blue picardy spaniel Dog Breed Information: Characteristics, Behavior, Temperament, Lifespan, Weight

The Blue Picardy Spaniel’s beauty stands out before anyone thinks over its price. This elegant hunting breed emerged from northern France’s Picardy region in the early 20th century. Breeders created these dogs by mixing Blue Belton English Setters with French hunting Spaniels.

The standard Picardy Spaniel shows chocolate or chestnut brown colors. However, its blue cousin catches eyes with a unique ticked blue and gray coat that features dark blue or black patches. These medium to medium-large pointing Spaniels remain relatively rare today. They excel both as hunters and gentle companions. The breed club didn’t recognize Blue Picardys separately until 1937, which makes them newer than other Picardy breeds. These dogs typically live 12-14 years[-2] and weigh between 40-45 pounds (18-25 kg)[-2]. Their obedient and even-tempered nature pairs well with strong hunting abilities.

Breed Origin and History

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Breed Origin and History

Where the Blue Picardy Spaniel comes from

The Blue Picardy Spaniel’s story started in northern France’s beautiful Picardy region. This elegant hunting dog isn’t as old as many other breeds. It first appeared in the early 20th century near the River Somme’s mouth – a place that hunters called paradise for wildfowl.

The breed came about through an interesting turn of events. British hunters often came to northern France to hunt in the early 1900s. They brought their English Setters along, especially ones with blue Belton coloring. The UK’s strict quarantine rules made it hard for hunters to take their dogs back home after hunting season. Many English Setters stayed with local families in Picardy.

These English Setters bred with local Picardy Spaniels, which brought the black and blue-gray coat colors into the mix. Someone spotted the first black, blue-gray Spaniel back in 1875. The breed really took shape in the early 20th century.

These dogs became skilled hunting partners. They stood out for their great sense of smell and could handle the wet, marshy ground you find in northern France. They excelled at finding, pointing to, and bringing back game birds in tough conditions.

How it is different from the Picardy Spaniel

The Blue Picardy Spaniel and Picardy Spaniel are related but separate breeds with clear differences. The Picardy Spaniel goes way back to around 1200 AD. It’s one of Europe’s oldest spaniel breeds. The Blue Picardy Spaniel showed up much later around 1938 AD.

You can spot the main difference between these French hunting dogs by their coats:

• Picardy Spaniel: Has a chocolate or chestnut brown coat
• Blue Picardy Spaniel: Shows off a black and gray/blue coat thanks to its English Setter background

These breeds aren’t just different on the outside. The Blue Picardy tends to have a gentler personality than the original Picardy Spaniel. They’ve been separate breeds since the 1930s, with more differences than just their coat colors.

Both breeds almost disappeared during the World Wars. World War II hit them especially hard. Thanks to dedicated breeders, these valuable hunting dogs survived.

Recognition by breed organizations

The Blue Picardy Spaniel earned its status as a separate breed over time. France officially recognized it in 1938, setting it apart from the original Picardy Spaniel.

The Picard Spaniel and Blue Picardy Spaniel Club started in 1921. The two breed clubs joined forces on July 28, 1937. They grew bigger on May 21, 1980, when the Pont-Audemer Club came aboard to create the “Club des Epagneuls Picards, Bleus de Picardie & Pont Audemer”. The French club now goes by CEPPA, short for “Club de l’Épagneul Picards et le Pont Audemer”.

Other countries took longer to recognize the breed. The Canadian Kennel Club gave its approval in 1995, after Ronald Meunier brought the first Blue Picardy Spaniels to Canada around 1987. The United Kennel Club followed suit on January 1, 1996.

The breed now has recognition from big international dog organizations. These include the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the North American Kennel Club, and the American Rare Breed Association. You won’t find many of these dogs outside France and parts of French-speaking Canada, though.

Physical Characteristics and Appearance

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Physical Characteristics and Appearance

The Blue Picardy Spaniel stands out among hunting breeds with its elegant build and distinctive coat. This medium-sized sporting dog commands attention everywhere.

Size and weight range

The Blue Picardy Spaniel fits the medium to medium-large size category. Males grow taller than females, with these measurements:

• Males: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) at the withers with a weight of 50-55 pounds (20-25 kg)
• Females: 21-23 inches (54-59 cm) at the withers with a weight of 45-50 pounds (18-23 kg)

These proportions make the breed robust enough for hunting yet perfect as a family companion. The Blue Picardy’s muscled legs enhance its athletic abilities. Its moderate chest extends to elbow level and provides the lung capacity needed for extended hunting sessions.

