Epagnol black. Reliable hunter and devoted friend: Breton Epagnole dog breed

A very popular pointing dog in France, Breton Spaniel the smallest and perhaps the most adventurous of the continental gundog breeds; he knows how to look for game, point to it and bring it to the hunter. He is energetic, tireless, with a sharp mind - a real working dog who needs a lot of exercise for his body and brain. He is also good-natured and affectionate, a wonderful companion, perfect for family life - provided that he has good opportunity spend yoursirrepressible energy when hunting, in obedience or agility competitions.

It turned out thanks to a successful combination of French and English breeds. Workers Breton spaniels, known back in 1700 and nicknamed “Fougeres”, in the 19th century. were crossed with setters and pointers brought by British hunters. The result was an excellent gun dog, which received wide recognition by the beginning of the 20th century. It came to the USA in the 1920s, and to Britain only in the 1970s. - now enjoys well-deserved popularity all over the world.

• Original purpose: Cop hunting dog;
• Height at withers (males): 48-51 cm (19-20 inches);
• Height at withers (females): 46-48 cm (18-19 inches);
• Weight: 13.5-18 kg (30-40 lbs);
• Life expectancy: 13-15 years.

WHAT TYPE OF HOME?

More suitable for country life, he needs fields where he can run freely and take long walks with his owner. He is very active in the house and needs a fairly large, securely fenced garden where he can burn off at least some of his energy.

WHAT COLOR?

Color Breton spaniels Very wide range: orange and white, liver and white, black and white, piebald or tri-color (liver, white and orange or black, white and orange), speckled or spotted, no two dogs are identical in color.

WHAT kind of coat care?

The straight, medium-length coat is relatively easy to care for; you just need to comb it twice a week with a brush and comb. Some dogs have long fringes on their floppy ears and legs that require special attention. After walking in the forest, check for burrs and litter.

HOW are they suitable for the role of a pet?

If Breton Spaniel gets lots of stimulating exercise and becomes an excellent pet. He plays well with children - owners often say that he gets along with them faster than their parents. However, if the spaniel has nothing to do, his hyperactivity will irritate those around him, and in the early years he will be too boisterous to be kept around small children.

WHAT type of owner?

This dog is not suitable for people who like to lie on the couch. Only active people, lovers of country walks in any weather who have time for training and other activities with the dog can cope with this very energetic breed. And a spaniel can be spoiled by insensitive treatment; he needs an affectionate owner who knows how to be firm and consistent without cruelty.

HOW do they get along with other pets?

With skillful early socialization, the spaniel is friendly with dogs and treats domestic cats well - although other people's cats may suffer from it.

HOW easy will they be trained?

Learns and always pleases the owner, it is very easy to train, although some dogs are stubborn and need to be gently but firmly directed. Better to stay calm sequential method reward-based training: This very impressionable dog does not respond well to rough handling but does well to rewards.

WHAT are good qualities?

Affectionate, impressionable, obedient, intelligent, energetic in hunting and competition, sociable.

WHAT type of owner?

This dog is not suitable for people who like to lie on the couch. Only active people who love long walks in any weather, who have time for training and other activities with the dog, can cope with this very energetic breed. And a spaniel can be spoiled by bad treatment; he needs an affectionate owner who knows how to be firm.

WHAT physical activity is needed?

This very active dog needs long, interesting walks every day, plus the opportunity to run around freely for an hour or two. Mental exercises are also no less important than physical ones, and if the dog does not go hunting, the owner needs to enter it into competitions in obedience, agility or artificial tracking so that it is happy. She is not fit for idleness!

WHAT should we be afraid of?

Great desire for work and energy: with dissatisfaction comes disappointment. In addition, the dog requires a lot of attention and suffers from separation anxiety.

WHAT medical problems?

Known cases hip dysplasia; Progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, hemophilia and some skin diseases are sometimes encountered.

The Breton Epagnole is a wonderful hunting pointing dog, which is also an excellent companion that can bring a lot of joy to its owner. Distinctive features the breed has a developed hunting instinct and passion, high level intelligence and many other characteristics that give Breton special popularity. Let's learn more about the origin and history of the breed, its standards, the character and health of the pets, the necessary care and other features of keeping these versatile hunters.

Description and photo of the breed

Let us dwell on a detailed description of the Breton Epagnole breed, which is considered the smallest among the French longhaired pointers.

What does a dog look like?

