Pet Wiki

Artois Hound

Also called Chien d'Artois, Picard, Picard Briquet

Recognised breedFCI group 6Short profile

From France, the Artois region in the north.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight28 to 30 kg12
Height53 to 58 cm1
Sizemedium

FCI gives an average weight of 28-30 kg.

affectionate and balanced
excellent nose
hardy and energetic
1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, flat coat

A short, dense coat lying flat to the body, on a sturdy hound with a squarish muzzle and long, low-set ears.12

Coloursdark fawn tricolour (hare- or badger-coloured) with a mantle or large patches1

Personality what they are like

Tough and lively in the field, with a very keen nose and a well-balanced, affectionate nature. It works well in a pack.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A hunting hound used for small game, deer and wild boar, so it thrives on plenty of outdoor exercise.21

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short, flat coat is easy to look after.1

Company who they like around

Bred to hunt in packs, so it gets on well with other dogs.1

The story where it all began

Known from the early 1600s, this northern French hound was prized under Henri IV and Louis XIII. Crossing with British hounds in the 19th century and the upheaval of the Second World War left it close to extinction, and enthusiasts rebuilt it from a few remaining dogs in the 1970s.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was once called the Picard, after the neighbouring region.1

  2. 2

    Written references to the breed go back to 1609.2

  3. 3

    It was brought back in the 1970s through the work of M. Audrechy and Mme Pilat.1

  4. 4

    It has a loud, musical hound voice.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Artois Hound is named after the Artois region in northern France, where the breed was developed. A similarly named dog was referenced as early as 1609 in a letter mentioning "a pack of little d'Artois dogs."2

Name ideas for your new friend

BriquetPicardChienRustiqueGastonBijouFuretChasseurMiloNobleTruffleÉclair

A day in the life told by an Artois Hound

This morning, I bounded out of my basket the moment I heard the back door open. My human laughed and tossed my leash, and we headed into the crisp northern air. I love the scents of the fields, each one a story waiting to be read. We trotted along the hedgerows, and I let my nose lead, my tail wagging with every discovery. Later, we joined my pack of friends at the park. We chased each other in circles, and I showed them my best 'I found something' pose. Back home, I curled up on the sofa, my head on my human's lap, feeling warm and content. It was a perfect day, full of smells and love.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 28, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.2 Medium-sized hounds; standard dated 24.07.1996.1
UKC
Recognised (per Wikipedia).2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Artois Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Artois Hound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Artois Hound at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent morning and evening times work well. Follow the food label and your vet's advice for exact amounts.3

What should an Artois Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to your hound's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a safe diet.4

How often should I bathe an Artois Hound?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, and at least once every three months is fine. Bathe more often if your hound gets very dirty from outdoor adventures. The short coat is easy to care for.15 Pet Wiki plan

How often does an Artois Hound need brushing?

Brush your Artois Hound weekly to remove loose hair and keep the short coat healthy. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days. It's a simple, pleasant routine.15 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Artois Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer, cut small bits at a time, and stop before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does an Artois Hound need?

Your Artois Hound needs plenty of outdoor exercise daily, long walks, runs, or play sessions. As a hunting hound, it thrives on activity. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play to keep it happy.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Artois Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth at least 2, 3 times a week with dog toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Artois Hound live?

Lifespan varies by individual and care. For a reliable estimate, ask your breeder or veterinarian.

Is an Artois Hound good with children and other pets?

Artois Hounds are affectionate and get along well with other dogs thanks to their pack history. Their balanced nature is a plus, but always supervise with young children. For other pets, ask your breeder about your dog's socialization.1

Can an Artois Hound be left alone?

As a pack-oriented hound, your Artois Hound may prefer company and could become anxious if left alone for long periods. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. For specific advice, ask your vet or a trainer.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard No. 28 Chien d'Artois fci.beused for recognition, size, weight, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Artois Hound - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, uses, UKC recognition, fun facts
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.