Braque d'Auvergne

Also called Auvergne Pointer, Bleu d'Auvergne

A soft-natured, loving dog that is bright and willing to listen.

Size	Medium
Height	51 to 63 cm (20 to 25 in)males 55 to 63 cm, females 51 to 59 cm1 2
Coat	Short smooth coat
Origin	France, the Cantal area of the Auvergne in south-central France.1 2
Group	FCI group 7

Recognised breedShort profile

gentle and affectionate

clever and obedient

excellent nose

Personality what they are like

A soft-natured, loving dog that is bright and willing to listen. It has a keen sense of smell for the hunt and settles well into family life.1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

short smooth coat

A short, glossy coat that is neither silky nor harsh, on a sturdy but elegant body built to move easily over rough ground.1 2

Colourswhite with black ticking and black patches (giving a bluish look)black head and ears1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Braque d'Auvergne. 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 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working pointer with a light, supple gait made for long days crossing difficult country; it suits an active outdoor lifestyle.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Its short, shiny coat has no trimming called for in the standard.1

The story where it all began

An old French pointing breed that has lived in the mountains of Cantal for more than two centuries, descended from local hunting dogs. A long-told story links it to the Knights of Malta. The FCI standard dates back to 1955.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Black ticking over a white base gives the coat a blue sheen, hence the name 'Bleu d'Auvergne'.2
2
Its head and ears are always black.2
3
The breed has lived in the Cantal region for more than 200 years.1
4
The UK's Kennel Club added it to its list in 2016.2

Name ideas for your new friend

CantalBleuBriocheAubracFleuretteCévennesGarrigueMistralPommeRivieraTruffeVerdon

A day in the life told by a Braque d'Auvergne

This morning, I woke up and stretched, my nose twitching at the scent of dew on the grass. My human took me to the field, and I pointed at a hidden bird, my whole body still. They praised me, and we walked on. I love the wind in my fur and the thrill of the hunt. Back home, I curled at my human's feet, watching them read. They smiled and scratched my head. I think they know I'm happiest when we're together. Tonight, I'll dream of the fields.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 180, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 Continental Pointing Dogs, type Braque, with working trial; standard dated 24.03.2004.1
The Kennel Club (UK): Recognised from 1 April 2016.2

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

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
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

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

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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 Braque d'Auvergne, and at what times?

Feed your Braque d'Auvergne at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and it's best to stick to set times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Braque d'Auvergne eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, these are especially harmful to dogs. Always avoid giving them human foods like these.4

How often should I bathe a Braque d'Auvergne?

Bathe your Braque d'Auvergne at least once every three months, or more often if they get very dirty or have skin issues. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days. Use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse well.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Braque d'Auvergne need brushing?

Brush your Braque d'Auvergne weekly with a soft brush to keep their short, glossy coat healthy. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat shiny.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Braque d'Auvergne's nails, and how often?

Trim your Braque d'Auvergne's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 28 days as a starting point. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Braque d'Auvergne need?

Your Braque d'Auvergne needs daily exercise, including walks and play, as they are a working breed built for long days outdoors. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily activity to match their active outdoor lifestyle. They thrive with plenty of space to run and explore.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Braque d'Auvergne's teeth and ears?

Brush your Braque d'Auvergne's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently, never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests ear checks every 7 days and teeth brushing every 2 days.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Braque d'Auvergne live?

The lifespan of a Braque d'Auvergne varies, but they are generally a healthy breed. For specific longevity information, ask your vet or a good breeder. Regular vet check-ups help ensure a long, happy life.

Is a Braque d'Auvergne good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Braque d'Auvergne is a soft-natured, loving dog that settles well into family life and is bright and willing to listen. They are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Always supervise interactions to ensure harmony.1 2

Can a Braque d'Auvergne be left alone?

Braque d'Auvergnes are loving dogs that enjoy being with their family, so they may not do well left alone for long periods. Their temperament suggests they prefer company. For specific advice on alone time, ask your vet or a good breeder.1 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.