Dogs

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN France

MOST SUITED AS Formerly mainly a field sports dog, today a family pet.

SIZE
The shoulder-height is 57 - 60cm ( 22 1/2 - 23 1/2in) for dogs and slightly less for bitches.

COAT
The medium-length hair forms a smooth or lightly waved coat. The black and white colours are so intermingled that the appearance is of a blue coat.

CARE REQUIRED
The Epagneul Bleu de Picardie does not need much attention to its coat. An occasional brushing, particularly in the areas where the coat is thickest, is sufficient to keep it in good condition.

CHARACTER
These dogs are gentle-natured, sociable, intelligent and obedient, pliable, loyal, friendly, affectionate, and they have a good scenting nose.

TRAINING
These dogs learn quickly and easily. They react well to the voice and no firm correction should be necessary. Because they like to please their handler, they are an ideal choice for those without much experience of dogs.

SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
This breed is very adaptable and gets on well with dogs and other animals. They are generally very loving and patient with children. They are certainly vigilant and will always announce the presence of strangers - and, if necessary, will protect the people close to it.

EXERCISE
This former field sports dog can be very happy in its role as family pet but that does not mean it will be content with three little circuits of the neighbourhood each day. Take it on hikes regularly and give it the chance to run about and to play. They are normally mad keen on water and love to retrieve.