French Tricolour Hound
Other names: Chien Français Tricolore
Part of the extended ‘multi-coloured French hound’ family (see also: French White and Orange Hound; French White and Black Hound; Great Anglo-French White and Orange Hound etc), this three-coloured hunting pooch is all the same a rare beast. Athletic and hard-working, the French Tricolour hound is happy to take some down-time at home with the family. Although not too demanding as a pet, his need for exercise and his often baroque singing style mean that he is not always the ideal choice for civilian life, particularly in the city.
Key facts about the French Tricolour Hound
Life expectancy :
Temperament :
Intelligent HunterSize :
Origins and history
A whole range of hunting dogs, many of whom remain close scenthound cousins to the present subject, were developed throughout France in the 19th century. Often the breeders would incorporate elements of Britain’s famous dogs while trying to produce the perfect hunters. However, despite their variety and utility, the French Tricolour and his cousins have failed to become popular outside of France, and their numbers remain somewhat limited.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section
Section 1 : Scent hounds
Physical characteristics of the French Tricolour Hound
Adult size
Female : Between 24 and 27 in
Male : Between 24 and 28 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 66 lb
Male : Between 55 and 66 lb
Coat colour
White with black mantle and tan/copper markings.
Type of coat
Short and fine.
Eye colour
Brown.
Description
This large but sleek hound is an elegantly athletic individual. His literal ‘hound-dog eyes’ are often given greater pathos by black rings, like eye-liner, around the edges. While his forward-facing silhouette is modest, a barrel chest – designed for deep, chasing breaths – partly fills out his tall, square profile. His face is long and an already significant muzzle is given added impact by virtue of its long white stripe.
Good to know
This dog is rarely kept as a pet, nor commonly found outside of France. If you truly find yourself drawn to the French Tricolour Hound, you may have to travel to find him.