Braque Français
The Braque Français is considered one of the oldest pointing breeds in Europe — documented in French hunting literature of the 15th century and believed to be an ancestor of many modern pointing breeds including the Vizsla, Weimaraner, and German Shorthaired Pointer.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
France
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
17–32 kg (38–70 lbs)
Height
47–69 cm (18–27 in)
Exercise
40 to 60 min/day
Diet
Omnivore — high-quality food for an active pointing breed.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Braque Français is considered one of the oldest pointing breeds in Europe — documented in French hunting literature of the 15th century and believed to be an ancestor of many modern pointing breeds including the Vizsla, Weimaraner, and German Shorthaired Pointer. Two size varieties exist: the larger de Grande Taille (similar in size to a Pointer) and the smaller de Petite Taille (Pyrenean type, more compact). The breed is the foundation from which most European continental pointing breeds descend. It is gentle, affectionate, and one of the most family-friendly pointing breeds.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A large (Grande Taille) or medium (Petite Taille) pointing dog with a short, dense, chestnut-and-white coat. Well-proportioned, athletic, and workmanlike. The head has a rounded skull with pendant ears and a kind expression.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
Brushing
1x-Weekly
Bathing
Every-6-8-Weeks
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Gentle, affectionate, and calm — the Braque Français has one of the most balanced temperaments of any pointing breed. Excellent with families. Adaptable and easy to live with.
Personality Scores
Adaptability
3/5Attention Need
3/5Friendliness
4/5Playfulness
4/5Protectiveness
1/5Living Profile
Ideal Space
House-Small-Garden
Daily Exercise
40 to 60 min/day
Ideal Weather
0°C to 28°C
Cognitive Benchmarks
Adaptability
30%
Attention
30%
Playfulness
40%
Communication Style
Stress Signals
restlessness, mouthing, clinginess
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1.5–2 hours vigorous exercise daily. Low grooming. Ear cleaning weekly. Ideal for active families who hunt or pursue field sports.
Nutrition Notes
Healthy French pointer. Two types: Gascogne and Pyrenean. Joint supplements.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Senior Care
Hip dysplasia. Ear infections. Healthy breed. 12-14 years.
Wellbeing Activities
Nutrition & Sustenance
Daily Calories (Adult)
1100 kcal
Daily Calories (Young)
800 kcal
Recommended Foods
Foods to Avoid
Health Overview
Generally healthy. Hip dysplasia. Progressive retinal atrophy. One of the longer-lived pointing breeds when well cared for.
Common Conditions
Price Estimates
Pricing Guide
Average estimates as of 2025
Braque Français. India: unavailable.
Purchase Price
$1,200 to $2,500
Adoption Fee
$100 to $400
Data from 2025
Fun Facts
The Braque Français is believed to be the ancestral pointing breed from which most modern European continental pointers descend — the Vizsla, German Shorthaired Pointer, Weimaraner, and many others can trace their ancestry to the French Braque type that spread across Europe from the 15th century onward.
