Bourbonnais Braque

Alternative names: Bourbonnais Pointer, French Bourbonnais Pointer.

History of the breed

The Braque du Bourbonnais is an old French breed originating in the Bourbonnais region of France, with a history dating back to the 16th century. This versatile hunting dog was bred to both track and retrieve game. The breed nearly became extinct in the 20th century, but thanks to enthusiasts, it was rescued and redeveloped. Today, it is a beloved breed for hunting and as a family pet.

Character and temperament

The Braque du Bourbonnais is an intelligent, affectionate, and versatile dog. It is friendly and sociable, making it good with people and other pets. This breed has a strong hunting instinct, but is also remarkably calm and devoted indoors. It is eager to learn and enjoys spending time with its family.

Physical characteristics

Height at the withers : 48-57 cm (male), 47-55 cm (female).
Weight : 16-25 kg.
Coat : Short and fine.
Colors : Liver or peach roan (marbled pattern).
Sizes for collars and harnesses : Neck circumference 35-45 cm, chest circumference 60-75 cm.

Care

The Braque du Bourbonnais's coat requires little maintenance. A weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. Check the ears regularly, especially as their drooping ears can be prone to infection. Keep the nails trimmed and ensure good dental care.

Movement and activity

This breed is energetic and needs plenty of exercise. Long walks, runs, and activities like tracking or retrieving are ideal. The Braque du Bourbonnais enjoys physical challenges and mental stimulation, making dog sports like obedience and field work perfect for them. They need a large yard or access to spacious outdoor areas.

Health

The Braque du Bourbonnais is a relatively healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Possible health problems include:

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Ear infections (due to drooping ears)

Power supply

A balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats is important for this active breed. On average, they eat 300-400 grams of food per day, depending on their activity level and weight. Divide the food into two meals to prevent digestive problems.

Training and socialization

The Braque du Bourbonnais is intelligent and eager to learn, making it relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement and consistency work best. Because of its strong prey drive, it's important to socialize and train it at a young age, especially in situations with other animals.

Suitability for owners

The Braque du Bourbonnais is ideal for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or hunting. This breed requires an owner who can dedicate sufficient time to exercise and mental stimulation. It's a good fit for those seeking a versatile and affectionate dog that excels both in the field and at home. The Braque du Bourbonnais gets along well with children but benefits from a calm and stable environment. It's less suitable for those with a busy urban lifestyle or a small apartment, as it needs space and activity. This breed is perfect for owners who enjoy hunting or dog sports and are willing to build a strong bond with their dog.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Braque du Bourbonnais? 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!