French dog breeds are known for their diversity in coat colors, shapes, and sizes. Many are named after their geographic origins, such as the Briard and the Brittany. Each breed is unique and has its own characteristics. Let’s take a closer look at five of these fascinating breeds.
Briard
The Briard originates from the Brie region in northern France and is an old working breed used for both herding sheep and guarding against predators. This breed first came to the USA when Thomas Jefferson, after his time as ambassador to France, brought a pregnant Briard bitch with him.
Breed Characteristics:
- Size: 22-27 inches (shoulder height)
- Weight: 55-100 pounds
- Coat: Dense, often dark red or rust with black markings
- Temperament: Intelligent, quick-learning, protective of family, wary of strangers
Beauceron
The Beauceron, named after its region southwest of Paris, is known for protecting and herding livestock. This breed is versatile, used both as a guard dog and a working dog. Due to their red markings on their paws, they are sometimes called “Bas Rouge.”
Breed Characteristics:
- Size: 24-28 inches
- Weight: 70-110 pounds
- Coat: Black with red markings on face, ears, neck, and paws
- Temperament: Dominant, needs an experienced handler, but loyal, affectionate, and obedient with proper training
Brittany
The Épagneul Breton comes from the western region of France and is named after Brittany, a historical province on the Atlantic coast. These medium-sized hunting dogs are known for their endurance and versatility and can hunt almost any game bird. The Épagneul Breton was registered as Brittany Spaniel by the AKC in 1907 and renamed to simply Brittany in 1982.
Breed Characteristics:
- Size: 17-21 inches (shoulder height)
- Weight: 30-40 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth coat, mostly white with orange or brown markings
- Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, easy to train, excellent hunting skills
The Bordeaux Dog
The Bordeaux Dog is one of the oldest French dog breeds, existing even before the formation of France. Originally bred in two sizes – as war and fighting dogs – only the larger variant survived, later used as cattle drivers and guard dogs. This imposing breed gained fame when Tom Hanks starred in the 1989 film “Turner & Hooch.”
Breed Characteristics:
- Size: 23-27 inches (shoulder height)
- Weight: From 99 pounds, males often over 110 pounds
- Coat: Short, smooth coat, characterized by folds and heavy drooling
- Temperament: Devoted, needs clear leadership and training from a young age
Papillon
The Papillon, named after the French word for butterfly due to its butterfly-like ears, was once a companion of French nobility. This breed was often depicted in royal portraits by artists such as Rembrandt and Goya and was a favorite of Marie Antoinette and Louis XIV. The first Papillon was registered with the AKC in 1915.
Breed Characteristics:
- Size: 8-11 inches
- Weight: 5-10 pounds
- Coat: Fine, silky, short hair with distinctive butterfly-like ears
- Temperament: Playful, energetic, confident, sometimes overestimates its size
Conclusion
These five French dog breeds offer insight into the diversity and character of dogs from France. From working dogs to guard dogs, companions, and hunting dogs, each breed brings its unique qualities and rich history.
English 
Deutsch