Dog Breeds - Braque Du Bourbonnais

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of warmth exhibited by a certain breed towards family members and familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may appear distant from everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat their acquaintances as if they were their closest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a breed displays tolerance and patience with children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is always crucial to supervise dogs around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The disposition of a breed towards other dogs in terms of general friendliness may vary. While it is essential to supervise all dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to possess a natural inclination to get along well with other dogs both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that a breed is prone to shedding can vary significantly. Breeds with high shedding tendencies typically require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, such breeds may have a higher likelihood of triggering allergies in sensitive individuals and may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. When evaluating grooming requirements, it's important to consider the time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. While the specifics depend on the breed, all dogs require regular nail trimming to maintain their overall health and well-being.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool can vary considerably. For individuals who prioritize cleanliness, breeds that are inclined to leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice. It's important to consider your personal preferences and tolerance for drool when selecting a breed.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display reserve or caution around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more open and eager to meet new people whenever the opportunity arises. It's important to consider the breed's temperament and socialization tendencies when evaluating their behavior towards strangers.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds, even beyond the age of puppyhood. Some breeds will maintain a strong desire to play activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They may exhibit high energy levels and actively seek out playtime. Conversely, other breeds may be more inclined to relax on the couch and enjoy calm companionship instead of engaging in vigorous play. Understanding a breed's activity level and play preferences is important when considering their compatibility with your own lifestyle and preferences.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Some breeds are more prone to alerting their owners when strangers are around. These breeds tend to have a heightened sense of alertness and may react to potential threats, such as the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that such breeds can still warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family, as they primarily display a protective instinct rather than aggression.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to change can vary. Some breeds are known to handle changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules, and other variations in day-to-day life relatively easily. They tend to adjust well to new environments and routines. However, other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require more time and support to acclimate. When considering a breed, it is important to assess their adaptability and determine whether it aligns with your lifestyle and the potential changes you may encounter.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are generally known for their ease of training and eagerness to please their owners. They may quickly grasp new commands and exhibit a strong desire to learn. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more independent-minded and may require additional patience and consistency during training. These breeds may have a tendency to prioritize their own desires over following commands. When considering a breed, it's important to evaluate their trainability and match it with your own training preferences and expectations.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary significantly. High-energy breeds typically have a strong need for physical activity and mental stimulation. They thrive when given ample opportunities to run, play and engage in various activities throughout the day. These breeds often require regular exercise to release their energy and prevent behavioral issues related to boredom or pent-up energy. On the other hand, low-energy breeds have lower exercise needs and are generally content with a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to be more inclined to lounge around and enjoy calm activities, such as leisurely walks or short play sessions. When selecting a breed, it is crucial to consider your own activity level, lifestyle, and commitment to providing the necessary exercise and mental stimulation for your dog's well-being and overall happiness.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency, at which this particular breed vocalizes, regardless of whether it is through barks or howls, varies greatly. While certain breeds tend to bark incessantly at any passer-by or a bird by the window, others limit their barking to specific situations. Even barkless breeds can exhibit vocal behavior by expressing themselves through alternative sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
Understanding the optimal level of mental stimulation necessary for a particular breed to maintain a state of happiness and overall well-being is paramount. Dogs that are specifically bred for certain purposes may possess inherent traits that necessitate activities involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, or similar qualities. Failing to provide adequate mental exercise tailored to their needs may lead them to devise their own projects to occupy their minds, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of warmth exhibited by a certain breed towards family members and familiar individuals varies. Certain breeds may appear distant from everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat their acquaintances as if they were their closest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent to which a breed displays tolerance and patience with children's behavior, as well as its overall family-friendly nature, can vary. It is always crucial to supervise dogs around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The disposition of a breed towards other dogs in terms of general friendliness may vary. While it is essential to supervise all dog interactions and introductions, certain breeds tend to possess a natural inclination to get along well with other dogs both in domestic settings and in public environments.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that a breed is prone to shedding can vary significantly. Breeds with high shedding tendencies typically require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Additionally, such breeds may have a higher likelihood of triggering allergies in sensitive individuals and may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, or other coat maintenance tasks varies among different breeds. When evaluating grooming requirements, it's important to consider the time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. While the specifics depend on the breed, all dogs require regular nail trimming to maintain their overall health and well-being.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool can vary considerably. For individuals who prioritize cleanliness, breeds that are inclined to leave ropes of slobber on your arm or create big wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice. It's important to consider your personal preferences and tolerance for drool when selecting a breed.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed exhibits towards strangers can vary significantly. Certain breeds may display reserve or caution around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds are generally more open and eager to meet new people whenever the opportunity arises. It's important to consider the breed's temperament and socialization tendencies when evaluating their behavior towards strangers.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds, even beyond the age of puppyhood. Some breeds will maintain a strong desire to play activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They may exhibit high energy levels and actively seek out playtime. Conversely, other breeds may be more inclined to relax on the couch and enjoy calm companionship instead of engaging in vigorous play. Understanding a breed's activity level and play preferences is important when considering their compatibility with your own lifestyle and preferences.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Some breeds are more prone to alerting their owners when strangers are around. These breeds tend to have a heightened sense of alertness and may react to potential threats, such as the presence of the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, it's important to note that such breeds can still warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family, as they primarily display a protective instinct rather than aggression.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to change can vary. Some breeds are known to handle changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather, daily schedules, and other variations in day-to-day life relatively easily. They tend to adjust well to new environments and routines. However, other breeds may be more sensitive to changes and may require more time and support to acclimate. When considering a breed, it is important to assess their adaptability and determine whether it aligns with your lifestyle and the potential changes you may encounter.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are generally known for their ease of training and eagerness to please their owners. They may quickly grasp new commands and exhibit a strong desire to learn. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more independent-minded and may require additional patience and consistency during training. These breeds may have a tendency to prioritize their own desires over following commands. When considering a breed, it's important to evaluate their trainability and match it with your own training preferences and expectations.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires can vary significantly. High-energy breeds typically have a strong need for physical activity and mental stimulation. They thrive when given ample opportunities to run, play and engage in various activities throughout the day. These breeds often require regular exercise to release their energy and prevent behavioral issues related to boredom or pent-up energy. On the other hand, low-energy breeds have lower exercise needs and are generally content with a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to be more inclined to lounge around and enjoy calm activities, such as leisurely walks or short play sessions. When selecting a breed, it is crucial to consider your own activity level, lifestyle, and commitment to providing the necessary exercise and mental stimulation for your dog's well-being and overall happiness.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

