Auvergne Pointer
Other names: Braque d'Auvergne, Bleu d'Auvergne

This all-purpose gun dog, the Auvergne Pointer, is also an obedient and sweet-tempered companion dog. Although it’s not massively popular outside of France, it certainly looks very similar to other Pointer breeds. If you are looking for a family dog that is known to be affectionate and gentle too, look no further than the Auvergne Pointer.
Key facts about the Auvergne Pointer
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Origins and history
Although the exact heritage of the Braque d'Auvergne breed isn’t documented, it is certainly an old breed developed during the 1700s in France. During the 1600s, the Braque Francais breed was very popular and it is understood that this breed was crossed with other scenting and working dogs in the Braque region. The Auvergne Pointer breed was recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 2006.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 7 - Pointing Dogs
Section
Section 1 : Continental Pointing Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Auvergne Pointer
Adult size
Female : Between 22 and 25 in
Male : Between 21 and 23 in
Weight
Female : Between 49 and 55 lb
Male : Between 49 and 55 lb
Coat colour
White with black all-over body markings giving a blue tinge.
Type of coat
This dog has a smooth, short coat, with a glossy appearance. While white with black markings is the only acceptable coat colouring, the markings may be ticked or roan.
Eye colour
Dark hazel.
Description
The Auvergne Pointer dog has a noble appearance, with a large, rectangular body contour. The dog’s facial shape where the skull and muzzle are not parallel gives the dog a Roman-type nose. The dog’s ears hang down and have rounded edges. The dog has a muscular body, while he carries his tail quite high and horizontal. His strong legs will carry him over long distances and many terrains.
Good to know
Although often used and bred as a working and pointing dog, the Braque d'Auvergne does not like working independently, much preferring to instinctively understand his master’s requirements and to respond effectively. Because of this, together with his eagerness to learn, he is the ideal candidate for working trials and agility tests.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Auvergne Pointer
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Is the Auvergne Pointer right for you?
take the testLifestyle
Compatibility
Price
As a rare breed, you can expect to pay between £1200 to £1500 for a Braque d'Auvergne puppy. Considering his large size, monthly costs to feed and maintain him will be between £100 to £120.
Grooming
With his short coat, grooming isn’t too much of a challenge. Of course, brushing the dog’s coat several times weekly will help to prevent shedding. As a dog who is hunting in the fields and woods, be prepared to check his ears for debris and grime to prevent any ear infections and problems.
Shedding
The Braque d'Auvergne sheds hair moderately.
Nutrition of the Auvergne Pointer
As a large-sized dog breed, the Auvergne Pointer requires a high-quality, nutritious dog food especially formulated and suitable for a working dog.
Health of the Auvergne Pointer
Life expectancy
Although a healthy breed generally, the Braque d'Auvergne may suffer occasionally from congenital health issues. It's life expectancy is 11 to 13 years.
Strong / robust
Certainly a strong and enduring dog who is capable of working in the field for most of the day when required to.
Withstand heat
As a short-haired breed, the Auvergne Pointer doesn’t have any problems during periods of hot weather or when enduring runs over long distances.
Withstand cold
As a canine that is used to hunting and working in the mountainous regions of France, this dog doesn’t generally experience problems working outdoors in all weathers. However, he is also just as happy to remain at home, in the comfort of a heated house.
Tendency to put on weight
A very active and energetic dog, who will burn many calories when working. On the other hand though, a dog who is more of a companion pet will be prone to obesity if overfed and not given sufficient exercise.
Common illnesses
- Canine hip and elbow dysplasia
- Patellar luxation
- Eye problems
- Demodex mange
- Cleft lip
- Aortic stenosis