Petit Bleu De Gascogne

General Information

Physical And Size

Ranking

Characterisitics

Friendliness

The Petit Bleu De Gascogne is among the scenthound types that originated as a hunting dog for smaller games. They were bred to hunt small animals like a hare and a rabbit rather than wild boar or deer. These breeds have great scent ability and utilize it for miles. In addition, they are used in the pack to hunt instead of working alone.

They are smaller versions of Grand Bleu de Gascogne and are very familiar with them. The only difference is in their size as the overall personality and appearance match one another. They aren’t supposed to be the substitute for Grand Bleu de Gascogne instead got used along with the big ones.

Origin and History

The Petit Bleu De Gascogne were bred as French hunters who wanted small hunting dogs to pursue smaller games. Around the 1500s, this breed was created by searching for the smallest Grand Bleu de Gasc and breeding the same kind accordingly. After some generations, they rose to popularity among rabbit hunters. However, they weren’t as economical as their larger relative so their popularity was limited at that time.

Even after two world wars and the French Revolution, they survived because of their rabbit-hunting ability. In the late 1700s, they made it to the USA where they saw a significant rise in their numbers. After that, their demand increased outside their home country outranking Grand Bleu de Gasc. As for now, these breeds are more popular in France and are known as rare breeds outside that region.

Behavior Traits of Petit Bleu De Gascogne

Talking about Petit Bleu De Gascogne, they are calm, obedient, friendly, loyal, and affectionate. They always show their true feeling to anyone without being shy or aggressive. These breeds are well-temperaments that do well in the field and house as well. Therefore, they have transitioned from hunting dogs to home dog well-being companions of many families.

As a scenthound, they must be engaged in different tasks otherwise they tend to search for their task and can be destructive. At home, they are a relaxed breed that loves to be around their loved ones and kinda seek attention and affection from them.

So, as a result, they can suffer from separation anxiety, frustration, and loneliness if they don’t get care or attention from their beloved. As a friendly breed, they don’t mind being with strangers so, that doesn’t make good watchdogs at home. However, they have intimating bark if they sense any danger.

Trainability

The Petit Bleu De Gascogne is a highly intelligent breed but it can be a little challenging to train. They are strong-willed and need an experienced trainer. In addition, the owner must be firm and consistent while training using positive reinforcement to keep them on your side.

Like Grand Bleu De Gascogne, the smaller ones are not fast hunters but are very determined and motivated. They soak up commands and tasks easily so, start early training as well as socialization to avoid bad behaviors while growing. Engage them in scent-based training and games for their mental and physical enhancement. With proper training, they do well during walks and runs with family members.

Is Petit Bleu De Gascogne Child-Friendly?

With children, the Petit Bleu De Gascogne is friendly and patient and loves to play and be around them. However, they should be properly trained and socialized to avoid further issues. In addition, they must be supervised during playtime and teach them how to behave or act around kids.

Likewise, educate your kids as well so they don’t make them aggressive. While playing kids might pull their ears or tail which can make them violent.

Health Issues

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This issue is mostly caused due to heredity where the joints are not built properly. As they grow, the hip and elbow joints begin to wear down leading to pain and dysfunction. You can see symptoms like difficulty during their walking, run, and bunny hopping. If any symptoms are seen take them to the vet for a proper checkup before it’s too late.

Ear Infection: Dogs with long ears are most likely to have an ear infection. As the Petit Bleu De Gascogne loves to be outdoors often they develop ear infections easily. Also, they can get ear infections from wet ears from swimming so make sure you dry them. Symptoms like ear scratching, shaking, and whining can be seen during ear infections.

Facts

• The word “Petit” means small in France so as a small game hunter they are named after it.
• In 1991, the United Kennel Club recognized this breed while the Federation Cynologique Internationale breed recognized it in 1996.

Color

• Black
• White
• Blue

Size

Height: The male Petit Bleu De Gascogne stands 22-24 inches tall while the female stands 20-22 inches. Weight: 40-48 lbs

Weight: On average the Petit Bleu De Gascogne weighs around 40-48 lbs.

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