21 Breeds Of French Dogs Breeds That Charm The World
French dogs, oh la la! Breeds like the French Bulldog and Bichon Frise are just a couple of French dogs that capture hearts worldwide with their distinctive charm. It’s always a joy exploring what makes each French breed so special.
21 Breeds of French Dogs to Love
From the charmingly regal to the playfully petite, French dog breeds offer a wide variety of sizes, appearances, and temperaments. As rich and diverse as the French culture itself, these breeds have distinct personalities and histories, shaping them into the remarkable dogs we know and love today. From hunting dogs to companion animals, and even some that double as both, each French breed has its unique qualities. Now, let’s embark on our journey through the fascinating world of French dog breeds, discovering 21 of these beautiful canines.
1. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds, originally bred in France for hunting small game, are easily recognizable by their droopy ears and sorrowful eyes. This breed is known for its excellent scent tracking abilities, second only to the Bloodhound.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 40-65 lbs |
| Height | 12-15 inches |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Body Type | Long/Short Legs |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
2. Beauceron
The Beauceron, an ancient French dog breed, is an intelligent and versatile working dog. These dogs were developed as herd protectors and are still popular in that role in their native region of France.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 70-110 lbs |
| Height | 24-27.5 inches |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Body Type | Muscular |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
3. Berger Picard
The Berger Picard is a rare breed of French Sheepdogs known for their erect ears and lively personality. Originating from the Picardy region in Northern France, this breed is one of the oldest French shepherd dogs.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Weight | 50-70 lbs |
| Height | 21.5-25.5 inches |
| Coat Type | Dense, Wiry |
| Body Type | Muscular, Long-Legged |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-14 years |
4. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd or “Berger de Pyrenees” is a small, highly energetic breed used for herding livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains between France and Spain.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small-Medium |
| Weight | 15-30 lbs |
| Height | 15-21 inches |
| Coat Type | Medium-Long |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Avg. Life Span | 15-17 years |
5. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise, meaning ‘curly lap dog’ in French, was a favorite among French nobility. This little dog breed, with a white coat and playful demeanor, makes a great companion dog.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 10-20 lbs |
| Height | 9.5-11.5 inches |
| Coat Type | Curly |
| Body Type | Compact |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-15 years |
6. Bloodhound
This ancient French dog breed, known as the sleuth in the Middle Ages, is a formidable scent tracker used in search and rescue operations and law enforcement.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 80-110 lbs |
| Height | 23-27 inches |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Body Type | Muscular, Long Body |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
7. Bordeaux Mastiff (Dogue de Bordeaux)
The Dogue de Bordeaux, a large and powerful breed, was once used as a guard dog in the home and for hunting large game. This French Mastiff breed gained popularity outside of France with its appearance in Hollywood films.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 120-140 lbs |
| Height | 23-27 inches |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Body Type | Muscular, Powerful |
| Avg. Life Span | 5-8 years |
8. Briard
Originally bred as a herding dog, the Briard was known as a hardworking farm dog. During the French Revolution, they also served as war dogs in the French Army.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 70-90 lbs |
| Height | 22-27 inches |
| Coat Type | Long, Double coat |
| Body Type | Athletic, Long body |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
9. Brittany Spaniel
Brittany Spaniels are popular hunting dogs, renowned for their agility and keen nose. They have a friendly and intelligent nature, which also makes them an excellent family dog.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 30-40 lbs |
| Height | 17.5-20.5 inches |
| Coat Type | Dense, Wavy |
| Body Type | Compact, Athletic |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-14 years |
10. Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are known for their relaxed and affectionate nature. These dogs, developed for hunting, have a strong sense of smell and are excellent retrievers.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 55-85 lbs |
| Height | 17-20 inches |
| Coat Type | Dense, Straight |
| Body Type | Muscular, Long body |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
11. French Bulldog
