Gascons Saintongeois

Approximately 300 years ago, Count Joseph de Carayon-Latour wanted to increase the numbers of the Hound of Saintonge breed of dog. The Count crossed a dog named Blues de Gascogne with the last descendants of the Saintonge breed. The resultant creation was the Grand Gascon Saintongeois. Sometime in the twentieth century, hunters in France began to breed the smallest of the Saintonges. The result was what is now known as the petit variety of the breed. These dogs are used for hunting to this day.

The Gascons Saintongeois is a large breed of dog, standing close to 28 inches tall. The dog is white in color and has black or brown spots. The spots are large and primarily located near the base of the tail and top of the head. The ears of this breed are pendulous and dark. The muzzle is long, the eyes are almond-shaped and the legs are straight. Saintongeois are strong, well-muscled dogs bred for hunting. The breed should not be too heavy or too thin. Quality members of the breed are lean and have a strength that is evident.

Personality

Gascons Saintongeois are happy dogs that bond strongly with their owners. As hunters, these dogs need a job to do. While these dogs are happy to romp and play instead of hunt, that play must take place daily. Not content to sit on the couch and snuggle with their humans, these dogs must have something to occupy their bodies and minds. The Saintongeois gets along well with people and other animals. Because they are hunters, socialization should happen early and often. Obedience class is also a good idea for this dog.

Breed Characteristics

Gascons Saintongeois Build Information

The Gascons Saintongeois is a large breed of dog, standing close to 28 inches tall. The dog is white in color and has black or brown spots. The spots are large and primarily located near the base of the tail and top of the head. The ears of this breed are pendulous and dark. The muzzle is long, the eyes are almond-shaped and the legs are straight. Saintongeois are strong, well-muscled dogs bred for hunting. The breed should not be too heavy or too thin. Quality members of the breed are lean and have a strength that is evident.

Behaviour and Personality

Gascons Saintongeois are happy dogs that bond strongly with their owners. As hunters, these dogs need a job to do. While these dogs are happy to romp and play instead of hunt, that play must take place daily. Not content to sit on the couch and snuggle with their humans, these dogs must have something to occupy their bodies and minds. The Saintongeois gets along well with people and other animals. Because they are hunters, socialization should happen early and often. Obedience class is also a good idea for this dog.

Appearance

Grooming the Saintongeois is not difficult. Because the dog has a short hair coat, weekly brushing is all that is required unless the dog is dirty. The long, pendulous ears make the dog prone to ear infections. Owners should clean the ears out once weekly and teeth should be brushed daily.

Gascons Saintongeois Common Health Conditions

The Gascons Saintongeois is not prone to any particular health issues. Dogs of any breed should visit the veterinarian at least once each year to stave off any illness. Your veterinarian can alert you to any potential problems in your dog.

Gascons Saintongeois Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

This dog is an avid hunter and needs work to do. The Saintongeois is an expert rabbit catcher. Good with children, this breed is a great one for active families. This dog is not known by any other names.