When Necessary

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

Understanding the optimal level of mental stimulation necessary for a particular breed to maintain a state of happiness and overall well-being is paramount. Dogs that are specifically bred for certain purposes may possess inherent traits that necessitate activities involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, or similar qualities. Failing to provide adequate mental exercise tailored to their needs may lead them to devise their own projects to occupy their minds, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Chestnut	070
Fawn	082

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Ticked	013

About The Breed

The Braque du Bourbonnais, pronounced brock-do-bor-bon-NAY is a pointer breed that possesses a gentle and calm temperament, making it an excellent choice for foot hunters. With its relatively compact size and short coat, it is well-suited to be a hunting companion as well as a beloved household pet.

Originating in France during the 15th century within the historic region of Bourbonnais, this breed has a rich history. In the 1800s, French hunters recognized the Braque du Bourbonnais as a tailless pointer distinguished by its unique fawn and liver ticking coat. Over time, this breed has gained popularity in North America with some years seeing more registrations in the United States than in its country of origin, France. In English, it is referred to as the Bourbonnais Pointing Dog.

Not only known for its affectionate and kind nature at home, the Braque du Bourbonnais also possesses intelligence, adaptability, and a strong hunting instinct in the field. This well-rounded combination of traits makes it a trusted and reliable companion for avid hunters.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A BRAQUE DU BOURBONNAIS

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Braque Du Bourbonnais: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Majority of Bourbonnais Pointing Dogs boast robust health. Individuals seeking ownership of a Braque du Bourbonnais can acquire valuable knowledge about particular health issues within the breed by collaborating with responsible breeders. Esteemed breeders employ health screening and genetic testing on their breeding stock to minimize the risk of diseases in their adorable puppies. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association:

