Pet Wiki

Braque du Bourbonnais

Also called Bourbonnais Pointer, Bourbonnais Pointing Dog

Recognised breedFCI group 7Short profile

From France, the Bourbonnais province in central France.12

At a glance the quick version

Height, male51 to 57 cm123
Height, female48 to 55 cm123
Sizemedium
kind and affectionate at home
keen, clever hunter
adapts to many terrains
13

Coat and looks how to spot one

short fine coat

A fine, dense short coat that can be a little longer and coarser along the back, on a compact, muscular body. Some dogs are born with little or no tail.132

Colourswhite with fine brown ticking ('wine dregs')white with fine fawn ticking ('peach blossom')roan132

Personality what they are like

A warm, loving family dog that is very loyal to its people. Out in the field it switches on, becoming a focused and passionate hunter that adapts to all kinds of ground and game.132

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A keen pointing dog that suits owners who hunt or can give it plenty of active outdoor time.13

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

A short, fine coat with no trimming required by the standard.13

The story where it all began

The breed was described as early as 1598 as a hardy hunting companion with a ticked white coat. Very strict colour and tail rules in the 1930s pushed it almost out of existence, and after the Second World War registrations stopped. Michel Comte revived it from 1973, and the breed reached the USA in 1988.123

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was already written about in 1598.1

  2. 2

    Its two colours have poetic French nicknames: 'wine dregs' for the brown and 'peach blossom' for the fawn.2

  3. 3

    Some puppies are born with a natural bobtail or no tail at all.1

  4. 4

    The modern breed exists thanks to Michel Comte, who tracked down dogs of Bourbonnais descent in 1973.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from the historic province of Bourbonnais in France, where it originated. The name literally means 'Bourbonnais pointer' or 'Bourbonnais pointing dog'.4

Name ideas for your new friend

BourbonGastonColetteFleurPierreAmbreRustyChampagneBiscuitMarcelLavandeTruffle

A day in the life told by a Braque du Bourbonnais

This morning, I woke up and stretched, ready for my favorite part of the day: a long walk in the woods with my humans. I sniffed every tree and bush, my tail wagging like a flag. When we got home, I curled up on the couch between my kids, who giggled as I licked their faces. Later, I watched the garden from the window, guarding my family with my loyal heart. As the sun set, I felt so happy. I don't need much, just love, a good sniff, and my people by my side. That's the best life.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 179, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 Continental Pointing Dogs, type Braque, with working trial; standard dated 21.02.2006.1
UKC
Gun Dog Group; recognised 2006.3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Braque du Bourbonnais. 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

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

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. 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 du Bourbonnais, and at what times?

Feed adult Braque du Bourbonnais at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. The exact times can fit your schedule, but consistency helps. Check the food label for amounts and ask your vet for a tailored plan.5

What should a Braque du Bourbonnais eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially risky for dogs. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.6

How often should I bathe a Braque du Bourbonnais?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, while general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or spends lots of time outdoors. Use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Braque du Bourbonnais need brushing?

Brush your Braque du Bourbonnais weekly to keep its short fine coat healthy. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This also helps reduce shedding and keeps the coat shiny.7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Braque du Bourbonnais's nails, and how often?

Trim your dog's nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If you are unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer for help.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Braque du Bourbonnais need?

This active hunting breed needs plenty of daily exercise, including walks and playtime. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends daily walks and play. It is ideal for owners who can give it active outdoor time or enjoy hunting.13 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Braque du Bourbonnais's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, at least a few times a week using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Braque du Bourbonnais live?

Lifespan varies, but senior years typically begin around age 8. For a more accurate life expectancy for your individual dog, ask your vet. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Braque du Bourbonnais good with children and other pets?

The Braque du Bourbonnais is a warm, loving family dog that is very loyal to its people. With proper socialization, it can be good with children and other pets. Always supervise interactions.132

Can a Braque du Bourbonnais be left alone?

This loyal breed prefers company and may not enjoy being left alone for long periods. It varies by individual dog; consult a good breeder or trainer for advice on separation training.

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. 179 Braque du Bourbonnais fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Braque du Bourbonnais en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, colours, history, fun facts
  3. UKC Braque du Bourbonnais ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, colours, temperament
  4. akc.org akc.org
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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