The French Tricolour Hound or Chien Français Tricolore is a breed of dogs used mainly for hunting large prey such as deer, boar or fox. They were bred to track a slight scent and to run for hours without pause. In addition to these dogs' agility, the breeders paid close attention to looks as well. They had to be charming not only individually, but also as a pack.
This rare breed includes large dogs trained mainly for hunting animals; these are not companion pets or show dogs. The French Tricolour Hound is an elegant, athletic dog with an elongated head, well boned face and long drop ears. Its arched muzzle and black nose have open nostrils that are always prepared to scent tracks. The eyes are big, round and dark and express agility and naughtiness.
The strong, muscular body, deep chest and long legs turn this dog into a running machine. Its constitution ensures a regulate breathing and gathers stocks of energy that feed the body constantly. The long tail serves to maintain its equilibrium when changing direction. Its short, dense and fine coat helps it reaching high speed. The color of its coat is divided into 3 parts of different colors such as black, tan and white. Its height is 24-28 inches (60-72 cm) and weigh between 76-78 pounds (34.5- 35.5 kg)
This is an active breed which dedicates its entire time and energy to hunting and working. Although it is loyal to its family, this dog does much better with its pack. However, if the owner has no possibility of lodging an entire pack, he must offer it early training. It is important to keep in mind that this dog needs proper socialization so it can remain healthy. Its innate instinct is to be guided along its pack, and it needs canine companionship. But it can also do well with other animals, such as horses.
Its overflowing energy can easily stimulate a person if the conditions are suitable, but in other cases it can be negative for both the owner and the dog. Moreover, the owner must display leadership skills towards the dog so that he can be obeyed. This is not an apartment dog, mostly because it is hyperactive. Instead, it needs a lot of space for practicing rigorous and dynamic exercises. These working dogs do not adapt pretty well to the city life, because they cannot control their hunting instinct.
Their health is stable and they do not show any particular issues. Grooming is minimal, it only needs occasional brushing to remove the dead hair. Just like in the other cases of hounds, the ears must be constantly supervised and kept clean.
In the end, the French Tricolour Hound is not suited for any kind of person, because it must be kept in a continuous activity if not in a proper pack; the ideal owner is anybody who has an active life and a lot of space, perhaps a farm.
