Braque Français
An old French pointing breed found in Gascogne and Pyrenean sizes. Gentle, calm and eager to please, making a sociable family gundog that still needs plenty of work.
Braque Français scorecard
Overview
The Braque Français (“French Pointer”) is one of France's oldest pointing breeds and exists in two distinct types: the larger Braque Français type Gascogne and the smaller, more common Braque Français type Pyrénées. Across both types the breed ranges widely in size, roughly 47–69 cm and 17–32 kg, and wears a short coat of chestnut-brown and white, often ticked or roan.
Bred as an all-round gundog to point and retrieve, the Braque Français is prized for a calm, gentle and eager-to-please nature that makes it a sociable family dog as well as a capable worker. It is, however, a genuine sporting breed with real exercise needs and a strong nose, so it belongs in an active home rather than a quiet one.
Good to know — a Braque Français needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
Pointing dogs of the Braque Français type are among the ancestral European pointers, with roots traced in France over several centuries; the breed is often cited as one of the older Continental pointing breeds. Over time regional variation produced the two recognised sizes, with the Pyrenean type developing as a lighter, faster dog and the Gascony type remaining larger and heavier.
Both types are recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale within the pointing-dog group (FCI Group 7). The breed is uncommon in the United Kingdom and is not separately listed by The Kennel Club, so UK enthusiasts typically engage with European breeders and working-gundog networks.
Temperament & family fit
The Braque Français is renowned for a sweet, gentle temperament. It is typically calm, affectionate and biddable, forming close bonds with its family and generally proving good with children and tolerant of other dogs when properly socialised.
Despite its placid home manner, this is a working pointer with a powerful hunting instinct and a sensitive disposition. It does best with kind, consistent handling and steady company; it can become unhappy or develop unwanted behaviours if under-exercised, under-stimulated or frequently left alone.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
Few pointing breeds are as easy to train. The Braque Français is intelligent, willing and quick to learn with reward-based methods, and it responds especially well to gundog-style training that gives its instincts a productive outlet. Early recall and steadiness work are essential because the breed's strong nose can override an unreliable recall.
Sensitivity means harsh corrections are counterproductive; patient, positive handling produces a far more confident and reliable dog. Owners who lack the time for training should reconsider, as an intelligent gundog left to its own devices will find its own, often inconvenient, occupations.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Braque Français typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The short, dense coat is very easy to maintain, requiring only a weekly brush to control loose hair, with extra grooming during moults. Routine ear checks are important in this drop-eared breed, alongside regular nail trimming and basic dental care. Overall grooming demands are minimal, which is part of the breed's appeal for owners who want a low-fuss but active dog.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Braque Français
Provide a complete, balanced diet suited to an active medium-to-large gundog, split into two meals a day and matched to the individual dog's size, age and workload. Working dogs may need more during the season, while companions can be prone to weight gain, so feed to body condition. Avoid strenuous activity close to mealtimes given the deep-chested build, and keep fresh water available, especially after long days in the field.
A large breed
An adult Braque Français typically weighs 17–32 kg, so a healthy Braque Français eats a fair amount compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A large breed is usually done growing at 15–18 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 12–14 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
A high-energy dog eats like one
Braque Françaiss sit at the top end for energy, and a dog working through an hour and a half of real exercise a day burns through the feeding guide faster than a dog on a short stroll. Feed to the dog's condition, not to the middle of the range on the bag.
Joint support is worth looking for
Their size and frame put more load through the joints than a smaller dog carries, so a food with joint support on the label is worth reading for — and keeping them lean does more for their joints than any supplement.
Weight matters more than usual here
A long back or a heavy frame makes every extra kilo count twice. Weigh portions rather than eyeballing a scoop, and reduce the food rather than the walks if the waist starts to disappear.
How much should a Braque Français weigh?
Adult 17–32 kgfully grown at 15–18 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 1.9–3.7 kg | 11% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 3.2–5.9 kg | 19% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 6.3–11.9 kg | 37% |
| 12 months | Adolescent | 12.6–23.8 kg | 74% |
| 15–18 months | Fully grown | 17–32 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a large breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Braque Français
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Braque Français's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Field & Trial Skinner S Field Trial Light Senior
A lower-fat dry food for older, overweight or less active dogs, including working breeds
From£9.85
Autarky Complete Grain Free Adult Turkey
Grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, with turkey and a marine-algae joint care package
£12.79
Autarky Grain Free Tasty White Fish & Potato Complete
Grain-free dry dog food built around white fish meal rather than poultry
£12.99
Lily's Kitchen Lily S Kitchen Dog Lovely Lamb
Complete lamb-led dry dog food offered in two practical bag sizes
From£25.15
Burns Adult Large/Giant Breed Chicken and Brown Rice
Complete large-breed dry dog food with 23% chicken and brown rice
£59.99
Burgess Greyhound and Lurcher Chicken
Complete adult dry food formulated for the specific build of greyhounds and lurchers
£35.35
Naturo Senior Rice Poultry Variety 6pk
Six 400g trays across three recipes for senior dogs, with glucosamine and chondroitin
£10.29
Naturo Senior Dog Turkey with Rice and Vegetables 7pk
Turkey at 65% in a senior wet tray, with brown rice, vegetables and added joint support
£11.99
Vitalin Adult Dog Pork with Apple
Complete dry food for adult dogs of any age, led by pork, with citrus extract for dental support
From£11.99
Braque Français health & costs
Before bringing a Braque Français home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£600–850 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£35–62 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£0–60 / year
Mostly DIY at home
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Braque Français is generally regarded as a hardy, healthy breed without a long list of well-documented inherited disorders, again reflecting its continuing role as a working dog. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia and pay attention to the joint, ear and eye health typical of sporting breeds.