Coat type and color

The Blue Picardy Spaniel’s coat serves as its signature feature. This medium-length coat grows thick and ranges from flat to slightly wavy. Rich feathering adorns several areas:

• Ears (covered in silky hair)
• Legs
• Underside
• Tail

The breed’s coloration distinguishes it from the original Picardy Spaniel. Its coat showcases a distinctive blue-gray roan pattern with black patches scattered throughout. Gray and black speckles blend to create a beautiful bluish tint.

Blue Picardy puppies start life mostly white-gray. Their darker colors emerge gradually as they grow older. This color development adds to the breed’s charm.

Unique features of the breed

The Blue Picardy Spaniel’s distinctive traits extend beyond its remarkable coat. An oval skull pairs with a long, broad muzzle. The breed’s ears stand out – thick and silky-haired, they stretch to reach the muzzle’s tip.

The Blue Picardy’s eyes captivate observers. Large and dark, they reflect the dog’s gentle nature with a calm expression. This peaceful gaze adds to the breed’s appeal.

The tail enhances the dog’s elegant profile. It stays straight and doesn’t extend past the hock. Feathering on the tail completes the breed’s graceful appearance.

The Blue Picardy Spaniel embodies athletic grace. Balanced proportions create an elegant silhouette. Its muscular frame supports hunting activities without appearing heavy.

The blend of bluish-gray coat, expressive dark eyes, and elegant proportions gives this breed what enthusiasts call a “striking, almost mystical look”. These physical characteristics make the Blue Picardy Spaniel both beautiful and functional as a versatile hunting companion.

Temperament and Behavior

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Temperament and Behavior

Blue Picardy Spaniels excel at balancing their working capabilities with a family-friendly nature. These remarkable dogs blend hunting skills and gentle companionship. They shine both in the field and at home.

General personality traits

Blue Picardy Spaniels have a calm, steady, and smart temperament. They’re naturally quiet dogs but will alert their owners about approaching strangers. The breed’s docile nature pairs with amazing stamina. This creates a balanced personality that fits both work and family settings.

Blue Picardy Spaniels show these notable traits:

• Obedient and responsive: They love pleasing their owners and learn commands quickly
• Loyal and affectionate: They build deep connections with their human family
• Intelligent and trainable: Their quick minds and eagerness make training straightforward
• Brave yet even-tempered: They stay composed while showing courage when needed

Here’s something to remember: these typically calm dogs need plenty of daily exercise to channel their energy. Without enough physical activity and mental challenges, they might become hyperactive or destructive. These behaviors signal boredom rather than inherent issues.

The breed adapts well to different living environments if they get enough attention and exercise. Their need for human companionship means they shouldn’t spend too much time alone.

Interaction with children and families

Yes, it is true that Blue Picardy Spaniels make excellent family companions. They’re great with kids and show a gentle, loving nature that suits families with children of any age. Their patient, well-behaved nature helps them handle children’s unpredictable actions.

These dogs’ value as family pets comes from their balanced personality. They love playtime but stay gentle and affectionate – perfect traits for family life. Their loyalty and dedication to family members make them ideal household pets.

These dogs bring another benefit to families: they stay docile and calm, yet protect their family when needed. This protective instinct never turns aggressive toward family members, making them reliable companions for homes with children.

Behavior with other pets

Blue Picardy Spaniels fit perfectly in multi-pet households. They get along great with other dogs and their social nature creates harmony in homes with multiple pets.

Their hunting background doesn’t stop them from living peacefully with other household pets. These dogs befriend pets of all types, adding to their reputation as adaptable and social companions.

Notwithstanding that, like all dogs, proper introductions and supervision matter when meeting new pets. Their friendly nature toward other animals makes this process smoother than breeds with stronger territorial instincts.

The breed adapts to various household setups. They adjust well to single-pet homes or houses full of animals, provided they get proper socialization. This flexibility and even temperament makes them versatile companions that suit different family situations.

Lifespan and Health Overview

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Lifespan and Health Overview

The health profile and longevity of the Blue Picardy Spaniel helps future owners prepare to welcome this elegant breed into their homes. These dogs thrive with proper care, but you should know about their potential health concerns.

Average lifespan of the breed

Blue Picardy Spaniels have a healthy lifespan that shows their resilient constitution. Multiple sources indicate these dogs live between 12 to 14 years. Some research points to a slightly shorter range of 10-12 years, while other sources suggest approximately 9 to 13 years.

Keep in mind that good care, nutrition, and regular vet visits help your dog live longer. Blue Picardies from quality breeding lines often reach their maximum life expectancy with appropriate care throughout their lives.