Breed standard:

• Country of origin of the breed: France.
• Height: within 48-50 cm.
• Weight: 13-17 kg.
• Average life expectancy: 12-14 years old.
• Litter: on average 6 puppies.
• Wool: thin, slightly wavy.
• Coat color: white colors with spots of red, chestnut or black, as well as savage and tri-color black colors are allowed. Speckles on the face and limbs are allowed.
• Head: regular shape with a slightly rounded skull at the sides. The muzzle is straight. The color of the nose often matches the color of the animal. The eyes are expressive, round, slightly elongated. Eye color is preferably dark. The ears are set high, mobile, and have a triangular shape.
• Torso: strong, stocky and moderately graceful.
• Paws: strong, with flexible joints.
• Tail: the ideal length is 3-7 cm, but not more than 10 cm.
• Breed recognized: FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR, CKC.

Did you know? A Breton's sense of smell is 25 times stronger thanm in humans.

Pet character

Breton Spaniel ― one of the best companions for lovers active rest. At home, this intelligent pet shows incredible friendliness, affectionate character and devotion to people.

But as soon as this energetic and active dog finds itself outside the city, in the field, all its hunting talents are revealed. She becomes a versatile waterfowl hunter.

Restless, agile and tireless epañol is always ready to travel, even over long distances. Thanks to its stable nervous organization, the dog is always obedient, easily remembers commands and carries them out just as clearly.
By nature, the Breton Spaniel is very flexible and is accustomed to obeying a gentle but firm hand.

An affectionate and cheerful dog is different good disposition and a tendency to become attached to all family members.

In particular, a kind pet strives to take care of children. In general, cordiality and kindness distinguishes the Breton dog from other pointers.

While his brothers are more independent, the French Spaniard is ready to accept affection even from a stranger.

Thanks to these qualities, he is a wonderful indoor pet that gets along well in houses and apartments.

Important! Brave and daring Bretons, after hunting, become affectionate pets who cordially welcome every stranger into the house. Therefore, there is no need to demand from a hunting pointing dog guard skills that are not inherent to it by nature.

History of the breed

It is impossible to determine for certain the country of origin of the Breton dog, but it is the French who consider the breed to be their national treasure. According to some versions, the species is similar to Spanish hunting dogs and originates from Spain, but according to the main versions, it appeared in remote, agricultural regions of France.

First mentions the French pointing dog was recorded in the middle of the 19th century. In 1896, the species was recognized as a separate breed, and a few years later the first community of Breton lovers appeared.

At first, hunters on the island of Breton used the dog to catch burrowing game, and not as a pointer. But over time, noting its agile stance, good sense of smell and hunting passion, they began to improve the breed.

The unique species, which originated from the medieval spaniel, was slightly modified by crossing it with the English setter and pointer.
To this day, the Breton epañol is highly valued not only among hunters, but also among many city residents, and has also retained the unspoken title of the pearl of French cynology for many years.

Did you know? The breed's name "Epanol" comes from an Old French word meaning "to lie down."

Choosing a Breton Spaniel

Often, specialists in breeding Breton Spaniels are convinced fans of this breed.

They take a responsible approach to the selection of individuals for breeding in order to obtain puppies that have the maximum balance between breed typicality and natural qualities.

Future owners only need to pay attention to the gender and length of the pet's tail. Thus, the ideal length for a ponytail is 3-6 cm. The maximum permissible length is 10 cm, but no more.
Nice puppy Epagnole Breton breeds will cost from $200 to $1000. Puppies that deviate from the breed standard will cost less.

Another question that worries many is how to choose the gender of a dog. If we talk about females, they mature earlier than males, and are more affectionate and affectionate in nature.

But it should be remembered that during estrus, which occurs twice a year and lasts about two weeks, bitches become completely unsuitable for hunting.

In this matter, males have an advantage because they remain productive all year round. In addition, they are more hardy, but less patient and obedient than females.

Did you know? Bretons are considered real hunting "machines". So, in open areas they sense a flock of birds at a distance of 60-70 meters.

Features of care

To enjoy the beauty and enthusiasm of your pet every day, you must follow the rules of care.

