Without doubt, France is a country recognized internationally for its culture, architecture and gastronomy. However, we cannot forget the number of dog breeds that are originally from their territory. Nowadays, we can find more than forty canine breeds that have originated in these lands. However, some of these breeds have become extinct over the years. In this article we are going to explore the ten most popular French dog breeds together!
The Barbet
The first on our list is the Barbet, a type of water breed with a strong body and medium size. He has long curly hair and is popularly called the ‘ancestor of the poodle’. As a curiosity, there are several controversies and theories about its origin but it is usually recognized as a French breed, being one of the oldest breeds on the European continent.
The Poodle
The poodle or medium poodle is the most popular French breed in the world. What is the reason behind this? Not only are they adorable in appearance and especially sensitive, but they are some of the most intelligent dogs in the world. The most distinguished physical aspect of the poodle is its curly hair that requires high maintenance. If you have an adult poodle, you should wash it every 21 to 35 days or so. It is important to note that excess washing can dermatologically alter what can generate allergies in the future.
The Basset Hound
The basset hound is a dog that belongs to the group of hounds that originated in the Lorraine region of France, specifically in Saint Hubert. His ancestry is also doubtful, it is believed that he may have descended from certain bloodhound lineages. Of course, his name is clear! Basset contains ‘bas’ which in French means ‘low’ as can be seen in its short limbs.
Their sad faces are also a very peculiar characteristic of these dogs. Although at first, they used to be hunting dogs because of their excellent sense of smell and tracking, now they are companion dogs. They have a loyal, funny character and are one of the calmest breeds in the world.
The French Bulldog
The French bulldog or ‘Frenchie’ is one of the most popular breeds of French origin characterized by its small size, fat or robust. He likes to play and is affectionate, what stands out about him are his ‘bat’ ears. These dogs require a lot of attention since they are very sociable, causing the lack of company to alter their behaviour and easily develop anxiety. Therefore, if you spend a lot of time away from home, it is better to prefer another breed.
The papillon
The papillon is one of the most elegant dogs in the world due to its graceful and smooth gait. It is a very intelligent, active and affectionate dog with well-known people, not so much with strangers. Therefore, if we want a sociable and adequate behaviour in society, we must train it so that it can socialize at an early age.
The Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is an ancient French breed that was used for hunting due to its large and protective bearing. Unfortunately, the Dogue de Bordeaux was also used as a fighting dog until it was banned in the 19th century. His face is striking due to his numerous wrinkles that are visible especially when he is attentive. It can be considered an aggressive dog due to its powerful jaw. However, we should not define the behaviour with its morphology. If we want a balanced and educated behaviour it must be educated and socialized correctly.
The Briard Shepherd
The Brie or Briard Shepherd, although not so well known outside of France, is a dog that definitely draws attention due to its attractive appearance with its rectangular body and developed musculature. His coat is long, dry and rough in texture, it is bought with goat hair. He is an active, loyal dog who likes to play.
Because they are very protective and loving towards their family, they can be somewhat shy around strangers. Therefore, we must socialize them from an early age so that they can maintain positive relationships with other animals and people. As their name suggests, they have originated in the Brie region, where the famous Brie cheese has also been created. It is recognized for being one of the oldest dogs in France.
The Gran Bleu de Gascogne
The Gran Bleu de Gascogne is originally from the region of Gascogne. It is one of the most popular breeds in the country, although it has little international recognition. Its large and impotent size with a muscular body that has long legs and floppy ears, together with its great sense of smell, makes it a hunting dog in pack. Later, it was assigned as a companion dog due to its loyal and noble demeanor. However, it is characterized by its powerful bark so it needs special attention and socialization in order not to develop a compulsive bark. It is advisable to be a very experienced tutor.
The Beauce Shepherd
The Beauce Shepherd, or Beauceron, is a dog with a rustic and muscular body, usually black in colour. His name has its origin in the lands where this breed originated, on the outskirts of Paris, called Beauce. They were used in field work for their great ability to guide sheeps and protect the lands and pastures. They were also sent to the two world wars with the French army. They are considered loyal, energetic and very affectionate with their family nucleus.
The Pyrenean Mountain dog
Our last breed today is the Pyrenean Mountain dog or Great Pyrenees, it is originated in the mountains of the Pyrenees between the territories of France and Spain and for this reason it could be considered as a Franco-Spanish breed, which is why it has great controversy about its origin. This breed was considered a royal dog of the French court by King Louis XIV himself.
Although they are considered companion dogs today, they still have functions to care for the herds in this region. This loyal and independent dog requires a large space and a good amount of food for optimal nutrition. As we can guess, being from this mountainous and cold region, they are dogs with a lot of fur that require to be brushed even three times a week and do not tolerate heat well.
To conclude
Although there are many more French breeds, this list could be a good indicator of the ten most famous breeds that originated in France and possess infinite qualities, from service and company, to hunting, guard or company. Their origins vary from different parts of France, they have been used as hunting dogs but later as companion dogs. We can observe that although some breeds are more dangerous or find it difficult to socialize, all this can change with good training and socialization from a temporary age.
