Billy
Description
The Billy is a large, straight-coated hound that hails from France, originally bred for hunting large game like deer and wild boar. This breed carries a rich history, tracing back to Gaston Hublot du Rivault in the 19th century, and is known for its distinctive pure white or milk-coffee white coat, sometimes marked with light orange or lemon patches. They weigh between 52 and 70 pounds, making them a solid, muscular dog built for endurance. Billys are vocal and lively, often expressing themselves with a characteristic bay. They thrive in homes where they can be part of a pack, enjoying the company of other dogs and people alike. Their strong prey drive means they might not be the best fit for households with smaller pets, but with consistent training and socialization, they become loyal and obedient companions.
Grooming
The Billy’s short, double coat demands regular attention to keep it healthy and looking its best. Brushing twice a week is essential, but during the heavy shedding seasons of spring and fall, daily brushing with an undercoat rake will help manage loose fur and prevent matting. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, ensuring you dry the coat thoroughly to avoid dampness that can cause skin issues. Key grooming points: - Brush 2× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake on dense areas - Bathe every 6–8 weeks with thorough drying - Avoid shaving the double coat to protect its natural insulation - Watch for staining on white or light patches, especially around eyes and mouth Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6–8 weeks to keep the undercoat manageable and reduce seasonal hair loss significantly.
Learn the Straight routine:
→ Complete Straight Grooming Guide
Walking
Billys need about 100 minutes of exercise daily, split into two sessions to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. Their hunting background means they enjoy exploring scents and tracking, so walks that include varied terrain and opportunities to sniff are ideal. A consistent routine helps manage their vocal tendencies and keeps their energy channeled positively. Example routine: Morning: 50-minute brisk walk with scent games included Evening: 50-minute moderate walk focusing on obedience and socialization Incorporate off-leash time in a secure area if possible, as this breed thrives on freedom to roam and follow their nose, but always under control to prevent chasing smaller animals.
Boarding
When boarding a Billy, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their large frame comfortably. Their playful and social nature means they benefit from two active play sessions daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys to prevent accidental ingestion or frustration due to their strong prey drive. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and predictably to build trust, as sudden changes can unsettle this breed. Secure fencing is a must to prevent escapes during outdoor play. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule with clear expectations helps reduce stress and keeps the Billy happy and engaged while away from home.