So, Breton needs:

1. Mandatory coat care, which includes weekly bathing using special shampoos and conditioners, as well as a daily brushing ritual.
2. Daily eye examination and wiping the orbital area with a clean, damp disc (if dirt gets into the eye, wipe with a soothing liquid).
3. Oral care and regular teeth brushing with a special toothpaste and brush. To prevent tartar, Bretons buy toys made from special materials or edible bones for cleaning their teeth.
4. Careful ear care and checking the condition of the ears, as they are susceptible to diseases.
5. Nail trimming as needed. Often, due to an active lifestyle, a dog’s claws grind down on their own, but they still need to be inspected and, if necessary, cut off or filed with a file. You should also not forget about removing the claws on the dewclaws.

The rules of care also include taking care of the dog’s nutrition. Thus, experts recommend choosing a high-quality, balanced food, since home-cooked food leads to an imbalance of nutrients.

Important!Many dog ​​breeders believe that a hunting dog's diet should contain bones. This opinion is erroneous, since bones injure and clog the intestines and also contribute to the rapid grinding of teeth.

Physical activity and walking

Walks and exercise are an integral part of the Breton Spaniel's life. Increasingly, this pet is becoming a good friend and companion for people with an active lifestyle who go jogging in parks and try to engage in physical activity in the fresh air.

Espanol - so much clever dog that is capable of adapting to life in the city, if only her owner pays due attention to her needs. Your pet needs at least two half-hour walks every day with regular physical activity.
On weekends, the dog should be taken for long walks in the forest, field or open countryside. While walking, you must remember to alternate between running and physical activity.

About training

Breton loves to please his master so much that he is ready to carry out any commands. The training stage in the life of this dog begins at the age of 7-8 months. At the same time, at the age of two months, puppies are separated from their mother in order to teach the rules of behavior in the house and basic commands.

From the age of eight months, the dog begins to be trained to work with game. So, for example, the dog should not move while standing over the bird and at the moment when the bird takes off.

At the next stage, the French pointer is trained to search for a trail in a cross way (covering a distance of 80 m to the right and then to the left at a fast pace). At the same time, the cop is taught how to react to a shot and what command to bring the prey.
Subsequently, training is organized on the water.

Important!The affectionate Espanol easily makes contact with people, so its training should be done in a gentle manner. Screaming and spanking are absolutely not the ways to achieve good results in learning.

Health and illness

The Breton Spaniel is a fairly healthy breed that is characterized by strength and endurance. To maintain the health and impeccable shape of your pet, you need to carefully monitor its diet.

It is a balanced diet that is responsible for the harmonious development of the body and resistance to diseases or infections.

The Breton Spaniel is predisposed to the following diseases:

• elbow and elbow dysplasia;
• ear infections;
• systemic lupus erythematosus.

If you are looking true friend and a companion with whom you can actively spend time, you can find him in the person of a devoted and affectionate Breton spaniel. This versatile hunter knows how to adapt to any living conditions, so it is increasingly becoming a pet of active city dwellers.

Above all, the Breton Epagnole appreciates the attention and love of the owner, so you will not find a more loyal and responsive pet.

The country of origin of the species cannot be determined for certain, but the French consider it their national breed. Breton dogs They are called epagnoles and spaniels. There is a version suggesting their relationship with Spanish bird dogs. The word "epagnole" comes from Old French and means - to lie down. Previously, birds were hunted not with weapons, but with nets. To ensure that only the prey fell into the trap, the dogs, upon discovering the game, stopped and then lay down. Many cynologists, based on the name “spaniel”, which means “Spanish” in French, claim that its homeland is Spain.

The first written mention of these dogs dates back to 1850. It was at this time, in London, that the book “Memoirs of Hunting in Britain” was published. It was written by a priest, Rev. Father Davis, who preached in these places and was a passionate lover of hunting. The canids he described were very reminiscent of modern epagnoles. Their special working qualities were also noted. Old-style British spaniels that came to England mixed there with local pointers, mainly pointers. According to dog handlers, this benefited them, having adopted from them an excellent sense of smell, stance and wide search. Later, they returned to France in approximately the same form as they are now. IN late XIX centuries were recognized as a separate breed.

"Bretons" were first demonstrated as separate species in 1896. A little later, in 1901, a society of lovers of these dogs was created. It was also involved in developing the criteria for the standard. There was a lot of controversy about this. The first color standard meant “natural”, but nothing was explained in detail about it. The length of the tail also caused heated debate. Dogs were born with short tails and thought for a very long time whether to dock them or not. Subsequently, they decided not to interfere with the creation of nature, and over time, dogs with longer tails degenerated.

