Woof!
A Billy is a large hunting dog originating from Central western France in the 19th century. Billys are a combination of Montemboeuf, Ceris and Larye breeds which are now extinct. Foxblood has been introduced to the Billy to keep bloodlines fresh.
In 5 Words
- Intelligent
- Trainable
- Trusting
- Hunter
- Loyal
SnapShot
Size:
Males – 58 to 68 cm (23 to 27 inches)
Females – 58 to 68 cm (23 to 27 inches)
Weight:
Males – 24 to 32 kg (52 to 70 lb)
Females – 24 to 32 kg (52 to 70 lb)
Origin: France
Life Span: 12 to 15 Years
Colour: Any Color
Litter Size: 3 to 8 puppies
Characteristics
Learn About the Billy
The Billy was originated from Central western France in nineteenth century. This dog is a combination of Large, Montemboeuf and Ceris breeds which are now inactive. For the Billy the foxblood has been introduced to keep bloodlines fresh. At first the Billy’s were bred by Monsieur Gaston Hublot du Rivault in Poitou at the Chateau de Billy. In 1886 the breed standard was established.
Billys are large, tall and have a lot of stamina at the time of working. They can be seen in shades of white, light tan, white with markings, light orange and lemon. Their skin is thin, usually white with thin, short, stiff and glossy coat. The dark eyes are ringed with black or brown. The well-developed nose has a square muzzle, while the ears are medium sized and relatively high. Their back is wide and slightly arched. They have a long, slightly feathered tail. Although they are well-built and strong, they are light in weight.
Billys can come in pure and off-white, possibly with orange or with lemon spots on the head and body; their coat is short and smooth. They can weigh between 52-70lbs and they stand around 60-70cm at the shoulder for males and 58-62cm for females. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard suggests the dog should gallop easily in its movement.
As a pet, the Billy is obedient to his master but is reportedly contentious with pack mates. He is good with children, brave and very sociable.
Billys need a lot of protection from cold weather, since their own coat offers them very little shield from the chill. They should not be exposed to severe cold or they can contract bronchitis.
The Billy is not suitable for apartment or city life and best in outdoor. It needs a lot of exercise, like most large hounds they are extremely fast and difficult off the lead. Billy’s dog are courageous and very intelligent and have been known to compete in obedience with other dogs. Billy‘s are quarrelsome or argumentative with pack, melodious voice. They need little grooming and very easy to train. They are compatible with children and family.
