Ariege Pointer

The Braque de l'Ariège is a large French pointing dog from the Pyrenean foothills, built for hot, open country and worked at a distance.

History

It was developed in the Ariège from the Braque Français crossed with lighter southern pointers, to get a dog that could quarter dry, hot ground without wilting. It came very close to disappearing after the Second World War, and the population alive today descends from a revival effort begun in the 1990s by a small group of French breeders.

Temperament

The breed is known for being independent and enthusiastic in the field and calm at home, affectionate with its own people and somewhat reserved with strangers.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and work for its nose, and it ranges further than most pointing breeds — so recall matters early. Training should be encouraging; it does not take pressure well. The short coat is easy.

Health

Generally sound, with hip dysplasia and ear infections among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.