Picardy Spaniel
Description
The Picardy Spaniel is a sturdy French gun dog with roots dating back to the 14th century. Known for its medium-sized, wavy, and dense coat, this breed sports a distinctive brown roan color with white speckles and brown and tan patches. It was bred to work in marshy and wooded terrain, excelling at flushing and retrieving game. This history gives the Picardy Spaniel a natural affinity for water and rough ground. Friendly and affectionate, Picardy Spaniels bond closely with their families. They have a strong hunting drive that demands consistent mental and physical challenges. Early socialization is key, as their instinct to chase can lead to boisterous behavior around small animals. With proper guidance, they become well-mannered companions who enjoy active family life and outdoor adventures.
Grooming
The Picardy Spaniel's medium-length double coat requires regular upkeep to stay healthy and functional. Brush the coat three times a week to prevent mats and tangles, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Use an undercoat rake to remove loose fur and reduce shedding around the house. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps keep the coat clean but avoid over-bathing to maintain natural oils. Blow-drying after baths is recommended to thoroughly dry the dense undercoat and prevent dampness-related skin issues. Pay special attention to the ears, which can trap moisture and debris due to their floppy nature. Check and clean them weekly. The breed’s brown roan coat with white speckles can show dirt easily, so spot cleaning may be needed after outdoor activities. - Brush 3× weekly; more in shedding seasons - Use undercoat rake regularly - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry thoroughly after baths - Clean ears weekly Pro tip: Regular blow-drying after baths helps reduce seasonal shedding significantly.
Learn the Wavy routine:
→ Complete Wavy Grooming Guide
Walking
Picardy Spaniels need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Morning walks can be brisk and energetic, helping burn off early-day excitement. Evening walks should be a bit slower, allowing your dog to wind down while still getting physical exercise. This breed thrives on varied routes that include some off-leash time in safe, enclosed areas where they can sniff and explore. Example routine: Morning: 50 minutes brisk walk with fetch breaks Evening: 50 minutes relaxed stroll with scent games Keep sessions consistent but flexible to match your dog’s mood and weather conditions.
Boarding
When boarding a Picardy Spaniel, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium build comfortably. They enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should be prepared for a vocal dog, as this breed tends to bark more than average, especially when excited or alert. Their social nature means they benefit from regular interaction with people and other dogs, but supervision is important due to their hunting instincts. Enrichment items like puzzle feeders and scent trails help reduce stress and prevent boredom during their stay. Staff should note the dog’s energy bursts and adjust playtime accordingly to avoid overexertion or restlessness.