In 1930, animals were first brought to the United States, and a big “boom” immediately began. Demand went beyond all reasonable limits. IN post-war period, in Brittany the breed declined. Many individuals died as a result of disease, hunger, and fighting. After 1945, epagnoles brought from America revived the breed again. It has five varieties. Three of which differ from each other only in coat color, and the remaining two, in size and a number of other characteristics.

Hunters of the Brittany Peninsula, with its famous Picasso Pass, at one time used this breed to catch burrowing game, and not as a pointing dog. At the beginning of the 20th century, experts noticed the great usefulness and mobility of the rack, which distinguished english dogs, brought to France. From that moment on, work began to improve the working qualities of the spaniel by crossing it with the setter and pointer.

Thanks to selective selection, the once ordinary spaniel has been transformed over several decades into what is today considered the pearl of French cynology. For a long time now, the “Breton” has been imported into almost all countries of the world and has been able to earn the trust of hunters who have adapted to other breeds. For him it turned out to be not so difficult. People were skeptical at first, but later came to the same conclusion that this dog is not afraid of thorny thickets, thick reeds and water. She is able to overcome any obstacle, and has the passion of a true trapper.

Umberto Maragnoni, one of the most famous breeders of this breed, said: “For me a big joy to see that today this dog has proven itself in the field of competitions.” In competitions, they achieved a place of honor among pointers, both in quality and in the number of victories, thereby becoming one of the breeds in greatest demand. The activities of the Cavalier Maragnoni left a big mark on the history of the breed, thanks to careful selection work over the course of fifty years. His kennel “Kopizara” produced many breed champions.

To this day, Breton epagnoles are very popular. In their homeland, according to an unofficial version, there are approximately one hundred thousand of them. Of this number, there are more than five thousand registered purebreds. They are bred not only as assistants at hunting events, but also as family companions. Despite the fact that there are not many of them in Russia, they have already won the hearts of many urban hunters.

External standard and description of the Breton Epagnole breed

Breton Epagnole has a strong constitution. The height at the withers is 45–47 cm for females and 46–51 cm for males.

1. Head rounded in shape with a protruding muzzle and lips. The breed's characteristic feature is a head shaped like a worn-out shoe.
2. Muzzle- expressive and funny, not too long. Shorter than the skull, in a ratio of 2:3. The nasal trunk is straight or slightly curved. The nose is open and slightly angular. Its color is darker than the dog's coat.
3. Eyes lively and expressive. Dark amber colors. In harmony with the color of the coat.
4. Ears located high, slightly rounded. Almost without fringe, although covered with wavy hair.
5. Neck the “Breton” has medium length, without a dewlap.
6. Frame- short, square format. Never has a concave shape. The chest is deep with wide, rounded ribs. The croup is slightly sloping.
7. Tail. They can be born without a tail, but those born with a longer tail have it docked. It can be maximum 10 cm in length.
8. Forelegs with dry muscles, powerful bones, but the hind legs have wide, muscular, very rich thighs, abundantly covered with fringe.
9. Paws. The toes are pressed tightly together and have almost no fur.
10. Coat on the body it is thin, but not too thin.
11. Color- white-orange, white-chestnut, white-black, tri-color black or savras.

The character of the Breton epagnol

A little treasure of the canine kind. These animals are literally programmed to obey you. They have a kind, affectionate disposition. Always ready to receive affection from their owner. Epagnoles are adored by all family members. Always strive to take care of children.

The animals are very welcoming, which distinguishes them from other pointing dogs, which behave more independently and are quite correct in relation to others. But anyone can pet the “Bretons.” They also live happily in an apartment, which means they are wonderful indoor pets.

Breton Spaniards are expansive and love to play with children. They are smart, always active and tireless. They can be transported anywhere without any special means. Always obedient. With a very stable nervous organization. They never bite. Excellent dogs that deserve an owner who can appreciate their wonderful qualities.

Health of the Breton Epagnole

Breton Spaniards are a fairly healthy breed. On average they live up to 12 years. To keep your dog in impeccable shape, you need to feed it well. Therefore, first of all, carefully consider your diet. It is through food that the animal receives the substances its body needs. To achieve optimal results, your pet must receive the required amount of protein, fat, carbohydrates and mineral salts. Balanced diet is a necessary prerequisite for the harmonious development of the body, preparing the dog for an active, adult life, increasing resistance to infections and diseases.

