Billy

Alternative names: No commonly known alternative names.

History of the breed

The Billy is a rare French hunting dog breed that originated in the 19th century in the Poitou region of France. The breed was developed by Gaston Hublot du Rivault, who combined several old French hunting dog breeds to create a fast, efficient, and elegant hunting dog. The Billy is known for its endurance, precision, and adaptability, and was originally bred for hunting big game.

Character and temperament

The Billy is an energetic, devoted, and friendly dog. It is sociable and affectionate, yet retains an independent nature due to its history as a hunting dog. Billys are loyal to their family and are known for their gentle and patient nature. This breed is eager to learn and enjoys both physical and mental challenges.

Physical characteristics

Shoulder height : 58-70 cm.
Weight : 25-35 kg.
Coat : Short, dense and smooth.
Colors : White, cream or light orange, sometimes with subtle markings.
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 40-55 cm, chest circumference 70-85 cm.

Care

The Billy has a low-maintenance coat that only requires weekly brushing. This helps remove loose hair and keeps the skin healthy. Check his ears regularly to prevent infections, especially after outdoor activities. Keep his nails trimmed and ensure good dental care.

Movement and activity

The Billy is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. Long walks, running, and activities like tracking or hunting training are essential. He has great stamina and enjoys spending time in nature. A Billy can adapt to family life but needs sufficient space and activity to feel happy and healthy.

Health

The Billy is generally a healthy breed, but can be prone to:

Hip dysplasia
Ear infections
Overweight (due to insufficient exercise)

The average life expectancy is 12-14 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet is essential for this active breed. Billys eat an average of 400-600 grams of food per day, depending on their weight and activity level. Divide the food into two meals to prevent digestive problems.

Training and socialization

The Billy is intelligent and learns quickly, but can sometimes act independently due to its hunting background. A gentle but consistent approach with positive reinforcement works best. Early socialization is important to ensure it gets along well with other animals and people.

Suitability for owners

The Billy is an ideal dog for active and experienced owners who understand how to handle its energetic and independent nature. It's perfect for hunters or those who enjoy long walks and time in nature. This breed requires a large garden or access to spacious outdoor areas, as it needs plenty of space to expend its energy. The Billy can thrive in a family with older children, but is less suitable for homes where it's often left alone. Its strong bond with its family makes it a loyal companion, but it needs an owner willing to invest time in its physical and mental needs.

Share your experience with us!

Do you have a Billy? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!