The Picardy Spaniel is a breed of dog developed in France for use as a gundog. It is related to the Blue Picardy Spaniel, and still has many similarities, but the Picardy Spaniel is the older of the two breeds. It is thought to be one of the two oldest continental spaniel breeds and was favoured by the French nobility, remaining popular for hunting after the French Revolution due to its weather resistant coat that enabled it to hunt in a variety of conditions and terrain. However its popularity waned following the influx of English hunting breeds in the early 20th century. Slightly smaller than an English Setter but larger than most of its spaniel cousins, it has no major health issues although as with many breeds with pendulous ears, it can be prone to ear infections.
Originally from the Picardy region in northern France, adapted to varied terrains and climates for hunting.
The Picardy Spaniel is one of the oldest continental spaniel breeds, originally developed in France. It was favored by French nobility and is well-suited for hunting due to its weather-resistant coat. Although its popularity declined with the arrival of English hunting breeds in the 20th century, it remains a versatile gundog.
A Picardy Spaniel at a dog show in Poland.
A Picardy Spaniel female.
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5