The docile Braque d’Auvergne temperament makes this dog a beloved hunting companion and family pet.
The Braque d’Auvergne, also known as the Auvergne Pointer, is a beautiful gundog from the southern region of France.
The word “Braque” translates to “pointer.” So the name Braque d’Auvergne literally means “the pointer of Auvergne.”
The breed is popular in Europe but is still quite rare in the United States and Canada.
If you are thinking about adding one to your family, this article will provide you with some preliminary information about common Braque d’Auvergne traits.
Braque d’Auvergne Temperament Traits
Below you will find common components of the Braque d’Auvergne temperament.
However, keep in mind that there will always be some variation between individuals within a particular breed.
Always keep this in mind as you start to research classic Braque d’Auvergne behaviors.
An Outstanding Hunting Dog
The devoted Braque d’Auvergne temperament makes this breed an unparalleled hunting companion.
The Braque d’Auvergne is an ideal bird dog for grouse, pheasant or woodcock.
These dogs have an excellent sense of smell and they have the stamina to hunt for hours on end. They can handle rough terrain and they can even swim!
As their name implies, they “point” out game by standing with one paw up and their tail straight back when they find game. They will also retrieve the quarry after it is shot.
The Braque d’Auvergne hunting style is a little different than other dogs.
- They like to stay close to their owners and work as a team with the hunter.
- They will rarely get more than 75 yards away.
- And they do not like to go off and work on their own.
Some hunters do not like this trait, but Braque owners enjoy the close bond with their dog.
A Great Family Pet
The Braque d’Auvergne makes an excellent hunting dog and a wonderful family dog.
These dogs enjoy being with their people. They do not like being left outside or in a kennel after a day of hunting.
They like to come into the home and curl up by the fireplace.
Braques generally do well with children, especially if they are introduced to kids in a positive way.
It is important to supervise children when they are interacting with dogs of any breed. Make sure the children treat the dog with respect and they never tease the dog or do something painful (like sit on the dog or pull its tail).
Auvergne Pointers need a lot of attention. Make sure you have enough time to devote to this loyal breed.
If you do not spend enough time with your Braque d’Auvergne, he may become bored and lonely. He might even develop the symptoms of separation anxiety.
If you acquire one of these dogs, make sure you have a lifestyle that can accommodate a dog that wants to be with you for most of the day.
Tolerant with Other Dogs
Many people who own a Braque d’Auvergne actually own more than one.
These dogs seem to get along well with other dogs, especially when they are socialized with other dogs from a young age.
If you can find a puppy socialization class in your area, try to sign up for one when your puppy is still young. Puppy kindergarten classes are a great way for your pup to learn valuable canine social skills.
Always supervise your Braque when he interacts with other pets, and separate him into a crate or another room when you must leave him unattended.
Highly Trainable
The Braque d’Auvergne is a clever dog who loves to use his brain and please his master.
You can train your Braque to do just about anything if you are patient, consistent and positive.
Many Braques and their owners get involved in tracking, nosework, agility, therapy work or search and rescue work.
Since the Braque d’Auvergne is so smart, it is important to keep him mentally challenged.
You can keep him entertained with mental enrichment such as Kongs, busy balls and food puzzles. This is a great way to keep your Braque from getting bored and getting into mischief such as digging, barking or chewing.
Loves to Work
The Braque d’Auvergne has the heart of a working dog. He is happiest when he has a job to do.
If you are not going to use your Braque d’Auvergne as a hunting dog, you must find a constructive outlet for his energy.
This breed requires a lot of physical activity.
Braque d’Auvergne exercise can take the form of hiking, swimming, jogging, biking, or romping with other dogs at the park.
If you work long hours, consider hiring a dog walker or bringing your Braque d’Auvergne to a doggie daycare during the day.
Make sure you are prepared to dedicate at least an hour each day to physical exercise with your Braque.
If this is not feasible for your lifestyle, consider adopting an older Braque d’Auvergne or looking into other breeds.
Braque d’Auvergne History
Understanding a dog’s history can help you understand the Braque d’Auvergne temperament.
The Braque d’Auvergne may be one of the oldest pointing breeds in Europe.
It is believed that the Braque d’Auvergne is the result of crossbreeding between the Gascony Pointer and Pyrenean Braque in the 1700s.
Legend has it that the Knights of Malta were involved in the inception of this breed, although that tale has never been confirmed.
The breed nearly disappeared during WWII, but it was saved after the war by some dedicated owners and breeders.
Although the Braque d’Auvergne is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, it is recognized by kennel clubs in France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
A Guide to Braque d’Auvergne Size and Appearance
The Braque d’Auvergne is a beautiful pointer. Although they are sometimes confused with the German Shorthaired Pointer, they can be differentiated from other pointing breeds by their distinctive ticking and their “bleu” black masks over their eyes.
The average Braque d’Auvergne height is between 21 and 25 inches at the withers.
The typical Braque d’Auvergne weight is between 48 lbs and 62 lbs. Males are taller and heavier than females.
Braque d’Auvergne colors are always black and white. The more common coloration is white with black patches and ticking. The rarer “Charbonne” coloration is black with white markings.
The Braque d’Auvergne breed standard states that any brown markings are a major fault.
The Auvergne Pointer’s tail can either be natural or docked at half its length.
A Guide to Braque d’Auvergne Training
The loyal Braque d’Auvergne temperament makes this dog a joy to train.
