Briquet de Provence

Also called Provence Briquet

A tough, willing hunting hound that is friendly at home, listens well and becomes very attached to its person.

Size	Medium
Weight	18 to 27 kg (40 to 60 lb)1
Height	44 to 55 cm (17 to 22 in)males 50 to 55 cm, females 44 to 50 cm1
Lifespan	11 to 13 years1
Coat	Short
Origin	France, from Provence in the south-east of the country.1

Rare breedShort profile

brave and hard-working

friendly and biddable

close bond with its owner

Personality what they are like

A tough, willing hunting hound that is friendly at home, listens well and becomes very attached to its person.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short

A short, practical coat in a warm brick-red shade, sometimes with a darker overlay, on a sturdy working hound frame.1

Coloursbrick redbrick red with black overlay1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Briquet de Provence. 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

An energetic hunting breed that needs plenty of exercise every day.1

The story where it all began

Hounds of this kind are mentioned in writing as far back as 1440, and a first standard was written in 1934. Numbers dropped sharply after the Second World War; enthusiasts began preserving the breed around 1980 and formed a breed club in 2003.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It was traditionally used on wild boar and hare in Provence.1
2
It is very rare, with fewer than ten new registrations a year.1
3
The French kennel club recognised it in 2006 even though the FCI does not.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Briquet means 'mixed dog' in Provençal, referring to a small hunting dog, and the breed has been described in French literature since 1440.1

Name ideas for your new friend

MistralOlivierRoussetteCassisFanfanTruffleLavandeBourdonCâlineGarriguePistouSoleil

A day in the life told by a Briquet de Provence

I wake with a yawn and a stretch, then follow my human into the garden. The scents of rosemary and thyme fill my nose, time to hunt for imaginary rabbits! I trot along the path, nose down, tail high. After a good sniff, I come back for a belly rub. At noon, we share a quiet moment under the olive tree. Later, I lead the way on a walk, my ears flapping. Now I curl up, dreaming of tomorrow's trails.

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

Recognised by the official bits

Société Centrale Canine (SCC): Recognised by the French kennel club in 2006 as one of a handful of French breeds not recognised by the FCI; standard last updated in 2008.1
FCI: Not recognised.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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

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

Frozen Yoghurt and Fruit Treats

These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.

You need

30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)

How

Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.

How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

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 Briquet de Provence, and at what times?

Feed your adult Briquet de Provence at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Regular meal times help their digestion. For the right amount, follow the food label and consult your vet.2

What should a Briquet de Provence eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Offer a high-quality dog food suited to an active breed. Keep your dog away from dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for a complete list.3

How often should I bathe a Briquet de Provence?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Briquet de Provence need brushing?

Brush your Briquet de Provence weekly to keep its short coat in good condition and remove loose hair. Pet Wiki's plan recommends weekly brushing.4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Briquet de Provence's nails, and how often?

Trim your dog's nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Briquet de Provence need?

This energetic hunting breed needs plenty of daily exercise. Plan for daily walks and active play to keep it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Briquet de Provence's teeth and ears?

Brush your Briquet de Provence's teeth at least every other day, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check and dry its floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Briquet de Provence live?

A Briquet de Provence typically lives 11 to 13 years. With good care, many enjoy a long, active life.1

Is a Briquet de Provence good with children and other pets?

This breed is friendly at home and listens well, so it can be good with children when properly socialised. Its hunting instincts mean it may chase small pets, so early training and supervision are important.1

Can a Briquet de Provence be left alone?

The Briquet de Provence becomes very attached to its person and may struggle with long periods alone. Start with short absences and provide mental stimulation. For more guidance, ask a good breeder or your vet.1

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.