The Auvergne Pointing Dog, also known as Bleu dAuvergne, is native from France, from the Auvegne region, from where it gets its name. Although its exact origins are a mystery, it is generally believed that this breed has descended from the dogs imported by the Knights of Malta, or the Knights Templar. Another belief is that the Bleu dAuvergne is a descendent of the French Pointing Dog, with a splash of English Pointer blood.
With long, broad head and long, curled ears, low set, well framing the head, and a well-built body with a well let-down chest, a slightly arched and short loin, a bony and minimally sloping croup, the Auvergne Pointing Dog is best known for its incredible speed, hardiness and energy. It is a very active dog, with well muscled, strong thighs and forelegs, and needs long daily walks and large spaces where he can run and get rid of all the extra energy. Also, due to its long ears, it will need daily checking, as it is predisposed to ear infection.
Its fairly straight and long nosebridge gives it the abilities of an excellent retriever and a great pointer. It makes a very good pet, as well as hunter, and it is excellent around children. The dog can adapt well to a city life, and can be kept inside an apartment, as long as it gets to have enough exercise. It loves to play and run; at work, it is very energetic, and at home it is very docile and affectionate. However, this dog requires quite a lot of attention, being entirely dependent on people.
Generally, the hair of an Auvergne Pointing Dog is quite fine, never harsh, glossy and short. It does not require daily brushing - only occasionally - and it should be washed only when really necessary. The coat is white with black, with dark smoky blotches, and many spots. The head usually has regular black markings, blue or white flares. Both eyes are surrounded by black spots.
The life expectancy for a Bleu dAuvergne is around 12 or 13 years. This dog breed can reach 25 kilograms (up to 55 lbs), and 63 centimeters in height. This breed, like many others, can be prone to hip dysplasia - otherwise, the general state of health is excellent.
An advice for any owner is to start training this dog early on. Though it can learn very fast and easily, at times it can be quite stubborn. Kind, but firm methods are best to be used when training an Auvergne Pointing Dog. Obedience training is also advisable. If it is properly trained, this dog can perform excellent in competitions.
This dog makes a great companion and an excellent children watchdog. You can use it in competitions, as it is most likely to win in front of any other breed. It is also very friendly to other dogs or pets, if they are raised together, from “puppyhood”.
If you want a protective, playful, docile and affectionate pet, the best choice you can make is to become the owner of an Auvergne Pointing Dog, as long as you have enough time to spend with it, since it does require quite a bit of attention from your part.
