Chien Français Blanc et Noir

This is a large French scenthound. Adults typically stand around 62 to 72 cm at the shoulder and weigh roughly 30 to 35 kg, with an athletic, deep-chested frame built for stamina over long days in the field rather than for living as a compact house dog.

As a large working hound, it typically lives around 10 to 12 years. As with any breed, lifespan varies with genetics, diet, exercise and routine veterinary care. Keeping the dog lean and fit and sourcing from a responsible breeder give the best chance of a long, healthy life.

It is renowned for being highly sociable, affectionate and even-tempered, thriving in the company of both dogs and people thanks to its pack-hunting heritage. That friendliness comes with a powerful scent drive, an independent streak and a loud, carrying hound voice. It dislikes being isolated and is happiest when active and engaged.

A great deal. This is a very high-energy working hound built to range over long distances, so it needs extensive daily exercise and ideally a genuine working role. Because recall becomes unreliable once it catches a scent, free running should only happen in securely fenced areas. It is poorly suited to a sedentary life.

Grooming is straightforward. The short, smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair and sheds moderately, with no specialist grooming required. As a drop-eared hound, its pendulous ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to help prevent infections, alongside routine nail trimming and dental care.

Yes, sociability is one of its defining traits. Bred to work cooperatively in packs, it is typically excellent with other dogs and good-natured with people, including families. It is not a guarding breed. Its size, energy and loud voice mean interactions with young children should always be supervised.

Breed-specific data is limited as it is rare outside France, so guidance leans on general large-hound principles. Like most large breeds it can be prone to hip dysplasia, and deep-chested dogs carry a risk of bloat (a sudden emergency). Its long ears need regular care to prevent infections. Ask breeders about screening and longevity.

Generally no. Its powerful scent drive, unreliable recall, loud voice and demanding exercise needs make it best suited to experienced, active owners, ideally those involved in hunting or able to provide an equivalent outlet. It needs secure fencing and on-lead control in open areas, and is poorly matched to urban or apartment life.

Good with children. As a general guide, Chien Français Blanc et Noirs tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Chien Français Blanc et Noir needs 2 hours or more, plus a job to do of exercise a day (120–180 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.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is wash-and-go — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.

Better with some experience. Chien Français Blanc et Noirs are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.

Very sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Chien Français Blanc et Noir really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.