Pont-Audemer Spaniel
Description
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a rare French breed with a history rooted in waterfowl hunting. It features a medium-sized, sturdy frame weighing between 33 and 48 pounds, built for endurance and agility in marshy terrain. Its dense, curly coat in brown and white patches is unique among spaniels, often described as goat-like in texture. This breed is friendly and adaptable, thriving in homes where it receives plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Known for its playful nature, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel bonds closely with family members and enjoys interactive training sessions. While it has a strong retrieving instinct, it also relaxes well indoors when given enough exercise.
Grooming
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel’s medium-length, dense, curly coat requires consistent care to stay healthy and mat-free. Brush your dog at least three times a week to prevent tangles and remove loose hair, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. An undercoat rake is essential to clear dead hair beneath the top coat, which helps reduce shedding around the house. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat clean; use a blow dryer afterward to thoroughly dry and help loosen dead hair. The breed’s brown and white patched coat can show dirt easily, so spot cleaning may be needed between baths. Check ears regularly, as their floppy shape can trap moisture. - Brush 3× weekly, more in shed seasons - Use undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, blow-dry after - Inspect ears weekly for cleanliness Pro tip: Regular blow-drying after baths helps maintain the coat’s curly texture and reduces matting.
Learn the Dense routine:
→ Complete Dense Grooming Guide
Walking
Pont-Audemer Spaniels need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their energy and barking tendencies. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to burn off energy, while evening walks offer a chance for sniffing and mental stimulation. This breed benefits from varied routes and opportunities to retrieve or explore water when possible. Example routine: - Morning: 45 minutes brisk walk with fetch - Evening: 40 minutes relaxed walk with scent games Keep sessions engaging and consistent to prevent boredom and excessive barking.
Boarding
When boarding a Pont-Audemer Spaniel, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate their medium build comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily, incorporating scent work or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should be aware of the breed’s vocal nature and provide positive reinforcement to manage barking. Enrichment is key: interactive toys and short training exercises help reduce stress and maintain good behavior. Given their social and affectionate temperament, they respond well to gentle handling and consistent routines during their stay. Ensure the environment offers both quiet rest areas and space for active play to balance their needs.