Ariege Pointer
Description
The Ariège Pointer, or Braque d'Ariège, is a rare French hunting dog with a sleek, short coat that shines in pale orange fawn or mottled brown. This breed was developed in the rugged Ariège region by crossing old Braque Français and local hounds, creating a dog with a keen nose and natural pointing ability. They weigh between 55 and 66 pounds, built for endurance and precision in the field. Despite their hunting roots, Ariège Pointers are calm and friendly companions at home. They bond closely with their families and adapt well to children and other pets, though they can be reserved around strangers. Their moderate barking suits a quieter household, but they do need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay balanced.
Grooming
The Ariège Pointer sports a tight, shiny double coat that’s short but dense, requiring regular care to keep it healthy and looking its best. Shedding is heavy during spring and fall, so expect to brush more frequently then. At home, brushing twice a week is enough, but daily brushing is necessary during seasonal sheds to manage loose undercoat. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to prevent matting and remove dead hair effectively. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, making sure to dry thoroughly to avoid skin issues. Avoid shaving the coat, as it protects the dog from weather and insects. Color care is straightforward, but mottled patterns can show dirt easily, so regular wiping after outdoor time helps. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks with a de-shed package will keep the coat sleek and healthy. - Brush 2× weekly; daily in heavy shedding - Use undercoat rake on thick spots - Bathe every 6–8 weeks; dry completely - Avoid shaving the double coat Pro tip: Use a rubber curry brush before bathing to loosen dead hair and stimulate natural oils.
Learn the Tight routine:
→ Complete Tight Grooming Guide
Walking
Ariège Pointers require about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and prevent restlessness. Their hunting background means they love to sniff and explore, so incorporating scent work during walks can satisfy their natural instincts. One session in the morning can be a brisk 40-minute walk with some off-leash time in a secure area, allowing them to stretch their legs and track scents. The evening session might be a calmer 60-minute stroll, focusing on leash manners and socialization. Example routine: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk + off-leash scent games - Evening: 60 minutes relaxed walk with training cues Consistency is key. Without enough exercise, these dogs can become bored and vocal, so regular, varied walks help maintain their calm demeanor indoors.
Boarding
When boarding an Ariège Pointer, a crate size of 42 to 48 inches is appropriate to provide ample room for comfort and movement. These dogs thrive with active play blocks, so staff should plan at least two daily sessions involving fetch, running, or agility to burn off energy. Enrichment through scent and brain games is essential to keep their minds sharp and reduce stress. Avoid small-animal toys as their strong prey drive can cause frustration, and ensure fencing is secure to prevent escapes. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and predictably, as Ariège Pointers can be reserved with new people. Maintaining a consistent daily routine helps them settle quickly and feel secure. Their moderate barking means noise levels should be manageable, but attention to socialization and mental stimulation is crucial for a positive boarding experience.