Braque du Bourbonnais

About the Braque du Bourbonnais

The Braque du Bourbonnais is a large-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 18 and 25 kg when fully grown, while females weigh 16 to 22 kg. With an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, the Braque du Bourbonnais is a moderately long-lived breed.

Temperament

The Braque du Bourbonnais is a powerful and dignified breed with a calm, steady temperament. They are devoted to their families and can be gentle giants at home. They require an experienced owner who understands large breed needs. Proper training and socialisation from puppyhood are essential for a well-adjusted adult dog.

Exercise Needs

Braque du Bourbonnais dogs are active and need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise. Long walks, hiking, and off-lead running in safe areas are ideal. They have good stamina and enjoy outdoor adventures. Puppies should have controlled exercise to protect growing joints. Mental stimulation through training is also essential.

Common Health Issues

As a large breed, Braque du Bourbonnais dogs may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), and joint problems. Large breeds can also be susceptible to certain cancers and heart conditions. Feeding a large-breed-specific diet during growth helps prevent skeletal issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health problems.

Grooming

Braque du Bourbonnais dogs need regular grooming including weekly brushing to manage their coat and reduce shedding. Bathing can be challenging due to their size — a walk-in shower or professional groomer may be helpful. Regular nail trimming is important. Check ears regularly, especially if they are floppy, as moisture can lead to infections.

Famous Braque du Bourbonnais Owners

The Braque du Bourbonnais was developed in the French region of Bourbonnais in the 15th and 16th centuries, with early descriptions appearing in French hunting literature of the period; French cynologist Olivier de Serres mentioned a "Bourbonnais pointer" in his 1600 agricultural treatise. The breed nearly vanished after World War I but was revived by Michel Comte, who founded the Club du Braque du Bourbonnais in 1982 after tracking down surviving examples. Comte's dedicated reconstruction programme drew on a handful of remaining dogs and careful selective breeding to restore the breed to health. The Braque du Bourbonnais was recognised by the FCI in 1981 and remains a celebrated example of a breed saved from extinction.

Weight & Growth

A fully grown male Braque du Bourbonnais weighs approximately 22 kg on average. Use Dogpanion's free size predictor to estimate your Braque du Bourbonnais puppy's adult weight based on their current age and weight.

Braque du Bourbonnais Care Tools

Dogpanion offers free tools to help you care for your Braque du Bourbonnais:

• Age Calculator : Convert your Braque du Bourbonnais's age to human years using breed-specific formulas
• Size Predictor : Estimate your puppy's adult weight
• Food Safety Checker : Check which foods are safe or toxic for dogs
• Health Tracker : Log vaccinations, vet visits, and medications