The breed’s long life expectancy is evidence of its hardy nature. You can expect over a decade of companionship with your Blue Picardy Spaniel if you provide proper care.

Common health issues

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is generally healthy, but future and current owners should know about several health concerns:

• Ear infections – The biggest problem reported in this breed[153]. The dog’s long, pendulous ears can trap moisture and debris that leads to bacterial and yeast growth.
• Hip dysplasia – Quality breeders screen their dogs for this developmental condition. This genetic issue happens when the hip joint develops incorrectly and can cause pain and mobility problems.
• Ectropion – This eye condition makes the lower eyelid droop and exposes part of the eye[172]. The condition affects appearance and increases the risk of eye infections.
• Cancer – Like many medium to large breeds, Blue Picardies face higher cancer risks as they age.

Breed experts note that entropion (inward-turning eyelids) sometimes appears in certain bloodlines. Different breeding lines show varying tendencies toward these conditions, so research your puppy’s lineage before purchase.

Preventive care and vet checkups

Your Blue Picardy Spaniel needs a proactive approach to preventive care. Regular vet checkups are the life-blood of good health management.

A detailed health certification gives peace of mind before purchasing a puppy. Quality breeders run health screenings for common issues before selling their dogs[172]. Look for breeders who provide:

• Hip dysplasia evaluations (OFA or PennHIP certification)
• Eye examinations by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists

Your responsibility for preventive care starts the moment your Blue Picardy Spaniel comes home. Clean ears regularly since these dogs often get ear infections. Keep the ears dry and clean, especially after swimming or bathing.

Weight management plays a vital role in preventive care. A healthy weight helps promote your Blue Picardy Spaniel’s long-term health. Extra weight increases health risks, including joint problems that can make hip dysplasia worse.

Adult dogs need yearly vet checkups at minimum, while puppies and senior dogs should visit more often. These checkups help catch potential health issues early.

Grooming and Maintenance Needs

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Grooming and Maintenance Needs

Blue Picardy Spaniels need regular grooming to look their best. These elegant hunting dogs have a distinctive blue-gray coat that requires consistent care and attention.

Brushing and coat care

The beautiful moderate-length coat of a Blue Picardy Spaniel needs regular upkeep. You should brush your dog weekly to keep their coat soft and prevent matting. Their coat naturally stays clean and doesn’t smell much.

You’ll need these tools to care for your dog’s coat:

• A good pin brush that works well with their coat type
• A regular comb to remove tangles
• De-shedding tools you’ll use during shedding seasons

Your spaniel will need daily brushing during spring and fall when they shed the most. Take time to check for ticks, burrs, and debris while brushing, especially after they’ve been running through fields or woods.

Since these dogs were bred to hunt, you should trim the fur around their paws and between toes. This prevents painful matting after outdoor adventures.

Ear cleaning and nail trimming

Blue Picardy Spaniels have long, drooping ears that need extra care to prevent infections. Ear problems are one of the biggest concerns for this breed, so regular cleaning is vital.

Their L-shaped ear canals can trap moisture and debris, which leads to irritation and infections. Vets suggest cleaning floppy ears like these every 15 to 30 days.

Here’s how to clean their ears properly:

1. Use a vet-approved ear cleaning solution
2. Fill the ear canal gently with the solution
3. Massage the ear base for about 30 seconds
4. Let your dog shake their head
5. Clean the outer ear with cotton ball or gauze – never push inside the canal

Stop cleaning immediately and call your vet if your dog shows any pain during the process.

Nail care is another vital part of regular maintenance. Clip their toenails before they start cracking or clicking on floors. Teaching your dog to stay calm while you handle their paws makes nail trimming much easier.

Bathing frequency and tools needed

Most Blue Picardy Spaniels need a monthly bath to stay clean and healthy. Brush them really well before bathing to remove loose hair and debris.

Your dog’s activity level and environment will determine how often they need baths. These water-loving dogs might need more frequent baths if they swim or play in mud regularly. Experts suggest bathing them as little as possible to protect their natural oils and prevent dry skin.

Dental care is just as important as bathing. Your dog needs life-long dental care including home brushing and professional cleanings. Regular brushing with dog-specific products helps keep their teeth and gums healthy.

A well-groomed Blue Picardy Spaniel makes a happier, healthier companion. Good grooming improves both their appearance and overall wellbeing.

Training and Exercise Requirements

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Training a Blue Picardy Spaniel brings both rewards and challenges. These hunting companions need proper guidance to become well-mannered family members while keeping their natural abilities intact.

