Ariegeois

Other Names

Ariege Hound
French Hound

History

The Ariegeois is a medium-sized hunting dog breed originating from the Ariège region in southern France. The breed was developed in the 20th century by crossing local French hunting dogs with the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and the Grand Gascon Saintongeois. The Ariegeois was specifically bred for hunting hares and other small game in the hilly and wooded areas of southern France. While popular among hunters, it is rarely kept as a companion animal.

Character and Temperament

The Ariegeois is friendly, gentle, and very energetic. They are social and get along well with other dogs, but have a strong prey drive. This makes them less suitable for households with small animals. They need a dedicated and active owner who understands their physical and mental needs.

External Features

Shoulder height: 50-58 cm
Weight: 25-30 kg
Coat: Short and dense
Color: White with black markings and sometimes tan markings.
Neck circumference: 40-50 cm (for collars)
Chest circumference: 70-85 cm (for harnesses)

Care

The Ariegeois' short coat requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. Regularly check the ears, especially after hunting activities, to prevent infections.

Movement and Activity

The Ariegeois is an active breed that needs a lot of exercise. Long walks, running, and tracking are ideal. This breed thrives during hunting, but can also enjoy other task-oriented activities. A large, secure, fenced area is essential to control their energy and prey drive.

Health

The Ariegeois is generally a healthy breed, but can be susceptible to:

Ear infections
Hip dysplasia: With proper care and sufficient exercise, they can reach an age of 10-12 years.

Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in protein and fats is important to support their energy levels. An adult Ariegeois needs an average of 400-600 grams of dog food per day, depending on their activity level. Always provide fresh water.

Training and Socialization

The Ariegeois is intelligent and a quick learner, but can be stubborn. Early socialization and a consistent, patient approach are essential. They need an owner experienced with hunting dogs and who can train them using positive reinforcement.

Suitability for Owners

The Ariegeois is best suited for hunters or very active owners who spend a lot of time outdoors. They are less suitable for city dwellers or people with little time for exercise and training. This breed requires an owner who understands their natural instincts and can challenge them physically and mentally.

Share Your Ariegeois!

Do you own an Ariegeois? Share a photo of your loyal four-legged friend and inspire others with this special hunting breed! We also invite you to contact us if you'd like to participate in a video for FidelloTV. We'd love to hear more about your experiences with this breed and would be thrilled to visit and learn more about your dog for our YouTube page!