What makes the Braque Saint-Germain Unique?
Although these animals can put on quite a show in the ring, they are more often seen as hunting dogs. After all, Braque Saint-Germains are incredibly skilled at retrieving many different types of birds including woodcocks, pheasants, and partridges along with other types of game.
Breed Groups
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Is the Braque Saint-Germain Right For You?
Braque Saint-Germains are friendly animals that are incredibly loyal to their owners. In fact, some members of this cuddly breed are notorious face-lickers. However, prospective owners should be aware that these dogs can be quite boisterous as puppies and, therefore, they may not be the best choice of pet for families that contain toddlers or other young children. Even so, Braque Saint-Germains are a good choice for households with other animals because members of this breed typically get along well with other pets.
In 5 Words
- Affectionate
- Obedient
- Loyal
- Friendly
- Easy-to-train
Characteristics
Learn About the Braque Saint-Germain
Description
General Description
Braque Saint-Germains are medium sized dogs with heavy bone structures and athletic bodies. They have level backs as well as deep chests and tucked up bellies. These dogs also possess rounded skulls, proportionate muzzles, and pink noses. Their teeth should meet in a scissors bite. Long, arched necks with a slight dewlap are yet another breed feature. These dogs have large yellow eyes that are golden yellow in color and possess a kind, animated expression. Braque Saint-Germains additionally possess moderately sized ears with round tips that hang down beside their heads. These dogs have low-set, tapered tails that hang horizontally. Members of this breed are also known for their well-balanced, galloping gait.
Size
Male of this breed typically stand between 22 and 24 inches tall (56 and 62 centimeters). Their female contemporaries are only shorter than they are by about an inch (2.5 centimeters). Dogs of both genders generally range from 40 to 57 pounds (18 to 26 kilograms) in weight.
Coat
Braque Saint-Germains have a short, sleek coat. These dogs are usually an off-white color with either bright orange or fawn colored patches.
Short History of the Braque Saint-Germain
Braque Saint-Germains date back to the 1830s, where they originated as a cross between different types of pointers. Members of this breed were most commonly found around the town of Saint Germain en Laye, from whence they took their name. These individuals were also present at the first dog show in France some thirty years after their creation. In 1913, an official breed club was established. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) currently recognizes these dogs as part of their Pointing Dogs group and the United Kennel Club (UKC) has likewise extended membership to the breed. Braque Saint-Germains are also acknowledged by various other organizations such as hunting clubs and minor breed registries.
Temperament
Braque Saint-Germains were primarily created to be hunting companions but they nonetheless make good, well-balanced family members. Like most hunting dogs, Braque Saint-Germains are friendly animals that are incredibly loyal to their owners. In fact, some members of this cuddly breed are notorious face-lickers. However, prospective owners should be aware that these dogs can be quite boisterous as puppies and, therefore, they may not be the best choice of pet for families that contain toddlers or other young children. Even so, Braque Saint-Germains are a good choice for households with other animals because members of this breed typically get along well with other pets. Although some individuals may suffer from extreme shyness around unfamiliar people, properly socialized members of this breed are generally polite, albeit reserved, around strangers. Despite their amicable natures, many Braque Saint-Germains make good watchdogs by sounding the alarm when new folks arrive in their domain. Other members of this breed may not be equally inclined to bark at intruders. In either case, these dogs are not a good choice for an estate or livestock guardian because they are not at all aggressive.
Caring for Your Braque Saint-Germain
General Health
Braque Saint-Germains tend to be an exceptionally healthy breed. These dogs are nonetheless prone to hip problems as they age. Although these dogs do get along perfectly fine in warmer environments, they do not fare well in excessively cold or damp conditions due to the presence of their thin coats. Owners of this breed should subsequently avoid taking their dogs out hunting in very chilly weather.
Care
Daily
Braque Saint Germains were bred to be able to work for long periods of time and these energetic dogs seem to like doing just that. As a result, members of this breed must have at least an hour of vigorous exercise on daily basis but a workout that last several more hours is sure to be more to their liking. Although Braque Saint-Germains would greatly enjoy running around in a safe spot and would no doubt prefer to do so, these dogs will make fine jogging buddies. Using these dogs for their original purpose of hunting game birds is also a highly recommended pastime for those individuals that have the inclination to train their pets for the task.
Weekly
It is always a good idea to clean your pet’s teeth several times per week, if not every day. Braque Saint-Germains also need their coat brushed once a week and their ears cleaned out on a regular basis.
Monthly
All dogs need parasite prevention medications to keep fleas, ticks, and heartworms at bay. Most of these products need to be given to the individual in question at least once a month for maximum effect. Braque Saint-Germains will also need to be bathed every month but this shouldn’t be a problematic task because these dogs generally like baths.
Grooming & Bathing
Braque Saint-Germains are a low-maintenance breed as far as their grooming requirements go. Of course, owners will nonetheless want to make sure their pet’s toenails are trimmed on a regular basis in order to prevent otherwise avoidable injuries.
Exercise & Training
Braque Saint-Germains are fairly trainable and obedient as a whole, but pushing these dogs is one way to cause them to balk at the commands they are given. In fact, these dogs are said be quite stubborn at times. Obedience training and early socialization are key factors in helping members of this breed become good citizens. However, Braque Saint-Germains have hardy dispositions and can probably handle a harsh word or two without going to pieces. Shyer individuals may additionally require help in overcoming that particular trait as it can cause them to be nervous around strangers.
Due to their need for extensive workout sessions and their love of running free, these dogs are not recommended for apartment life. Unless they are given extremely long walks every single day, Braque Saint-Germains probably will not fare well in city environment either. Members of this breed are best suited for families in rural areas on estates that have plenty of wide open spaces.
Braque Saint-Germain Picture Gallery
