Picardy Spaniel

Also called Épagneul Picard

Recognised breedFCI group 7Short profile

From France (Picardy)1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight20 to 25 kg3

Height, male56 to 62 cm2 3 4

Height, female55 to 60 cm2 3 4

Lifespan14 years3

Sizelarge

FCI and UKC standards give no weight.

gentle and even-tempered

eager to please

versatile in marsh and woodland

2 4 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

medium, slightly wavy

A sturdy, well-boned continental spaniel with a gentle look. The coat is dense rather than silky, fine on the head and softly wavy over the body, often with an undercoat that helps in water and thick cover.2 3

Coloursgrey mottled (roan) with dark brown patchestan on head and legs ('autumn leaves')2 4

Personality what they are like

Calm, kind and adaptable, the Picardy Spaniel fits well into family life and is known for enjoying children. It learns readily and forms a close bond with its owner, while keeping a keen hunting instinct.2 4 3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Needs daily exercise to burn off energy; it thrives with hunting, retrieving, swimming or long country walks.2 3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush the wavy coat weekly and look after the long drop ears, especially after swimming.2 3

Home where they are happiest

Happiest with access to countryside, though it can adapt to town life with enough exercise.3

Company who they like around

Very people-oriented and good with children; enjoys being part of family routines.3 2

The story where it all began

Among the oldest continental spaniels, it was developed by hunters in Picardy who needed a tough, all-round dog for varied terrain and was a favourite of the French nobility. English hunting breeds reduced its numbers in the early 1900s, and a breed club was founded in 1921 to protect it.3 2 4

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its brown-and-grey coat with tan touches is traditionally described as "autumn leaves".2
2
The Épagneul Picard breed club dates from 1921.3
3
It works equally well in marshes and water as on dry land.3
4
Its roots include old French spaniels crossed with English and Gordon Setters.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from the Picardy region in northern France, where it was developed for hunting in the area's wooded and swampy terrain.3

Name ideas for your new friend

PoppyChampagnePicardWillowBriocheCloverAmelieRustyMeadowFleurDustyCoco

A day in the life told by a Picardy Spaniel

I woke to the smell of croissants and followed my human to the kitchen. After a quick pat, we set off across the dewy field. I flushed a pheasant from the tall grass and bounded after it, just for fun. We stopped by the stream; I waded in and lapped the cool water. Later, I napped on the sofa while the children read stories. In the evening, I rested my head on my human's knee, watching the firelight dance. A perfect day.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard No. 108, Group 7 (Pointing dogs), Section 1.2 Continental spaniel type; definitive acceptance 8 Dec 1954; working trial required1
UKC: Recognised 1 Jan 19964

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Picardy Spaniel. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 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

Picardy Spaniel tip

Picardy Spaniels are prone to putting on weight if overfed, so choose low-calorie treats and account for them in their daily ration. Because large breeds can have sensitive digestion, pick highly digestible, low-fat treats and avoid anything with lots of fermentable fibre.

Source: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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 Picardy Spaniel, and at what times?

Feed your Picardy Spaniel at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent times help digestion; check the food label and ask your vet for exact amounts.5

What should a Picardy Spaniel eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited to an active breed is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol; always consult your vet for a balanced diet.6

How often should I bathe a Picardy Spaniel?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, while general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or swims frequently.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Picardy Spaniel need brushing?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every two days, but weekly brushing is also fine for this wavy coat. More frequent brushing helps prevent mats, especially after outdoor adventures.2 3 7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Picardy Spaniel's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear clicking on the floor, about every 28 days per Furry Diary's plan. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick; ask your vet or groomer to show you if unsure.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Picardy Spaniel need?

Your Picardy Spaniel needs daily exercise to burn off energy. Long walks, swimming, or retrieving games are ideal; Furry Diary's plan recommends daily walks and play.2 3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Picardy Spaniel's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste; Furry Diary suggests daily brushing. Check and dry the floppy ears weekly, especially after swimming, and never insert anything into the ear canal.2 3 7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Picardy Spaniel live?

A Picardy Spaniel typically lives around 14 years. With good care, many enjoy a long, healthy life.3

Is a Picardy Spaniel good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Picardy Spaniel is calm, kind, and known for enjoying children. It is adaptable and generally gets along well with other pets, especially when raised together.2 4 3

Can a Picardy Spaniel be left alone?

Picardy Spaniels are very people-oriented and form close bonds, so they may struggle with long periods alone. It varies by individual; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice on your specific dog.

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.