25 French Dog Breeds

Some of the most adored dog breeds in the world, renowned for their charm, intelligence, and distinctive qualities, originate in France. French breeds have a long and illustrious history, ranging from active hunting dogs to sophisticated companions.

There’s a French breed out there for every type of dog lover, be it a playful family pet, an expert working dog, or a devoted guardian. Every breed is unique due to its unique personality and characteristics.

We will look at 25 of the most well-liked French dog breeds in this article. Prepare to see the unique characteristics that set these dogs apart—you might even meet your new best friend!

Small breeds

These animals range in weight from 2 to 9 kg.

1. Papillon

Traits: gregarious, astute, and amiable.

Papillon means "butterfly" in French. The ear shape, which resembles wings, gave rise to this name. Papillons rank among the top ten smartest dogs in the world, right up there with Labradors and Rottweilers. They enjoy picking up new skills and are simple to train. Papillons make loving family pets and can serve as security dogs.

2. French Bulldog

Attributes: compliant, watchful, and lighthearted.

French bulldogs astonish with their small bull’s body and bat ears. These dogs only need minimal maintenance. They easily adjust to new living situations and make friends with both grownups and small children. They could serve as watchdogs. It should be noted that French bulldogs are unable to swim and become very hot easily.

3. Lauchen (small lion dog)

Qualities: amiable, upbeat, and social.

"Little lion dog," a happy and vivacious pet with an enormous heart of love. Its level of activity is moderate; it enjoys both running and relaxing.

4. Toy poodle

Qualities: intelligent, assured, upbeat.

It wouldn’t be the same without the endearing toy poodle—cute, vivacious, and remarkably courageous. This is a dog whose training and upbringing are a true pleasure, and a devoted friend for both adults and children. Poodles are intelligent animals, though, and they won’t submit to total human dominance.

Medium breeds

The most varied dogs in the 10–22 kg weight range can be found in this category.

5. Pyrenean Shepherd

Qualities: obedient, vigilant, and enthusiastic.

Among the traditional herding breeds are the Pyrenean Shepherds. They are not only peaceful friends but also deft, quick shepherds. Remember that these are energetic dogs who require a daily release of their energy. For novices, raising or training them is difficult.

6. Standard Poodle

Qualities: proud, gregarious, and intelligent.

After Border Collies, Standard Poodles are the second smartest breed in the world. These creatures are elegant, noble, and self-assured; they make vivid exhibit decorations. In addition to being skilled swimmers, poodles’ coats shield their internal organs from the elements.

7. Basset Griffon Vendéen

Features: joyous, joyous, vigilant.

The happiest and busiest of all the French canines is probably the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. This is a superior hunter, largely because the breed was bred to chase rabbits. The dog’s gregarious nature will astound you; it has a wonderful knack for getting along with all local dogs and people.

8. Griffin Fauve de Bretagne

Characteristics: cheerful, determined, and intelligent.

This breed was developed for specific game tracking. Its delegates can rapidly adjust to any environment or climate. In addition to being serious hunters, these happy, affectionate family dogs also strive to win over their owners.

9. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen)

Features: gregarious, self-reliant, upbeat.

GBGV is a devoted scent specialist and a resilient working dog. There is no task too difficult for the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, as they can spend hours following a trail. Such a companion is always dependable; in addition to being an excellent family dog, it is an active participant in the search and rescue mission.

10. Brittany Espanyol

Features: lovely, lighthearted, and upbeat.

From a playful pet, he develops into a tireless and fervent hunter very quickly. Despite his boundless energy, the Brittany Espanyol remains a submissive canine companion. But only under one requirement: regular mental and physical exercise. This breed is appropriate for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.

11. French Pyrenean Braque

Qualities: amiable, dependable, intelligent.

Dogs bred especially for mountain hunting are known as Braques Francais Pyreneans. It is, nevertheless, also a docile, loving, and gregarious pet. Because it wants to please its owner, the animal is simple to train. The dog swims well and adores the water.

12. Braque de Bourbon (Braque du Bourbonnais)

Qualities: serene, amiable, and tender.

