The Artois Hound was developed in France where it was mainly used to hunt deer, rabbits, foxes and wild boars. These dogs are known by several names including Artois Hounds, French Artois Hounds, Picards, Picardy Hounds, Chien d'Artois, Briquets d'Artois and Briquets. Today, the Artois Hound is still an excellent hunting dog. It is thought that Artois Hounds have been in existence in France since about the 16th century. This is due mainly to various 16th century paintings and other pieces of art that depict these types of dogs. It is believed that they are likely related to such breeds as the Beagle, Normands Hound and the Bloodhound. Even during these early days, the Artois Hound was mainly used for hunting purposes. The breed almost became extinct during the 20th century, but a man by the name of Audrechy of Buigny les Gamaches helped to repopulate the dogs. Today, the dog remains an excellent hunting dog; however, they are most commonly seen in their native France.
The Artois Hound is a large dog that can weigh about 55 to 65 pounds as an adult. These dogs look much like over-sized Beagles. However, they do have some characteristics of the Bloodhound as well. Their ears are quite long, and they have a square muzzle, long tail and short stiff hair that is tri-colored.
Personality
The Artois Hound is a friendly and loyal dog that makes a great companion or family pet. However, with its strong desire to hunt and chase game, if you choose to bring one of these dogs into your home, you will want to be sure to provide it with plenty of room to run and explore. This is a highly energetic dog that has a strong sense of smell and loves tracking down game. They are also extremely loyal and affectionate, which makes them great companions and family pets. Nevertheless, this is a breed of dog that is happiest when they are allowed to run and explore.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | The Artois Hounds, French Artois Hounds, Picards, Picardy Hounds, Chien d'Artois, Briquets d'Artois and Briquets. |
Artois Hound Build Information
The Artois Hound is a large dog that can weigh about 55 to 65 pounds as an adult. These dogs look much like over-sized Beagles. However, they do have some characteristics of the Bloodhound as well. Their ears are quite long, and they have a square muzzle, long tail and short stiff hair that is tri-colored.
| Size: | large |
Behaviour and Personality
The Artois Hound is a friendly and loyal dog that makes a great companion or family pet. However, with its strong desire to hunt and chase game, if you choose to bring one of these dogs into your home, you will want to be sure to provide it with plenty of room to run and explore. This is a highly energetic dog that has a strong sense of smell and loves tracking down game. They are also extremely loyal and affectionate, which makes them great companions and family pets. Nevertheless, this is a breed of dog that is happiest when they are allowed to run and explore.
| Activity Level: | Low activity level |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very kid friendly |
Appearance
With their short coats, Artois Hounds do not need a lot of grooming. However, you will want to brush its hair about once a week with a hound glove. Bathing your Artois Hound about once every other week should be sufficient unless it becomes overly dirty. Be sure to check your pet's ears regularly, trim its nails when necessary and brush its teeth about two or three times per week.
| Shedding: | Little |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Artois Hound Common Health Conditions
Artois Hounds are generally hardy dogs that can live up to 13 years when they are taken care of properly. However, there are a few health issues some of these dogs can be prone to developing, and they include hip and elbow dysplasia, anesthesia sensitivity, ear infections, cryptorchidism, bloat, and primary lens luxation.
Artois Hound 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
Currently, the only organization that maintains a standard for the Artois Hound is the Federation Cynologique Internationale. There are only about 500 registered Artois Hounds in existence today. The UKC recognized the breed in 2006 listing it as Chiens d'Artois.
| Training: | Moderately Easy |