Trainability and intelligence

Blue Picardy Spaniels combine remarkable intelligence with an eager-to-please attitude that makes them highly trainable compared to many other breeds. Their obedient and adaptable nature helps first-time dog owners succeed in simple training. These dogs learn naturally and respond quickly when given consistent instruction.

Their sensitivity creates advantages and drawbacks during training. Their intelligence helps them learn concepts quickly, yet this same sensitivity demands a thoughtful approach. Blue Picardies take longer to mature than some breeds, and rushing their training could harm their development.

Recommended training methods

Positive reinforcement forms the foundations of successful Blue Picardy Spaniel training. These dogs show exceptional response to reward-based techniques that use their food motivation. Treats, praise, and play serve as powerful incentives that tap into their desire to please their handlers.

In stark comparison to this, harsh methods prove counterproductive with this breed. High-pressure training creates anxiety and resistance instead of cooperation. Success comes from:

• Early socialization with different people, places and situations
• Simple obedience training beginning in puppyhood
• Interactive training incorporating scent-based tasks
• Light agility work that involves their natural athleticism

Gentle, consistent guidance produces the best results. The breed’s strong bond with owners makes owner-led training especially effective – these dogs truly want to work with their people.

Daily exercise needs and activities

Blue Picardy Spaniels need substantial daily activity to stay physically and mentally healthy. These athletic dogs require 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Insufficient stimulation can lead to restlessness or destructive behaviors from boredom rather than inherent behavioral issues.

These versatile dogs excel at many activities:

• Long walks, hikes, and runs
• Swimming (they have natural water abilities)
• Retrieving games and field activities
• Dog sports including hunting, tracking, agility, and obedience

Mental enrichment matters as much as physical exercise. Interactive training drills, nose work, and problem-solving activities keep their intelligent minds stimulated. Well-exercised Blue Picardies become calm indoor companions – their high energy turns into relaxed companionship once properly channeled.

Urban dwellers can keep this breed in apartments if they provide adequate daily activity. Houses with fenced yards create ideal environments where these dogs can explore safely between structured exercise sessions.

Blue Picardy Spaniel Price and Availability in India

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Blue Picardy Spaniel Price and Availability in India

Getting your hands on a Blue Picardy Spaniel in India isn’t easy. Dog lovers face several hurdles when they want to bring this rare breed home.

Typical price range in India

A purebred Blue Picardy Spaniel in India will set you back INR 75,942.41 to INR 101,256.54. The price changes based on several things:

• The dog’s pedigree quality and papers
• The dog’s age, with puppies usually costing more
• Whether the dog comes from India or abroad

The purchase price isn’t everything. New owners should plan for yearly vet costs between INR 63,285.34 to 2,000 for basic care. Many first-time owners don’t realize how these ongoing expenses add up.

Why the breed is rare

You won’t find many Blue Picardy Spaniels in India. These dogs started out as hunting companions in northern France. The breed’s medium to medium-large size makes it perfect for specific hunting conditions that aren’t common in India.

The breed faces recognition challenges too. The American Kennel Club hasn’t recognized the Picardy or Blue Picardy Spaniel yet. However, both the Federation Cynologique Internationale and Canadian Kennel Club have given their stamp of approval. This limited recognition means Indian breeding programs rarely include these dogs.

The breed’s special role as both hunter and family pet creates a small market. Indian breeders haven’t shown much interest in filling this niche.

Tips for finding a reputable breeder

The scarcity of Blue Picardy Spaniels means you should:

1. Look for breeders who know sporting or hunting breeds really well
2. Ask for complete health records and genetic test results
3. Check both parents’ photos and videos to confirm breed authenticity
4. Get ready to wait since litters don’t come often
5. Think about getting your dog from overseas breeders if needed

Watch out for prices that seem too good to be true. Be skeptical if someone claims they always have puppies available – this often points to poor breeding practices or fake breeds.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Blue Picardy Spaniel

Pros and Cons of Owning a Blue Picardy Spaniel

You should think over both the strengths and limitations before bringing a Blue Picardy Spaniel into your home. These elegant French hunting dogs have some amazing qualities that many people love, but they aren’t the right fit for every home.

Advantages of the breed

The Blue Picardy Spaniel really shines in several ways:

• Versatile hunting companion who excels at tracking and retrieving
• Calm and affectionate family member who helps create a peaceful home
• Highly trainable personality that makes them quick learners and easy partners
• Friendly with children and other pets which makes them great family dogs
• Low aggression levels and they stay quiet indoors
• Beautiful and unique coat that adds to their charm

Challenges to consider

Future owners should know about these demanding traits:

• Regular exercise requirements – they just need vigorous activity daily
• Mental stimulation essential – they might get bored or destructive without it
• Attentive grooming needed, especially when you have their ears to protect from infections
• Strong scent-following instinct that could make them wander if not trained
• Not suited for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments
• Limited availability outside France makes finding one tough

Is it the right dog for you?