But no one can completely replace veterinarian, so you should take your pet for checkups regularly.

1. Wool. Does not require much effort at home. You need to bathe them once a week, using special shampoos and rinses.
2. Ears. They need to be given Special attention. Since they are long, this means they are prone to infections. Therefore, clean and check ears needed regularly. This is not difficult to do: the ear is filled with the product, it is done small massage, and excess dirt is wiped off.
3. Eyes. If the eyes of the epañol are dirty, they need to be wiped towards the inner corner. This can be done with a cotton pad and a soothing liquid.
4. Teeth. To avoid dental problems, brush your teeth regularly. All necessary pastes and brushes can be purchased at pet stores. Provide your favorite Breton with edible bones for brushing their teeth. You can buy him preventative toys made from special materials.
5. Claws. Hunting dogs are active, they run a lot, and their nails wear down. Otherwise, they need to be cut or filed with a file. The claws on the animal's dewclaws must be removed systematically.
6. Feeding. Home-cooked food often leads to imbalance and takes a lot of time to prepare. IN Lately, there is widespread ready-made feed suitable for immediate use. The most serious companies, after long and scrupulous research, have learned to produce food designed for specific physiological conditions animal. For example: height or physical activity. When choosing concentrates, you should be extremely careful, preferring products from companies that conduct special research on the selection of their composition. There is a misconception that it is simply vital for a hunting dog to chew bones. In fact, it is very dangerous! The animal's intestines become clogged, and the bird's bones have sharp edges at the break and can damage it. And the teeth of your Breton epagnol will wear down faster. You can only give your pet cartilage, but never bones!
7. Walks. Every day, the Bretons need at least an hour of training. They will be grateful to you if you provide them with the opportunity to run around in an open space.

Training of the Breton Spaniel

Breton Spaniards love to please their owners, so they are easy to train. Puppies are weaned from the bitch at the age of two months and their training begins. At this stage there is no talk about training, since it begins at 7-8 months. Until this age, puppies remember best. They are taught everything related to behavior in the house: cleanliness, initial commands (“sit”, “lie down”, “toe”, etc.).

At 8 months they begin training. The dog is trained to game, that is, it cannot be touched when it takes off. While standing over the game, the dog should not move. Then they teach how to search for a trail in a cross way - 80 meters left and right at a fast pace. At the same stage of training, the dog is taught to shoot. She must wait for the owner's command to bring the wounded animal. They also organize training on the water - they “lead” the dogs to ducks. The pet is taught that he must give up the duck, the owner moves away, and only after that he can shake himself off.

Pointing dogs search for game in the forest, swamp, and field. In open areas, the dog's search can cover up to 150 meters in each direction - "shuttle". The animal moves at a full gallop. In bushes, forests and thickets, it is necessary to reduce it. There, the direction of the air jets is changeable and the dog works in “figure eights” with circular walks.

When the epañol finds game, it takes a “stand” and does not move until the owner approaches it. Then it slowly moves towards the game, which is called “pulling”. Next, the dog makes a sharp jerk - “eyeliner”. The bird takes off and the hunter shoots. At the moment of the shot the animal must lie down.

They have won more dual meets than all other breeds. That is, they can be used not only in natural conditions, but they also perform in the ring.

Despite the fact that they can work at a great distance from the hunter, they never let him out of their field of vision. This makes training dogs very easy. They carry out any order. A person only needs to point in the direction, and the dog will tirelessly “iron” the field in search of prey. Neither prickly grass nor other smells are able to distract him from his favorite activity. To say that the sense of smell of these dogs is wonderful is to say nothing. In France they say about a person with excellent intuition that he has a nose like an epagnole.

They can, as hunters say, “pick up the scent” from a great distance. In open areas, they can smell a flock of birds at a distance of almost 70 meters. They have a very sensitive nose, which turns them into real hunting machines. It's big, wide and open. Allows you to breathe deeply and smell more. Bretons have a sense of smell 25 times stronger than that of humans.

Nuances when buying a Breton puppy

A Breton breeder must be a convinced fan of the breed. Carry out a careful selection of producers, often importing them from their countries of origin, in order to constantly renew the blood. Personally test them in working exams and in show rings. He must study with great attention the character, type, advantages and disadvantages of the applicants.

