Petit Bleu de Gascogne

Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a scent hound type of dog. It is a descendant of a large hunting breed type of dog that had originated in France. They are very good hunters as long they hunt in packs. They were used to hunt small game and that is how they got their name to be “Petit”. They have a superior nose just like all scent hounds do, and are very capable detecting even the minute of the scents in the air or on the ground. They are a determined breed and very capable breed.

Smaller size Grand Bleu de Gascognes were chosen to hunt smaller game back in the days, while their larger counterparts were used to hunt Boars and bears and even Wolves in some cases, that how they got their name “Grand” too. The Petit Bleu de Gascognes are said to be direct descendents of these mighty hunters. The Petits are medium to large sized dogs, and they aren’t considered to be a small dog by anyone. They stand tall at around 20.5 to 23 inches (52 to 58 cm), while the female counterparts of the Petit Bleu de Gascognes are a little smaller. They weigh in at around 18 to 22 kg (40 to 48 pounds).

Their coat does resemble that of a Grand Bleu de Gascogne. It has more of a matte, slate blue finish too. They have these marking above each eye that makes them look as if they have four eyes. It is called the 'Quatreoeuillé' effect. Any absence of expected features in these dogs would get them branded as faulty. And it is highly advisable by the FCI to not breed such type of dogs as it will only result in the later generations of the dogs to be full of faults and health problems too. If the Petit Bleu de Gascognes are said to be fearful or too aggressive, that is also considered as a fault in the breed.

The Petit Bleu de Gascognes are easy to handle and are calm as compared to other scenthounds. They always hunt in packs, and are said to be used as hunting dogs for small game for centuries now. These are natural hunters, and that’s the reason they don’t do well as house pets. They’ll need a master who is confident and calm, and yet firm enough in giving orders.

They also like their daily amount of physical and mental exercises everyday. The Petit Bleu de Gascognes tend to lose their attention most of the times as they would be busy processing any distinctive or important scent in the air. This might also lead them to explore the scent on their own, this is the reason they should be on leash if they are not in a pack. They even have excellent stamina, so if you are considering taking them on a jog, first be sure that you are ready for that long jog. They are said to be healthy as a breed and they do not suffer from any health issues and diseases.