Training is a great way to strengthen your bond with your Braque d’Auvergne. It also keeps his mind active and helps him become a well-rounded canine citizen.
Obedience classes are a fun and effective way to train your pet.
If possible, sign up for a beginner’s obedience class with a reputable trainer.
Make sure you find an obedience trainer that uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods.
Never use forceful methods or physical punishment while training this sensitive and trusting breed. You could irreparably damage your relationship with your dog.
Likewise, steer clear of trainers that use painful tools such as pinch collars, shock collars or choke chains.
Keep training sessions short, upbeat and fun.
Your Braque will be eager to learn new things throughout his entire life.
Helpful Dog Training Resource:
For help with training your Braque d’Auvergne dog, you should take a look at The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan. Doggy Dan is an expert Dog Trainer based in New Zealand. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog.
A Guide to Braque d’Auvergne Grooming
Grooming is minimal for this low-maintenance breed.
You can keep the coat looking its best by brushing it about once per week with a soft brush. You can bathe your Braque and trim his toenails as needed.
Is the Braque d’Auvergne Hypoallergenic?
No, this breed is not hypoallergenic. If you are looking for a breed that is hypoallergenic, check out this helpful article.
Staying Healthy: Common Braque d’Auvergne Health Issues
Like all breeds, the Auvergne Pointer is prone to certain genetic health conditions.
If you acquire your dog from a breeder, talk with the breeder about health issues and genetic testing. Never purchase a puppy from a breeder unless the breeder provides proof that the parent dogs have had their hips x-rayed.
Speak with your veterinarian about the following health conditions so that you can be aware of early warning signs:
Like all dogs, your Braque d’Auvergne should visit a licensed veterinarian once per year for an annual physical exam and yearly shots.
It is crucial to keep your Braque d’Auvergne up to date on monthly heartworm prevention, flea prevention, and tick control.
Spaying and neutering is highly recommended and most breeders will require you to sign an agreement promising to have the procedure done at the appropriate age.
With excellent lifelong care, the Braque d’Auvergne lifespan is between 12 and 15 years.
Note: if you agree that your health and your dog's health should be a top priority then get a copy of The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health. Your Braque d’Auvergne friend will love you for it. This guide will help save you money, time and most of all help you keep your dog healthy.
Braque d’Auvergne Rescue and Adoption
If you decide that the Braque d’Auvergne temperament is a good match for your household, there are many benefits of finding a Braque d’Auvergne for adoption.
Below are some of the perks of adopting a rescue dog:
- Adopted dogs often come with some prior training- including housetraining
- They are usually past the destructive puppy chewing stage
- They often require less exercise and attention than puppies
- Their temperaments are more established, so you have a better idea of their personalities
- Adoption fees are less expensive than purchasing a puppy from a breeder
- You get to provide a loving home for a dog in need
Most dogs that are available for adoption have lost their homes through no fault of their own. Below are some of the most common reasons that a Braque d’Auvergne may become available for adoption:
- Owner goes through a financial crisis or health crisis
- Owner moves to a place that does not allow dogs
- Major life changes such as new baby or divorce
- Landlord issues, eviction
If you would like to adopt a Braque, a great place to start is with the national Braque d’Auvergne club. The club members often have a list of dogs looking for new homes.
You can also search online through websites such as Google, Facebook, Petfinder or Adoptapet.
Even though Braques are uncommon in American animal shelters, you should still visit your local shelter or humane society. You can leave your name and number on file in case a Braque d’Auvergne or a similar dog becomes available.
When you adopt through a rescue or an adoption agency, the Braque d’Auvergne cost is usually between $100 and $300 depending on the organization. This adoption fee generally includes spay/neuter, vaccines, microchip, and vetting.
Finding a Braque d’Auvergne for Sale from a Reputable Breeder
Some people choose to purchase a Braque d’Auvergne puppy from a breeder.
Braque d’Auvergne breeders are few and far between in this country, so finding one can be a challenge.
Contact the national breed club for a list of recommended breeders. Make sure the breeder you select is devoted to Braque d’Auvergne temperament and health.
Once you have identified a possible breeder, make an appointment to visit the breeder in person.
Never purchase Braque d’Auvergne puppies over the internet or through a pet store. Responsible breeders will not sell their puppies this way.
Good breeders will welcome your visit because they will be eager to meet you as well. Good breeders want to make sure that their puppies go to excellent, lifelong homes.
Since these puppies are so rare, they are expensive. The Braque d’Auvergne price from a high-quality breeder is usually over $1500 and a large deposit is usually required to be placed on a waiting list.
Conclusion: Why the Braque d’Auvergne?
The Braque d’Auvergne temperament is beloved by just about everyone who owns one.
These dogs are prized for the hunting abilities as well as their qualities that make them superb family pets.
If you are considering one of these beautiful pointers, just make sure you have the time and energy to give them the exercise, training and attention that they crave.
If you lead an active lifestyle, and you are looking for a deep bond with a dog who will want to stay by your side, the Braque d’Auvergne temperament might be a match for you.
Braque lovers will tell you that once you own a Braque d’Auvergne, you probably will never want any other breed of dog.
Allie has worked in the field of animal welfare for over ten years and as a freelance writer the space for many years. She has had many different kinds of dogs (and cats) throughout her life—all adopted. She currently shares her home with a lovable pit bull mix named Huckleberry.