A lot of patience is required from the dog owner. Individuals for mating are selected in such a way that the puppies produced from them are distinguished by the maximum balance between natural qualities, typicality of the breed and harmony of forms. This work makes it possible to combine in offspring best qualities their parents and ancestors.

Improving the breed requires large expenses, which are unlikely to pay off due to the small number of puppies obtained. Therefore, amateur breeding can be called the pinnacle of dog breeding nobility. Dog breeding is an art, not a craft. Therefore, if you decide to get this particular breed, you better turn to professional breeders.

Very often, when choosing a puppy, the question arises: “Which gender should I prefer?” As for bitches, they are more affectionate, affectionate and mature earlier. However, during estrus, which happens twice a year and lasts twenty days, they are unsuitable for hunting. The male dog has greater endurance and can work all year round, but he is more irritable and less obedient.

If you are not a hunter and want to have this dog as a pet, then it needs to be provided with active physical activity. When you can't create the necessary conditions To fully maintain a “Breton,” then get a dog that is more suitable for you.

The breed is quite popular, but still the best breeding individuals are located abroad. In average pricing policy a Breton Epognole puppy will cost from $100 to $1000. Puppies with some deviations from external criteria will be cheaper.

More details about Breton epagnol You will learn from this video:

Learn about the Breton Spaniel's character and personality. Study his habits, traits, characteristics and how he generally behaves. Find out what kind of care he needs and how easy it is to train him.

Personality of the Breton Spaniel

The Breton Spaniel is an award-winning, well-known hunting dog and has recently become popular as a pet, due to their happy, friendly, affectionate nature, intelligence and versatility. They enjoy being in the company of people and also love attention. They will want to spend a lot of time with you.

They don't like to be left alone for for a long time. They like to be loved, but they also like to work. They need challenges and crave mental stimulation. Boredom, loneliness or pent-up energy will lead them to destructive behavior. Therefore, they also need a lot of exercise. They love to run and should do so daily.

A busy representative of this breed - happy dog. They are friendly with children and most interact well with other dogs (some are aggressive towards other dogs and cats). Personalities within this breed range from highly sensitive to reserved, and from obedient to stubborn. But they are generally gentle, active, attentive and playful dogs that make wonderful companions in homes with active lifestyles.

Breton Spaniel training

Breton Spaniels are very intelligent and easy to train. They learn new commands very quickly.

Breton Spaniel hair loss

The Breton Spaniel loses a fair amount of hair. You will find its fur on your sofa, carpet, clothes and everything else in your home.

Caring for the Breton Spaniel

Caring for the Breton Spaniel's short coat requires occasional brushing. But because he sheds, you may want to brush him once or twice a week to remove loose hair (What you brush doesn't fall out in your house!).

The group of hunting dog breeds is quite extensive. Many of its representatives are well known to Russian animal lovers. Epagnole Breton is still not widespread in our country. This dog is famous for its excellent hunting qualities, high intelligence, sociability and obedience.

These are universal pointing gun dogs that can adapt as much as possible not only to the owner, but also to various living conditions. Dog experts believe that the name of the breed comes from the word espagnol. At the same time, there is a version that Breton epaignoles were named after the style of their work s "espaignir (stretch out, lie down).

History of the breed

Animals very similar in appearance to modern epanols appeared in the 15th century in France. Since the 17th century, images of such dogs began to often appear on tapestries and paintings by famous masters, for example, on the canvases of the Dutchman Jan Steen.

Until 1850, these dogs were not called Epagnole Breton. Reverend Father Davis, describing hunting with dogs that looked like pointers, noted that they had longer hair and a short tail. These dogs did an excellent stance, quickly brought prey and were surprisingly obedient.

For the first time, Breton epagnole was officially presented at an exhibition in 1896. The first representative of the breed to appear before the general public was a wonderful dog named Pincon Royal. Its owner was the Viscount of Brittany de Comboug. The breed club began its work in 1907 in Brittany. In September of the same year, the first breed standard was presented. Today these are the most popular hunting dogs (photos of them are published in cynological publications) in the USA and Europe.

Breed characteristics

These cute animals are the smallest among the French Longhaired Pointers. The Epagnole Breton is described as a stocky, strong and at the same time very graceful dog. Height at the withers is from 50 cm (males) to 49 cm (females). Weight, respectively, 14-18 kg.

