French Tricolour Hound

Other names: Chien Français Tricolore

French Tricolour Hound

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 :

5

17

10

12

Temperament :

Intelligent Hunter

Size :

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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

Type of coat

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.

Temperament

  • 33%

    Affectionate

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

  • 66%

    Playful

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

  • 33%

    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.

  • 100%

    Intelligent

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

  • 100%

    Hunter

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

  • 66%

    Fearful / wary of strangers

    He is more stand-offish than nervous around strangers.

  • 100%

    Independent

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

    Behaviour of the French Tricolour Hound

    • 33%

      Tolerates solitude

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

    • 66%

      Easy to train / obedience

      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.

    • 100%

      Barking

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

    • 100%

      Tendency to run away

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

    • 66%

      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.

    • 66%

      Greedy / Gluttony

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

    • 33%

      Guard dog

      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.

    • 33%

      First dog

      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.

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      Lifestyle

      • 33%

        French Tricolour Hound 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.

      • 100%

        Need for exercise / Sporty

        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.

      • 66%

        Travelling / easy to transport

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

        Compatibility

        • 33%

          French Tricolour Hound and 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.

        • 100%

          French Tricolour Hound and 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.

        • 66%

          French Tricolour Hound and 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.

        • 33%

          French Tricolour Hound and the elderly

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

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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 £60 to £100 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.

          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.

          Shedding

          Moderate and seasonal.

          Nutrition of the French Tricolour Hound

          Three cups of quality dog food divided over two meals per day. His meals should ideally be taken at least one hour before and after intense physical activity.

          Health of the French Tricolour Hound

          Life expectancy

          The French Tricolour hound is generally a fit and healthy creature, with an average life expectancy of 11 years.

          Strong / robust

          This is one solid dog.

          Withstand heat

          He is quite fine in moderate heat but should not be over-exercised at the height of summer.

          Withstand cold

          He does not mind a bit of cold but a solid shelter must be made available in winter.

          Tendency to put on weight

          This is an athletic and slender dog who will maintain his shape as long as his needs are met.

          Common illnesses

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