A tall, athletic hound that combines strength with a light, lean build, with a deep but narrow chest, a fine head of medium length and a long tail. The short coat feels hard, even a little coarse, under the hand.32
Colourspure whiteoff-white (café-au-lait white)white with light orange or lemon patcheswhite with an orange or lemon mantle32
Personality what they are like
A bold, clever pack hound with a strong hunting drive. It is bred to work with other hounds and follows a scent with real determination.2
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. The Billy is built to cover ground at a gallop, and its speed means off-lead exercise should happen only in secure areas.21
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The short, harsh coat is easy to care for; an occasional brush is usually enough.32
Home where they are happiest
Traditionally kept in hunting packs in rural France; it suits an experienced, active home with plenty of space and secure fencing.21
Company who they like around
A pack hound by origin, used to working and living alongside other hounds.2
The story where it all began
Gaston Hublot du Rivault created the Billy in the 19th century at his Château de Billy, blending old French hound strains now extinct. The breed came close to disappearing after the Second World War, when only two of the hounds remained, and his son rebuilt it with Poitevin, Porcelaine and Harrier blood.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed takes its name from the Château de Billy, the family estate where it was created.1
2
Billys are still hunted in packs after roe deer and wild boar, the same job they were bred for.2
3
The Billy helped found another French pack hound, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named after the Château de Billy, the estate of its creator, Gaston Hublot du Rivault, in the Poitou region of western France.4
I woke up before sunrise, already sniffing the air for adventure. My pack and I raced across the meadow, noses low, following a scent that wound through the hedges. I bayed loudly when I found the trail, my voice carries for miles. After a good run, we trotted to the stream for a drink, then flopped under an oak tree. Back home, I wagged my tail and nudged my human’s hand for a scratch. Now I’m dozing by the fire, ready to dream of tomorrow’s chase.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 25, Group 6 (Scent hounds and related breeds), Section 1.1 Large-sized hounds; official standard dated 28.12.1973, country of origin France.3
A typical home-care rhythm for a Billy. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Billy tip
For a large, active Billy, choose low-fat, highly digestible treats that support dental health, and break them into small pieces to avoid overfeeding. Always adjust treat portions to keep their weight in check, and ask your vet about any specific dietary needs.
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 Billy, and at what times?
Feed your adult Billy at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Regular meal times help with digestion and training. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5
What should a Billy eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to your Billy's age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, and onions, these are especially harmful to dogs.6
How often should I bathe a Billy?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing your Billy every 56 days, but at least once every three months is fine. The short coat doesn't need frequent baths.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Billy need brushing?
Weekly brushing is ideal for Billy's short, harsh coat, Furry Diary recommends every 7 days. This keeps shedding under control and the coat healthy.327Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Billy's nails, and how often?
Trim your Billy's nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a proper nail clipper and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Billy need?
Billy needs very high exercise, daily walks and play are essential. Because of its speed, always use a secure area for off-lead activity.21Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Billy's teeth and ears?
Brush your Billy's teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Billy live?
Lifespan varies for each Billy, so ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations.
Is a Billy good with children and other pets?
Billy is a pack hound that usually gets along well with other dogs, but its strong hunting drive may not be safe with small pets. With children, early socialization and supervision are key.2
Can a Billy be left alone?
As a pack hound, Billy prefers company and may become anxious if left alone for long. Provide plenty of interaction or consider a canine companion. Consult a breeder for specific advice.2
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.
Poitevin
Porcelaine
Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange