Picardy Spaniel

The Picardy Spaniel (Épagneul Picard) is a medium-sized French pointing spaniel developed in the marshy Picardy region of north-west France. Standing roughly 55–62 cm and weighing around 20–25 kg, it was bred as a versatile gundog that could point, flush and retrieve in wet, demanding country, while also serving as a calm family companion.

The Picardy Spaniel is very rare in the UK and is not separately recognised by the Kennel Club. It is recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), and most reliable information comes from the breed's French parent club and the FCI. Prospective owners should treat it as a true working gundog.

Picardy Spaniels are typically gentle, even-tempered and deeply attached to their people. They are calm and affectionate indoors once their exercise needs are met and generally get on well with children and other dogs. They are sensitive working dogs, though, and can become bored or restless without enough physical and mental activity.

This is a high-energy working breed that needs substantial daily exercise, ideally well over an hour of varied activity, including off-lead running in safe areas, scent work and swimming. A garden alone is not enough. The breed was made to cover ground all day and is happiest in an active home with access to open countryside.

The medium-length, slightly wavy coat carries feathering on the ears, legs and tail and needs regular brushing, typically a few times a week, to prevent matting and remove field debris. The drop ears should be checked and cleaned routinely, as water-working breeds are prone to ear infections, and the coat should be rinsed and dried after muddy or wet work.

As a biddable, intelligent spaniel, the Picardy generally responds well to consistent, varied, reward-based training and thrives on having a purpose. Because it is sensitive, harsh methods are counterproductive. Early socialisation and a focus on recall and impulse control around game are especially valuable given its hunting heritage.

The Picardy is generally considered hardy, but it is rare enough that robust breed-specific health data is scarce, so any single figure should be viewed with caution. Responsible breeders prioritise sound hips, healthy eyes and good temperament. Buyers should ask to see relevant health screening of the parents and register the dog with a vet for routine care.

In the right home, yes. The Picardy suits an active rural or semi-rural household with secure outdoor space and people who enjoy daily countryside exercise. It is affectionate and bonds closely with the whole family, but it is not well suited to apartment living or to being left alone all day, as it needs company and room to run.

Good with children. As a general guide, Picardy Spaniels 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 Picardy Spaniel 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.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.

Manageable for committed beginners. Picardy Spaniels are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

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

Needs plenty of space. A Picardy Spaniel really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.