The Complete Picardy Spaniel Owner's Handbook

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Picardienspa1
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The Picardy Spaniel is a rare and unique breed that requires special care and attention. They are a medium-sized dog with a gentle and affectionate nature.

To ensure you provide the best possible life for your Picardy Spaniel, it's essential to understand their grooming needs. They have a medium-length coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

Picardy Spaniels are generally good with children, especially if socialized from an early age. However, as with any breed, it's crucial to supervise interactions between dogs and young children.

Their exercise needs are relatively moderate, requiring daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.

Appearance

The Picardy Spaniel is a medium to large-sized dog with a sturdy and muscular build. They have a distinctive blue speckled coat that is dense and water-repellent.

Their height at the withers varies between 55-62 cm for males and 55-60 cm for females. The breed's coat is flat or slightly wavy, with feathering on the ears, legs, and tail.

Credit: youtube.com, Picardy Spaniel - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

The Picardy Spaniel has a well-rounded and wide head with a prominent occiput, and their stops slope gently to the muzzle. Their ears are set quite low framing a dog's head with silky wavy hair.

Their necks are muscular and they merge smoothly into a dog's well-developed shoulders, with chests that are wide and deep. The breed's front legs are well feathered, muscular, and straight.

The Picardy Spaniel's coat color is characterized by grey mottling all over their body with brown markings found on various parts of their body and the root of the tail. Here's a breakdown of the breed's coloration:

  • Grey mottling all over the body
  • Brown markings on various parts of the body and the root of the tail
  • Tan markings on the limbs and head

Their eyes are a dark amber, and their noses are medium in size and brown in color. The breed has a strong back that's slightly lower at their wither, with loins that are full and wide.

Blue Temperament

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a friendly and playful breed that thrives on human companionship.

Credit: youtube.com, Blue Picardy Spaniel Pros and Cons | Épagneul Bleu de Picardie Advantages and Disadvantages

They are generally calm and gentle, making them a great match for families with children.

Blue Picardies are highly trainable, but they do require a lot of attention and socialization from an early age.

They are adaptable to both country and city living, but they do need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

These dogs are known to be quiet, but they will let you know if a stranger is around, making them a good choice for families who value their independence.

Blue Picardy Spaniels are loyal and affectionate, and they make great family companions.

They are highly trainable, but they respond best to positive reinforcement techniques and gentle handling.

In short, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a wonderful breed that is perfect for families who are looking for a loyal and loving companion.

Health

The Picardy Spaniel is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is one condition that can affect the breed, so it's essential to find a reputable breeder who has had their stud dogs hip scored by the Animal Health Trust or a BVA registered vet.

Credit: youtube.com, The Picardy Spaniel or Epagneul Picard

Ear infections are also common in Picardy Spaniels, especially with their pendulous ears. Regular ear cleaning and inspections can help prevent these infections.

Older Picardy Spaniels need special care, with a focus on maintaining muscle tone and preventing weight gain. A good quality diet that meets their needs at this stage of their lives is crucial, with a rough feeding guide suggesting the following nutrient levels:

With proper care and attention, older Picardy Spaniels can live happy and healthy lives.

Health

The Picardy Spaniel is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Their average lifespan is between 10 and 14 years.

Hip dysplasia is a common health issue in Picardy Spaniels, and responsible breeders should have their stud dogs hip scored by a reputable organization. This can help identify potential problems early on.

Ear infections are another issue that can affect Picardy Spaniels, especially those with pendulous ears. Regular ear cleaning and checks can help prevent these infections.

Epagneul bleu de Picardie
Credit: wikimedia.org, Epagneul bleu de Picardie

Older Picardy Spaniels may develop certain health concerns, such as arthritis, reduced strength and stamina, and difficulty regulating their body temperature. They may also become pickier about their food and have a lower pain threshold.

Here are some dietary guidelines for older Picardy Spaniels:

Overall, regular care and attention can help prevent or manage many of the health issues that can affect Picardy Spaniels.

Lifespan

The lifespan of a Blue Picardy Spaniel is a remarkable 12 to 14 years, allowing them to be beloved family companions for a long time.

With proper nutrition, they can live a long and fulfilling life. Regular veterinary care is also crucial in ensuring they stay healthy.

Do Like Water?

Picardy Spaniels love being in and around water, and will take to it whenever they can, no matter the weather.

It's essential to remember that not all dogs share this enthusiasm, so it's crucial to respect their boundaries and never force them into water.

Man Wearing Camouflage Clothing Hunting in a Terrain with a Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Man Wearing Camouflage Clothing Hunting in a Terrain with a Dog

Care should always be taken when walking a Picardy Spaniel off the lead near more dangerous watercourses, just in case they decide to leap in and need rescuing.

Forcing a dog that doesn't like water into the water can end up scaring them, so it's best to prioritize their comfort and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are picardy spaniels rare?

Yes, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a rare breed. Its unique ancestry from Picardy Spaniel, English Setter, and Gordon Setter makes it a less common sight.

Do picardy spaniels point or flush?

Picardy Spaniels are known to point game, often standing up and displaying a distinctive, stylish movement. They do not typically flush game.

How many Picardy spaniels are there?

There are approximately 2,300 Picardy Spaniels worldwide, with around 280 residing in North America. This rare breed is surprisingly healthy and long-lived, making it a fascinating breed to learn more about.

Are Picardy spaniels good dogs?

Yes, Picardy Spaniels are known for their gentle and sociable nature, making them a great choice for families and first-time dog owners. They are relatively easy to train and bond well with their owners.

What is the difference between a Blue Picardy Spaniel and a Picardy Spaniel?

The main difference between a Blue Picardy Spaniel and a Picardy Spaniel is the color of their coat. The Blue Picardy Spaniel excels in hunting small game, especially woodcock, within close range.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.

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