Artois Hound
Other names: Chien d’Artois, Picard, Briquet

Formerly known as the Picard, the Artois Hound has been in existence for over 500 years. It’s believed to have been developed from the English Beagle and was used as a hunting dog by members of the French aristocracy. Unsurprisingly, the Artois Hound has an excellent nose, first-class tracking skills, and lots of stamina. They’re happiest when working, but can still make excellent pets.This is a friendly, affectionate, and loyal animal.
Key facts about the Artois Hound
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Origins and history
The breed was developed in France around 500 years ago and reached its peak during the 17th century, when it was a dog of choice for the French Nobility. For hundreds of years it worked alongside hunters, tracking rabbits, foxes, and boars. Its numbers remained relatively high until after the second world war. The effects of the war on France, as well as growing industrialisation, forced the breed to the brink of extinction. It was saved by a French breeder named Mr. B Audrechy. After hearing of the Artois Hound’s decline, he located the remaining dogs and set up a breeding programme. The Artois Hound club now has over 500 dogs registered in its stud book and the breed’s overall numbers are on the rise.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section
Section 1 : Scent hounds
Physical characteristics of the Artois Hound
Adult size
Female : Between 21 and 23 in
Male : Between 21 and 23 in
Weight
Female : Between 62 and 66 lb
Male : Between 62 and 66 lb
Coat colour
Tri-colour. Black, white, and fawn.
Type of coat
Short. Flat. Rough. Close to the body.
Eye colour
Deep brown.
Description
Medium sized, well-constructed dog with quite a long body. Short, sturdy legs. Long, thin tail and large, pendulous ears. A warm and friendly expression.
Good to know
It’s advised to check their ears on a regular basis. They also need a monthly clean. Any breeds with long, pendulous ears are prone to ear infections.
Physical exercise is not enough for these dogs. They also need a mental challenge. This is a task-driven breed with a very strong work ethic.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Artois Hound
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Is the Artois Hound right for you?
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Compatibility
Price
The initial cost of a Artois Hound puppy is between £1,000 to £1,200. The average cost to keep one of these dogs (including vet bills, insurance, and food) is between £80 to £85 a month.
Grooming
Thanks to its very short coat, the Artois Hound has minimal grooming requirements. Very easy to maintain.
Nutrition of the Artois Hound
3 cups of high-quality dog food per day.
Health of the Artois Hound
Life expectancy
A very healthy and well-bred dog. Its average life expectancy is between 11 and 13 years.
Strong / robust
A well-balanced, muscular dog. Not the strongest, but still very robust. Comfortable tracking its prey across rugged terrain.
Withstand heat
No issues when its comes to dealing with heat. The Artois Hound has a short, close fitting coat that prevents them from overheating.
Withstand cold
Not built for the cold. Will need a doggy coat if temperatures suddenly plummet.
Tendency to put on weight
No issues with unexplained weight gain or obesity. An active dog with a naturally lean frame.