, while its large brown eyes express intelligence and liveliness. The ears, drooping and slightly turned, add charm to its noble appearance, while its long tail testifies to its natural grace. However, the French Tricolour Hound is known for its independent, courageous, but also somewhat difficult to train temperament. This hound dog is traditionally used for deer hunting, where its tracking skills and endurance are put to good use. The French Tricolour Hound, a symbol of French hunting heritage, combines beauty, power, and a unique temperament that make it both fascinating and demanding.
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne, whose origin dates back to the 14th century, is a remarkable dog breed originating from the magnificent cultural region of Gascogne, the former Southwest province located between the Atlantic Ocean, the Garonne River, and the Pyrénées Mountains, in France. This large-sized scenthound, with its distinctive blue coat, embodies power and elegance. With a size ranging from 25.5 to 28.5 inches [65-72 cm] for males and 24.5 to 27 inches [62-68 cm] for females, as well as a weight ranging from 77 to 86 pounds [35-39 kg], the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is an imposing and robust companion. Its coat can present different variations, including tricolour, slate blue, black and white, or blue & black, adding to its undeniable charm. Endowed with an intelligent, stubborn, and active character, this dog is renowned for its hunting skills. It excels particularly in shooting or hunting of big game. The Midlands region is particularly conducive to its breeding, and this is where it is most widespread. The Grand Bleu de Gascogne, a symbol of French culture and tradition, is a breed that combines strength, beauty, and exceptional hunting capabilities.
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a dog breed of French origin with undeniable charm. Originating from Vendée in France, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a Basset Griffon with rough and coarse hair, available in many colors. With a height of 12.5 to 16 inches [32-40 cm] at the withers and a weight ranging from 33 to 44 pounds [15-20 kg], this small-sized dog stands out for its robust build and liveliness. Its dynamic appearance gives it great agility, making it an ideal companion for outdoor activities. Confident, enthusiastic, and friendly, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen possesses an extroverted and independent character. He enjoys spending time with his owners and is appreciated as a companion dog in Europe. Recognizable by its characteristic beard and eyebrows, it has an endearing personality. With a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, this energetic and joyful dog is ready to share many adventures with its owners. Its coats can be tricolored, black and tan, black and white, fawn and white, or fawn and black. The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, with its unique physique and active temperament, is an ideal companion to accompany you in your daily life.
The Petit Chien Lion
The Petit Chien Lion, a dog breed of French origin dating back to the 15th century, is a true canine jewel. Originating from France, the Petit Chien Lion is appreciated for its elegant appearance and presence that do not go unnoticed. Its long and silky coat gives it a royal look, hence its nickname "Lion Dog". With a height of 12 to 14 inches [30-36 cm], both for females and males, this faithful companion stands out for its assertive character and its ability to shine in dog shows. Endowed with keen intelligence, the Petit Chien Lion is alert and quick to learn. Its light and graceful gait testify to its natural elegance. The coats of this breed can be black, black and silver, cream, black and tan, chocolate, or blue. Cheerful, playful, and friendly, this active dog thrives in a family environment. With a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years and a weight ranging from 11 to 17.6 pounds [5-8 kg] for adult males, and from 9 to 13 pounds [4-6 kg] for adult females, the Petit Chien Lion is ready to accompany you in your activities. A French dog breed, but also with German and European influences, this breed evolved from crossings between poodles, bichons, and barbets, although its exact origin remains unknown. If you are looking for a refined companion, full of charm and ready to accompany you, the Petit Chien Lion is a breed to consider.
Le Porcelaine
The Porcelaine, a dog breed that originated in the 18th century in Franche-Comté, in the Eastern part of France, is a devoted companion with exceptional hunting talents. Recognizable by its medium-sized build, short coat, and white-spotted coat, this dog possesses a noble and graceful appearance. With a height of 22 to 23 inches [56-58 cm] for males and 21 to 22 inches [54-56 cm] for females, the Porcelaine sports a pear-shaped head, thin long pendulous ears, flecked, and dark brown to black eyes. This scenthound dog breed is built for speed and is distinguished by its powerful sense of smell and remarkable endurance. Excelling in tracking and pursuing game, the Porcelaine is the ideal partner for hunting enthusiasts. However, it is not limited to its hunting skills alone, as it is also gentle and affectionate towards its family. With a weight of 55 to 62 pounds [25-28 kg] for both males and females, this active dog will also meet the expectations of canine sports enthusiasts. If you are looking for a devoted companion, both athletic and gentle, the Porcelaine dog will meet your expectations.
Dogs from France showcase the excellence of French cynological heritage!
By exploring these 21 breeds of French origin dogs, we have discovered a rich and fascinating canine heritage. From the loyalty of the barbet to the intelligence of the poodle, and from the robustness of the berger picard to the grace of the petit chien lion, each breed proudly embodies the French legacy. These four-legged companions combine unique physical characteristics with varied temperaments, thus offering a captivating diversity to animal lovers. Whatever breed catches your attention, these French dogs testify to the excellence of breeding and centuries-old tradition. Adopting one of these dogs not only means welcoming a loyal and affectionate companion but also celebrating the deep bond that unites us with our heritage. Let yourself be seduced by the beauty, intelligence, and charm of French dogs, and dive into an adventure full of love and companionship!
