Pont-Audemer Spaniel

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a curly-topped French water spaniel and one of the rarest gun dogs in Europe.

History

It comes from the marshes around Pont-Audemer in Normandy and was made by crossing French spaniels with Irish Water Spaniel stock, which gave it the curled topknot the French call its clown's wig. It nearly disappeared after the Second World War, and in 1980 its club merged with the Picardy Spaniel's to keep enough breeders together to save it. Annual registrations are still counted in dozens.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, cheerful and closely attached to its handler, sociable at home and enthusiastic in water.

Care and training

It needs substantial exercise and access to water. The curly coat needs regular brushing and light trimming. Training suits gentle consistency.

Health

Generally sound; a very small breeding population is the standing genetic caution, and ear infections are the usual complaint in a water dog. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.