French Tricolour Hound

Other name: 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.

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Life expectancy	The French Tricolour Hound has a life expectancy of between 10 and 12 years
Temperament	Intelligent High prey drive
Size	Large
Adult size	Female Between 24 and 27 in Male Between 24 and 28 in
Adult weight	Female Between 55 and 66 lb Male Between 55 and 66 lb
Coat colour	Black White Brown Red
Type of coat	Very short
Eye colour	Brown

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.

More details about the French Tricolour Hound

French Tricolour Hound: 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.

Physical characteristics of the French Tricolour Hound

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.

FCI classification of the French Tricolour Hound

Group 6 - Scent hounds and related breeds
Section 1 : Scent hounds

French Tricolour Hound: Characteristics

Not very affectionate

This is not really a companion dog, since he is independent, stubborn, and not really inclined to affection.

Moderately playful

He prefers to work, but doesn’t always distinguish between the two – so long as he’s kept busy.

Not very calm

This dog is always on the alert. It is rare to see him fully calm, since he lives in a pack and enjoys constant distractions.

High intelligence

The French Tricolour Hound is intelligent, and a disciplined hunter.

High prey drive

This is primarily a hunting dog; it is near impossible to quash his scenthound instincts.

Moderately fearful of strangers

He is more stand-offish than nervous around strangers.

Very independent

When the scent calls, he may well forget his master and act independently.

French Tricolour Hound: Behaviour

Can't tolerate being left alone

This dog does not like to be left alone and may howl if neglected.

Moderately easy to train

He is clever and eager to learn, but easily distracted. He may become stubborn or lose focus, particularly if there are lots of smells going on. Consistent and expert training is necessary for good results.

Tends to be very vocal

He barks a lot, mainly when working in a group.

Has a tendency to run away

He is easily drawn away by a scent and may be hard to recall.

Can be destructive

This dog has the power and the passion to tear a home apart if he is left alone or without exercise for too long.

Moderately food motivated

Although not particularly greedy, it is better to ration his daily meals to avoid a poorly tummy.

Bad watchdog

This dog is not a good guardian. He may bark at intruders, but equally he may make friends with them. He certainly won’t tackle them unless they physically attack his family.

Training a French Tricolour Hound

French Tricolour Hound: Lifestyle

Not very compatible with living in a flat

This is a bit too much dog for an apartment. He needs daily walks and runs outside and good access to a garden or countryside space.

Needs a lot of exercise

This dog needs lots of daily exercise, which can be complicated since if you let him off his lead it can be a challenge to get him back. Without quality daily exercise, this dog can quickly become unmanageable.

Moderately easy to travel with

Not suitable for public transport, the French Tricolour hound should be fine in a car if he gets used to it as a puppy.

Breed compatibility French Tricolour Hound

Not very compatible with cats

He may just about tolerate a cat that he was raised with, but don’t bank on it. This hunting hound sees cats as prey, and will give chase to all that cross his path.

Compatible with other dogs

He gets on with other dogs and enjoys the company of his pack. Dogs such as this learn the canine codes from a very young age.

Moderately compatible with children

He is generally affectionate and gentle with children who respect his nature, especially if he has grown up around children. However, because he’s big and likes to tussle he is not ideal around toddlers.

Not compatible with senior owners

Potential owners should be aware of the intense training and exercise needs of this dog.

Not recommended for a first-time owner

Strong-willed and work-oriented, the French Tricolour Hound is not an ideal first dog, especially when you take into consideration his training and exercise needs.

French Tricolour Hound: Purchase price

We do not have enough data to set an average price. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £60 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.

French Tricolour Hound: Shedding

Average

Moderate and seasonal.

French Tricolour Hound: Grooming

Regular but not excessive brushing and nail-clipping is required for the French Tricolour hound. His ears should also be checked carefully for dirt which can lead to infection.