Medium-sized Anglo-French Hound

Other names: Anglo-French Hound

Medium-sized Anglo-French Hound

The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie is a medium-sized dog traditionally bred (and still bred) for hunting. This dog functions best among a pack of similar dogs. It is one of a number of Anglo-French Hounds that has been bred over the years to assist landowners and the aristocracy in their pursuit of vermin and game. The word ‘Vénerie’ comes from the Latin word ‘hunt’.

Key facts about the Medium-sized Anglo-French Hound

Life expectancy :

6

18

11

13

Temperament :

Intelligent Hunter

Size :

Origins and history

The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie came about in the 1500s following an intermingling of breeds such as the Beagle and Poitevin. It is related to the English Foxhound, which is sometimes kept as a household pet often by people who live in rural climes. The ‘Petite’ part of the breed’s name refers to the size of game the dog chased rather than the dog itself.

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds

Section

Section 1 : Scent hounds

Physical characteristics of the Medium-sized Anglo-French Hound

Adult size

Female : Between 19 and 22 in

Male : Between 19 and 22 in

Weight

Female : Between 55 and 66 lb

Male : Between 55 and 66 lb

Coat colour

Black
White
Red
Sand

Type of coat

Short

Eye colour

Brown

Description

The Vénerie is a well-proportioned and muscular dog without too much bulk. Its profile is that of a well-established French dog. Its head is elongated and relatively slim; its muzzle long and tapered.

Good to know

The Vénerie is primarily of French origin as is bred to support hunting parties. It is not bred as a companion dog and is usually kept with a pack of dogs. Because of its heritage and continued use as a hunting dog the Vénerie would not be the ideal pet for a city dweller.

Temperament

  • 66%

    Affectionate

    Despite its hunting heritage this is an affectionate dog. The well-adjusted Vénerie does not tend to be aggressive.

  • 66%

    Playful

    An active dog that likes to play but is easily distracted; the Vénerie Hound will bore easily.

  • 33%

    Calm

    Not a calm dog, the Vénerie is happiest outdoors and in the company of other dogs.

  • 100%

    Intelligent

    This dog is intelligent but it easily loses focus, distracted by sounds, scents and noises.

  • 100%

    Hunter

    The Vénerie Hound is bred to hunt and as such considers this its purpose in life. It has an exceptionally high prey drive.

  • 66%

    Fearful / wary of strangers

    Hounds such as the Vénerie Hound tend to welcome visitors warmly and enjoy human company.

  • 66%

    Independent

    The Vénerie Hound exhibits a stubborn independence that is only bolstered by its fearsome determination to do things its way.

    Behaviour of the Medium-sized Anglo-French Hound

    • 33%

      Tolerates solitude

      This dog tolerates solitude within reason. Separation anxiety is seen of Vénerie Hounds that are left alone for long periods of time.

    • 33%

      Easy to train / obedience

      The dog is reasonably easy to train if the trainer is able to hold the attention of the dog and delivers lessons that are varied and exciting.

    • 100%

      Barking

      This dog barks to excess; it will also howl, and is not seen to tire.

    • 66%

      Tendency to run away

      A well-trained Hound can be recalled but on the whole the Vénerie will not come back if its focus is elsewhere.

    • 66%