Grooming

	The Braque du Bourbonnais boasts a splendid coat that is both thick and short. However, it tends to be slightly rougher and occasionally longer along the back. Conversely, the hair on the head and ears is more delicate and shorter. Apart from the importance of periodic brushing, giving your Braque du Bourbonnais an occasional bath will help keep them clean and looking their absolute best. Engaging in grooming sessions can also serve as a delightful bonding experience for both you and your furry friend. To prevent complications such as overgrowth, splitting, and cracking, it is recommended to regularly trim the breed's sturdy and fast-growing nails using a nail clipper or grinder. It is also crucial to check the ears on a regular basis to prevent an accumulation of wax and debris which may lead to infections. Lastly, remember to maintain the oral hygiene of your Braque du Bourbonnais by regularly brushing their teeth.

Exercise

	There are various options to provide your dog with exercise. One possibility is to engage in play sessions in a securely fenced backyard. This allows your dog to run and play freely while ensuring their safety. Another option is to take your dog for multiple walks throughout the day, which provides both exercise and mental stimulation. Indoor activities can also be incorporated, such as playing hide-and-seek, encouraging your dog to chase a ball rolled on the floor, or teaching them new tricks. Outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and playing fetch with balls or flying discs can help your dog burn off energy. Additionally, participating in dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally can provide a structured and enjoyable way to exercise your dog.

Training

	The Braque du Bourbonnais is a breed that responds well to gentle handling. They have a natural ability to pick up on their handler's mood and seek eye contact as a way to establish a connection. It is important to approach them with kindness and patience as harsh or forceful methods can negatively affect their trust and cooperation. By maintaining a calm and positive demeanor, the Braque du Bourbonnais can thrive in their training and develop a strong bond with their handler.

Nutrition

	Feeding a Braque du Bourbonnais a high-quality dog food is essential for their overall health. Whether you choose commercially manufactured food or opt for a home-prepared diet, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian for their guidance and approval. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific age group, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. It's important to monitor your dog's calorie intake and weight to prevent them from becoming overweight, as some Braque du Bourbonnais dogs are prone to weight gain. Treats can be used for training purposes, but it's important to be mindful of the quantity given to prevent obesity. Educate yourself on which human foods are safe for dogs and which ones should be avoided to ensure your dog's diet is free from potential harmful substances. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, it's always recommended to consult with your veterinarian for their professional advice. Lastly, make sure your Braque du Bourbonnais has access to clean and fresh water at all times to stay properly hydrated.

Historiography

The Braque du Bourbonnais is an ancient breed and is considered one of the oldest pointing breeds originating in France. The word "Braque" derives from a French verb meaning "to aim or point," indicating the breed's skill in pointing game during hunting. This breed has been mentioned in French literature since the late 1500s with a reputation for its exceptional hunting instincts.

Experts agree that multiple French pointing breeds share a common ancestry known as the French Pointer or Braque Francais. Each regional breed of pointer in France is named after the area where it was developed. For instance, the Braque Saint Germain represents the pointer from Saint Germain, the Braque d'Auvergne from the Auvergne region and the Braque du Bourbonnais from the province of Bourbon in central France.

Presently, French breeders of the Braque du Bourbonnais aim to produce dogs that adhere to the breed standard while demonstrating excellent field performance as pointers, retrievers, and trackers. Since the 1970s, breeders have made significant advancements in improving the breed's conformation and field abilities.

After World War I, a group of dedicated breeders formed the first Club du Braque du Bourbonnais in 1925 to revive the breed. Their efforts, documented in the club's first bulletin from 1930 made substantial progress but were again disrupted by the devastation of World War II. Strict adherence to appearance-based traits, such as being naturally tailless and limited color requirements, led to a decline in breeder interest. From 1963 to 1973, no Braque du Bourbonnais puppies were registered

In 1982, Michel Comte established a second Club du Braque du Bourbonnais, which gained official recognition by the Society Centrale Canine (SCC), the French affiliate of the FCI, in 1985. The breed's revival was successfully achieved by relaxing certain breed standards, accepting spotted coats and docked tails and reinstating the breed's notable hunting instincts. The revised breed standard was fully recognized by the SCC and FCI in 1991 with the FCI publishing the translated version on its website in 1998.