The Blue Picardy Spaniel runs on:

• An active lifestyle with plenty of outdoor adventures
• Ample space – a large fenced yard works best
• Time for consistent training and socializing
• Patient grooming attention to their coat and ears

Active families who love outdoor activities and can spend time on training will find an exceptional companion in this breed. City dwellers or people with packed schedules might find it nowhere near manageable to meet their needs.

Conclusion

Blue Picardy Spaniels are remarkable dogs that blend an elegant look with practical hunting skills. Their blue-gray coat makes them stand out, and their gentle nature makes them perfect family companions. Anyone thinking about getting this breed should weigh their amazing qualities against their specific needs.

These dogs do best in active homes where they get plenty of exercise – about 60-90 minutes each day. All the same, they’re quite calm indoors once they’ve had their activity. The breed’s intelligence and eagerness to please makes training straightforward, especially if you use positive reinforcement to guide them.

These spaniels typically live 12-14 years with good care. Owners need to watch for ear infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems through regular vet visits. The breed’s grooming isn’t too demanding – you just need weekly brushing and extra care for their droopy ears.

Getting a Blue Picardy Spaniel in India can be tough since they’re rarely found outside France and parts of Canada. So anyone set on owning this breed should be ready to spend between ₹75,000-₹101,000 and possibly wait a while.

Blue Picardy Spaniels are perfect matches for:

• Families who love outdoor activities
• Hunters looking for versatile working partners
• Homes with kids and other pets
• People who want a smart, trainable dog
• Anyone seeking a calm yet athletic companion

The breed might not suit apartment living, less active people, or those who can’t provide regular exercise and mental stimulation. These elegant French dogs reward their owners with steadfast dedication, gentle affection, and their unique heritage’s distinctive beauty.

New dog owners should know what they’re getting into – daily exercise, regular grooming, and proper training. But those who meet these needs will find an exceptional four-legged friend in the Blue Picardy Spaniel.

Key Takeaways

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a rare French hunting breed that combines elegant beauty with gentle family companionship, requiring dedicated care and active ownership.

• Distinctive Heritage: Developed in early 20th century France from English Setter and Picardy Spaniel crosses, creating their signature blue-gray ticked coat pattern.

• Active Lifestyle Essential: Requires 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise; without proper activity, these intelligent dogs may develop destructive behaviors from boredom.

• Excellent Family Dogs: Gentle, calm temperament makes them ideal with children and other pets, while their trainable nature responds well to positive reinforcement methods.

• Health & Grooming Needs: Generally healthy with 12-14 year lifespan, but requires weekly brushing and special ear care to prevent infections due to their pendulous ears.

• Rare & Expensive in India: Costs ₹75,000-₹101,000 with limited availability, making them challenging to find outside their native France and requiring patience to locate reputable breeders.

This breed thrives with active families who can provide consistent exercise, training, and grooming attention, but may not suit apartment living or sedentary lifestyles.

FAQs

Q1. What is the typical temperament of a Blue Picardy Spaniel? Blue Picardy Spaniels are known for their gentle, calm, and affectionate nature. They are docile, good with children and other pets, and bond closely with their family. Their laid-back attitude makes them relatively easy to train, though they require consistent exercise to prevent boredom.

Q2. How much exercise does a Blue Picardy Spaniel need daily? Blue Picardy Spaniels are active dogs that require 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. This can include activities like long walks, runs, swimming, or retrieving games. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they may develop destructive behaviors.

Q3. Are Blue Picardy Spaniels good family dogs? Yes, Blue Picardy Spaniels make excellent family dogs. They are gentle with children, get along well with other pets, and have a calm indoor demeanor. Their friendly and affectionate nature, combined with their intelligence and trainability, makes them ideal companions for active families.

Q4. What are the grooming needs of a Blue Picardy Spaniel? Blue Picardy Spaniels require regular grooming. They need weekly brushing to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Special attention should be given to their ears, which are prone to infections due to their pendulous nature. Occasional baths, nail trims, and dental care are also necessary for their overall health.

Q5. How rare are Blue Picardy Spaniels and what is their typical price range in India? Blue Picardy Spaniels are quite rare, especially outside of France and parts of Canada. In India, they are particularly uncommon and can be challenging to find. The typical price range for a Blue Picardy Spaniel in India is between ₹75,000 to ₹101,000, though availability may be limited and wait times could be long.