French Spaniel
Description
The French Spaniel is the largest spaniel breed, weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, with a medium-length, smooth coat that often features roan or spotted brown and white patterns. This breed descends from medieval bird dogs and was nearly lost before a French priest revived it in the late 1800s. They move deliberately while hunting, a style that sets them apart from other spaniels. French Spaniels are gentle and friendly, making them great family companions who get along well with children and other pets. Their intelligence supports problem-solving and training, though they can show independence and benefit from consistent, positive reinforcement. They remain relatively rare outside France but are treasured there for both hunting and companionship. Bottom line: French Spaniels blend historic hunting skill with a calm, adaptable nature that suits active families.
Grooming
French Spaniels have a smooth, medium-length coat that sheds lightly to moderately, requiring weekly brushing with a rubber curry or bristle brush to keep it clean and healthy. Bathing every 4 to 8 weeks is sufficient; avoid frequent baths to protect natural oils. Nails should be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks, and ears cleaned monthly to prevent buildup. Their white and brown coat patterns don’t need special stain treatment but do benefit from regular brushing to maintain the roan and spotted markings' clarity. Pro tip: Use a damp cloth to spot-clean paws and face between baths to reduce dirt buildup. • Brush weekly with rubber curry or bristle brush • Bathe every 4–8 weeks, no more • Trim nails every 2–4 weeks • Clean ears monthly • Spot-clean as needed to maintain coat vibrancy
Learn the Smooth routine:
→ Complete Smooth Grooming Guide
Walking
French Spaniels need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their stamina and focus. Morning walks can be brisk and include scent games to engage their hunting instincts, while evening strolls should be more relaxed to help them wind down. This breed thrives on variety and mental stimulation during walks, so incorporating different routes or terrain keeps them interested and well-exercised. Example routine: - Morning: 50-minute walk with scent tracking and light jogging - Evening: 50-minute relaxed walk around the neighborhood Bottom line: Two daily walks totaling 100 minutes keep French Spaniels physically fit and mentally sharp.
Boarding
When boarding a French Spaniel, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to ensure enough room for comfort and movement. They enjoy active play sessions, so schedule two play blocks daily that include scent or brain games to replicate their natural hunting drive and keep boredom at bay. Staff should note their moderate barking level and gentle temperament, making them easy to handle but requiring consistent engagement. Enrichment activities tailored to their methodical nature help reduce stress and maintain well-being during their stay. Bottom line: Proper crate size plus structured play and mental challenges make boarding smooth and enjoyable for French Spaniels.