The Braque du Bourbonnais strikes a balance between a family companion and a hunting dog. He is obedient, affectionate, and simple to train. He is a favorite. This hunter with a keen sense of smell is ideal for those who enjoy the great outdoors and an active lifestyle. He occasionally wants to show off his skills.

13. Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Qualities: brave, gregarious, intelligent.

The hunting breed known as Basset Fauve de Bretagne is adaptable and has the ability to track small game, including rabbits, over any difficult terrain. These are lovely family companions that require continuous communication. but I still enjoy being obstinate occasionally.

14. Barbet Dog

Positive traits: upbeat, loving, and amiable.

This fluffy good-natured fellow creates a deceptive impression of a clumsy oaf – the dog is able to quickly track down birds and small game. To keep such a pet calm, healthy and happy, do not forget about the proper physical activity for your four-legged friend. Barbet is certainly one of the best companion dogs.

Breed Description
French Bulldog A small, muscular dog with a short snout and bat-like ears, known for its playful and affectionate nature.
Basset Hound A scent hound with long ears and a relaxed personality, famous for its excellent tracking ability.
Briard A large, shaggy herding dog known for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts.
Beauceron A powerful and intelligent herding dog, often used for guarding and police work in France.
Great Pyrenees A large, majestic dog bred for guarding livestock, known for its calm and patient demeanor.
Dogue de Bordeaux A muscular, strong breed with a powerful jaw, often used as a guard dog due to its protective nature.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen A small, energetic hound with a rough coat, bred for hunting small game.
Pyrenean Mastiff A giant, gentle dog bred for guarding flocks in the Pyrenees mountains.
French Spaniel A medium-sized hunting dog known for its excellent retrieving skills and friendly nature.
Gascony Blue A large, powerful hunting dog with a striking blue coat, used for tracking and hunting in packs.
Ariege Pointer A skilled hunting dog known for its endurance and ability to point game.
Pyrenean Shepherd A small, agile herding dog known for its intelligence and high energy levels.
Grand Bleu de Gascogne A large, noble-looking hound with excellent scenting abilities, often used in hunting.
Brittany Spaniel A versatile hunting dog, known for its friendly and energetic nature, popular with bird hunters.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne A small, sturdy scent hound known for its determination and hunting skills.
Porcelaine A sleek, elegant hunting dog with a white, porcelain-like coat.
Saint Bernard A large, friendly dog originally bred for rescue work in the Alps, known for its gentle and caring nature.
Picardy Spaniel A medium-sized, rugged hunting dog, known for its versatility and adaptability in the field.
Chien Français Blanc et Noir A large, powerful hunting dog used in packs for tracking and hunting game.
Norman Artesian Basset A small, sturdy hound with a calm temperament, used for hunting small game.
Artois Hound A medium-sized hunting dog with a strong sense of smell, used for tracking game.
Poitevin A tall, elegant hunting dog known for its speed and stamina, often used in pack hunts.
Barbet A curly-coated water dog, known for its excellent swimming and retrieving abilities.
Berger Picard A scruffy, hardworking herding dog, known for its intelligence and adaptability.
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne A medium-sized scent hound known for its bravery and determination in the field.

Breeds of French dogs are renowned for their distinct charm, fidelity, and adaptability. There is a French breed for everyone, whether you are looking for a working dog, a companion, or a show dog.

Every breed, from the elegant French Bulldog to the energetic Brittany, has unique qualities that set them apart. Their appeal is increased by the way their histories and personalities capture the essence of France’s rich culture and traditions.

It’s crucial to take the dog’s temperament and needs into account in addition to their appearance when selecting one. There’s bound to be a French breed that’s ideal for your home and way of life because they come in all different sizes and shapes.

French dog breeds—from the graceful and loving Papillon to the robust and industrious Great Pyrenees—are renowned for their distinctive qualities. This article will examine 25 French breeds, stressing their characteristics, background, and qualities that make them ideal companions. French breeds have something to offer everyone, whether you’re searching for a playful family pet or a devoted guard dog.

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Maxim Kovalev

Veterinarian with many years of experience. Main interest is the prevention and treatment of diseases in cats and dogs. I constantly share proven tips for caring for the health of pets to help avoid common problems and maintain their excellent health.

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