Pont-Audemer Spaniel

Other names: Epagneul Pont-Audemer, Setter of Pont-Audemer

Pont-Audemer Spaniel

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a rare French gundog breed, which was developed in the 19th century after breeders mixed water spaniels and English Setters. Despite having many suitable qualities, they’re rarely kept as household pets. But these working dogs are loving, gentle, and really easy to train. They’re also very difficult to come by. Potential owners will need to find a specialist breeder. 

Key facts about the Pont-Audemer Spaniel

Life expectancy :

7

19

12

14

Temperament :

Affectionate Playful Hunter

Size :

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Origins and history

The Pont-Audemer breed was developed in 19th century France. While it's exact origins are unknown, it's thought that English and French Water Spaniels, as well as English Setters, were thrown in the mix when creating this breed. 

Although it never became as popular as some other gun dogs, the Pont-Audemer was still considered as a first-rate tracker and retriever. They specialised in retrieving water birds like wild ducks. They have a real enthusiasm for their work, and a playful nature. 

They're also known as le petit clown des Marais, which translates as the little clown of the marshes. 

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 7 - Pointing Dogs

Section

Section 1 : Continental Pointing Dogs

Physical characteristics of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel

Adult size

Female : Between 20 and 23 in

Male : Between 20 and 23 in

Weight

Female : Between 37 and 44 lb

Male : Between 37 and 44 lb

Coat colour

Type of coat

Eye colour

Brown

Description

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a vigorous dog. She has a very unique wavy coat, but apart from that she looks very similar to more popular spaniel breeds such as the Springer. She has a long lean body, a high head carriage, and strong sturdy legs. Like most spaniels, they have long floppy ears and eyes filled with a gentle expression.

Good to know

They are very rare and you might have trouble finding one in the UK. Importing dogs can be a lengthy and very expensive process. 

It’s really important to remember that these dogs are primarily working dogs. They might sometimes struggle with the “domesticated” life of the modern day dog. 

Temperament

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    Affectionate

    She would make an excellent pet dog for the whole family.

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    Playful

    She has high energy and loves to play. The Pont-Audemer is especially playful as a young pup and will still enjoy games of fetch (especially in water) long into her adulthood.

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    Calm

    This depends. When she’s working, this dog is constantly on the move. But when work is over, she loves to chill out and relax.

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    Intelligent

    The Pont-Audemer is a quick learner that really enjoys being mentally challenged. She is a well-balanced and obedient dog.

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    Hunter

    These dogs were bred to hunt, track, and retrieve game. It’s what they’ve been doing hundreds of years. A very good research dog, she adapts to all terrains, but especially likes watery grounds and deep water. She works with great zeal and perseverance.

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    Fearful / wary of strangers

    She is always happy and gets along very well with everyone. She is neither fearful, nor aggressive with strangers.

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    Independent

    She is a very affectionate dog with members of her family but who keeps a small independent side like many spaniels.

    Behaviour of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel

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      Tolerates solitude

      Pack dogs aren’t comfortable with long periods of solitude. She can be left alone for a short time, but only if her needs have been met.

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      Easy to train / obedience

      This smart dog is naturally obedient and very easy to train. In fact, she has a real willingness to learn.

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      Barking

      The Pont-Audemer is a quiet dog that will only bark when she needs to.

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      Tendency to run away

      This dog is a high-flight risk, especially if she’s not getting enough exercise or mental stimulation. A bored Pont-Audemer may go off in search of her own adventures. 

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      Destructive

      She will only become destructive if her needs are not being met.

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      Greedy / Gluttony

      These active dogs have a pretty big appetite but they aren’t excessive overeaters. A treat is always a welcome return for good behaviour.

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      Guard dog

      Social, happy, and quiet, the Pont Audemer is not a great watchdog.

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      First dog

      She is the perfect first companion for a master hunter or a sporty family.

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      Lifestyle

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        Pont-Audemer Spaniel in a flat

        Against all odds, this dog can very well adapt to city life and can even live in an apartment if she has plenty of time every day for long walks in open spaces.

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        Need for exercise / Sporty

        She is primarily a born hunter who needs a lot of exercise to meet all her needs. An enduring and rustic dog, she will gladly accompany her owner in his various activities.

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        Travelling / easy to transport

        Her average size and joyous nature allow her to follow her owners in all their travels as long as she has benefited from good socialisation from a young age.

        Compatibility

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          Pont-Audemer Spaniel and cats

          These dogs don’t mix well with cats. A cat living under the same roof as one of these dogs is going to have a pretty rough time unless they grew up together.

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          Pont-Audemer Spaniel and dogs

          Pont-Audemers are pack dogs, and get on really well with other canines. 

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          Pont-Audemer Spaniel and children

          Although they’re not really pets, these dogs can still get on really with children. They're loving, affectionate, and very playful.

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          Pont-Audemer Spaniel and the elderly

          Some elderly people may struggle to meet this dog's demands, but those who are still sufficiently active and dynamic can adopt this spaniel.

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          Price

          We do not have enough data to set an average price. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £70 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.

          Grooming

          Regular and weekly maintenance is necessary for this curly-haired dog. Her drooping ears that must be monitored in particular, and cleaned after each hunt.

          Shedding

          Some younger pups can suffer from hair loss. It usually occurs between the first 7-18 months. Otherwise, shedding is moderate.

          Nutrition of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel

          These dogs need 3 to 4 cups of high quality dog food every day. Whether her diet is traditional or industrial, the most important thing for this dog is that she enjoys balanced rations according to her age, lifestyle and daily activities.

          Health of the Pont-Audemer Spaniel

          Life expectancy

          This a very healthy dog with an average life expectancy of 13 years.

          Strong / robust

          This dog was bred to hunt and track game through the dense countryside, meaning she’s tough, durable, and extremely robust.

          Withstand heat

          The Pont-Audemer is comfortable in warmer climates, although she shouldn't be exercised during the hottest part of the day. She loves running and the hot weather won’t stop her. This puts her at risk of overheating and heat exhaustion. 

          Withstand cold

          Although she only has a single-layered coat, it is waterproof. Pont-Audemers have no problems dealing with cold and wintery conditions. 

          Tendency to put on weight

          This dynamic lady usually works out enough to stay in shape.

          Common illnesses

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