Head

The dog's head has correct form, the front and sides of the skull are slightly rounded. The transition from forehead to muzzle is quite smooth. The muzzle is straight. The nose is harmonious in color with the color of the animal, wide. The eyes are large, round and slightly elongated, very expressive. The color is usually consistent with the coat, but dark is preferred, although other colors are not considered a fault. Ears triangular shape, mobile, located high, of medium length. They are partially covered with soft wavy hair.

Torso

The neck is muscular and of medium length. The withers are not prominent and mobile. Wide rib cage descends to the top of the elbow. The stomach is tucked. The tail is set high. Epagnole Bretons are born without a tail or with a very short tail. The standard prescribes its length to be no more than 10 cm; 3-6 cm is considered ideal.

Limbs

The hind and forelimbs are vertical, with strong and flexible joints. The thighs are muscular and wide. The lower leg is noticeably longer than the thigh.

Coat

Bretons have a slightly wavy, fine coat. The color allowed is white with spots of chestnut, black or red. Sometimes there are specks on the lips, limbs, and muzzle. Almost all colors have a light narrow stripe on the head.

Vices

All deviations from the given requirements are shortcomings (defects). Their severity is assessed in proportion to the severity of the deviations, as well as their impact on the welfare and health of the animal. The following are considered disqualifying defects:

• character defect (the dog is aggressive towards other animals and humans, biting);
• cowardice;
• dimensions different from the standard limits;
• converging lines of the muzzle and skull;
• excessive variegation;
• white spots on the ears or around the eyes. light, multi-colored eyes;
• strabismus;
• ectropy and entropy;
• undershot or undershot;
• depigmentation on the eyelids or nose.

Health

The Breton Epagnole is prone to the following diseases:

1. (CHD) - hip dysplasia;
2. elbow dysplasia;
3. lupus erythematosus (chronic);
4. epilepsy;
5. ear infections.

Character

The Breton Epagnole is a balanced, intelligent and very kind dog. She loves to please her owner. Her character is reflected in her intelligent and friendly gaze. Hunting dogs, photos of which can be seen in magazines for animal lovers, are generally very smart, but Bretons, according to their owners, just don’t know how to talk.

This insightful dog always very skillfully uses the slightest weaknesses of the owner, surprising him with his resourcefulness. Epagnol does not show aggression towards strangers. He is friendly and enjoys playing with children, especially if the dog has grown up with them since childhood.

Abundance of energy, passion for hunting, availability vitality and sociability - this is Breton epaignol. These are very sociable creatures that can make friends with both dogs and cats. This dog can become not only an excellent hunter's assistant, but also a sensitive companion and pet. The dog has absolutely no dog smell. Even after returning from the swamps (having cleaned the fur on his own), he can spend the night with you in a tent, and you will not feel any smell.

Probably, someone will consider the portrait of the Breton epañol described by us too idyllic. But it should be borne in mind that this dog is endowed with a rather strong character; at some point the dog may become stubborn.

Upbringing

Breton epagnole puppies from the very early age must understand who is the leader for him, whose word is law. The child must know what can be done and what cannot be done under any circumstances. will require patience and perseverance from the owner. Without offending the animal, without being rude, but firmly and decisively, all attempts at disobedience that may appear in adolescence should be suppressed.

Today, about twenty dogs of this breed are officially registered in Russia. All adults work great, the owners are delighted with their four-legged helpers.

Usage

As we have already said, the Breton Epagnole is an attentive and intelligent dog. She has an excellent sense of smell and is excellent at fetching game (including from cold water), makes a long stance. The way it works in the field is reminiscent of a setter (at dusk, not knowing that it is an epañole, you will probably say that it is a setter, but without a tail).

However, there are also differences: epañol actively manifests itself in any area. Breton is an excellent climber, so mountainous areas this dog is irreplaceable. When the hunt takes place in tall grass, then in the process of searching, the epanol resembles a tireless hare - as it runs, it constantly jumps up, and therefore the hunter never loses sight of it.

The dog also does not get lost in dense undergrowth. A bell is hung around her neck. As soon as it calms down, the dog is in a standing position. From 4-5 months, puppies show a passion for hunting and demonstrate excellent working qualities. Dogs are highly trainable. The animal needs a lot of physical activity to always be in shape, so it is advisable to use it as a hunting dog. Today it is the most popular hunting dog in the world.

The Breton needs to be bathed and brushed regularly. If the dog is used as a hunting dog, it is necessary to expel worms twice as often as companion dogs (every six weeks).