As a rare breed in the UK, large breed-specific health datasets are limited, and much advice is drawn from gundogs more broadly. Buyers should ask about hip scoring and any eye testing, and should keep up routine preventive care including ear cleaning and weight management.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Hip dysplasia — a developmental joint disorder common across gundogs; ask breeders for hip scores.
- Ear infections — pendulous ears need regular checking and cleaning to prevent moisture-related infections.
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) — a concern in deeper-chested dogs; manage feeding and exercise timing.
- Eye disorders — occasional hereditary eye conditions; eye screening of breeding stock is sensible.
- Exercise-related injuries — cuts, strains and footpad damage are occupational risks for an active field dog.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Braque Français; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Braque Français puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Braque Français
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early — larger breeds age sooner, so start senior care from around 6–7 years.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Calm, gentle and easy to train
- Low-maintenance short coat
Things to consider
- Needs substantial daily exercise
- Strong hunting drive and nose
Compare the Braque Français
See how the Braque Français measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Braque Français?
The Braque Français, or French Pointer, is one of France's oldest pointing breeds. It exists in two distinct types: the larger Braque Français type Gascogne and the smaller, more common type Pyrénées. Bred as an all-round gundog to point and retrieve, it wears a short chestnut-brown and white coat, often ticked or roan, and is prized for a calm, eager-to-please nature.
What is the difference between the Gascogne and Pyrénées types?
The two types of Braque Français differ mainly in size. The Braque Français type Gascogne is the larger of the two, while the type Pyrénées is smaller and more common. Across both, the breed ranges widely, roughly 47–69 cm and 17–32 kg. The larger Gascogne can have slightly greater stamina demands, but both are genuine working pointers built for endurance.
What is the temperament of a Braque Français?
The Braque Français is renowned for a sweet, gentle temperament. It is typically calm, affectionate and biddable, forming close bonds with its family and generally proving good with children and tolerant of other dogs when properly socialised. Despite its placid home manner, it is a working pointer with a powerful hunting instinct and a sensitive disposition.
Are Braque Français easy to train?
Few pointing breeds are as easy to train. The Braque Français is intelligent, willing and quick to learn with reward-based methods, and responds especially well to gundog-style training. Early recall and steadiness work are essential, as the breed's strong nose can override an unreliable recall. Its sensitivity means harsh corrections are counterproductive.
How much exercise does a Braque Français need?
This is a high-energy breed needing substantial daily exercise, comfortably one to two hours or more of varied activity including free running and scent work, plus mental stimulation. It is happiest with access to open ground where it can range and use its nose, making it unsuited to flat or sedentary living. Long, varied outings suit it far better than a single brisk walk.
Is the Braque Français a good family dog?
Yes, in the right home. Its gentle, sociable nature makes it a fine family companion that mixes well with children and other dogs. However, it is a poor fit for sedentary households, small flats or homes where it would be left alone for long periods. Well exercised and in good company, it is calm and affectionate indoors.
What health problems affect the Braque Français?
The Braque Français is generally regarded as a hardy, healthy breed without a long list of well-documented inherited disorders, reflecting its continuing role as a working dog. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia and pay attention to joint, ear and eye health. As a rare breed in the UK, large breed-specific datasets are limited, so ask about hip scoring and eye testing.
How long does a Braque Français live?
The Braque Français typically lives around 12–14 years. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight, providing plenty of exercise, maintaining routine ear cleaning and preventive care, and buying from health-screened parents all help support a long and healthy life.
Are Braque Françaises good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Braque Françaiss tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Braque Français need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Braque Français needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Braque Françaises shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is wash-and-go — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Braque Françaises easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Braque Françaiss are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Braque Françaises bark a lot?
Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Braque Françaises good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Braque Françaises suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Braque Français really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club (UK) – breed and health information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) breed standards, Braque Français (Gascogne / Pyrénées): https://www.fci.org/
- PDSA – dog health and care advice: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice
- Blue Cross – dog ownership guidance: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/
Recommended for your Braque Français
Matched to a Braque Français's size and their typical need for enrichment & mental stimulation, no-pull walking kit, a cosy bed.
Hollings Choice Cuts Pure Beef Curls
Hollings Choice Cuts Pure Beef Curls: 100g bag, with declared composition and analysis
£3.49
Reflective Two-Tone Dog Harness and Lead Set
A bright two-tone step-in dog harness with a matching lead. Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles give a snug fit, while reflective trim keeps your dog visible on darker walks.
£7.99
L-Shaped Bolster Sofa Dog Bed
A supportive L-shaped sofa bed with a raised bolster back and side for your dog to rest their head. The thick padded base cushions joints, and the soft rose-velvet cover is removable and washable for easy care.
From£44.99
Plush Snuffle Foraging Mat
A roll-up plush snuffle mat with cute animal designs. Hide treats in the folds and let your pet sniff and forage to find them - a rewarding enrichment game that beats boredom and slows feeding.
£13.99
Plush Bee Cat Harness and Lead Set
A soft plush cat harness with a 3D bee charm and a matching lead, adjustable at neck and chest, made for kittens, cats and very small dogs on gentle outings.
£7.99
Corduroy Dog Harness with Bow
A soft corduroy step-in dog harness with breathable mesh lining and gold-tone alloy buckles. The adjustable fit and pretty bow detail make walks comfortable and stylish for small and medium dogs.
From£7.99
Orthopaedic Memory Foam Dog Sofa Bed
An orthopaedic memory-foam dog bed with supportive bolster sides for head and neck resting. The egg-crate foam core cushions joints and distributes weight, ideal for older or larger dogs needing extra support.
From£39.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.