When you think of French dogs, the French Bulldog probably comes to mind first. These charming dogs with their distinct bat ears are loved for their affectionate and friendly nature. They are among the most popular breeds in the United States.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 16-28 lbs |
| Height | 11-12 inches |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Body Type | Compact, Muscular |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
12. Great Pyrenees
Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, the Great Pyrenees is a large, calm, and well-mannered breed. They were used to guard livestock and are still popular as a family dog and working dog.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Giant |
| Weight | 85-100 lbs (females), 100-160 lbs (males) |
| Height | 25-32 inches |
| Coat Type | Thick, Double |
| Body Type | Powerful, Strong-Boned |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
13. Lowchen
The Lowchen, meaning ‘little lion’ in German, is a small breed that was a favorite among European nobility. Despite the German name, this breed was developed across Europe, including France.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 12-18 lbs |
| Height | 12-14 inches |
| Coat Type | Long, Silky |
| Body Type | Compact |
| Avg. Life Span | 13-15 years |
14. Papillon
Papillons, named after the French word for ‘butterfly’ due to their butterfly-like ears, are friendly and intelligent. They were a court favorite among French royalty.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 5-10 lbs |
| Height | 8-11 inches |
| Coat Type | Long, Silky |
| Body Type | Fine-Boned |
| Avg. Life Span | 14-16 years |
15. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
This adorable French breed is known for its happy-go-lucky nature. Bred to hunt small game, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are energetic, intelligent, and friendly.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Weight | 25-35 lbs |
| Height | 13-15 inches |
| Coat Type | Dense, Rough |
| Body Type | Compact, Low to the ground |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-14 years |
16. Porcelaine
The Porcelaine, also known as the Chien de Franche-Comté, is a hound breed known for its stunning white coat, reminiscent of porcelain. It’s one of the oldest French scent hounds.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 55-62 lbs |
| Height | 21-23 inches |
| Coat Type | Short, Fine |
| Body Type | Athletic, Lean |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-14 years |
17. Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
The Poodle, in all its sizes, is a breed synonymous with elegance and intelligence. They were bred for various purposes, including retrieving waterfowl, and have excelled in dog sports.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Varies (Standard is Large, Miniature is Medium, Toy is Small) |
| Weight | Varies (Standard 40-70 lbs, Miniature 10-15 lbs, Toy 4-6 lbs) |
| Height | Varies (Standard over 15 inches, Miniature 11-15 inches, Toy under 10 inches) |
| Coat Type | Curly |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Avg. Life Span | Varies (Standard 12-15 years, Miniature and Toy 10-18 years) |
18. Pyrenean Mastiff
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large dog breed native to the Pyrenees Mountains. They were used to protect livestock from predators and are known for their gentle nature.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Giant |
| Weight | 120-220 lbs |
| Height | 25-32 inches |
| Coat Type | Dense, Medium-Length |
| Body Type | Powerful, Muscular |
| Avg. Life Span | 10-12 years |
19. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd is an energetic breed, known for its speed and agility. These herding dogs are devoted and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 15-32 lbs |
| Height | 15-20.5 inches |
| Coat Type | Medium-Length, Rough or Smooth |
| Body Type | Athletic, Lean |
| Avg. Life Span | 15-17 years |
20. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards, one of the largest dog breeds in the world, are known for their heroic search and rescue work in the Swiss Alps. They are gentle, patient, and make great family pets.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Giant |
| Weight | 140-180 lbs |
| Height | 26-30 inches |
| Coat Type | Thick, Short or Medium-Length |
| Body Type | Powerful, Muscular |
| Avg. Life Span | 8-10 years |
21. Beagle Harrier
The Beagle Harrier, a breed developed in France for hunting, is a medium-sized hound. They are known for their stamina and keen sense of smell.
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 35-45 lbs |
| Height | 18-20 inches |
| Coat Type | Short, Dense |
| Body Type | Compact, Athletic |
| Avg. Life Span | 12-14 years |
Chunk Size: 2000
Conclusion
In a nutshell, French dogs have undoubtedly captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. With their unique characteristics, charming personalities, and rich history, these breeds are a treasure trove of canine companionship. Whether you’re looking for a loyal guardian, a playful companion, or a stylish four-legged friend, the 21 breeds of French dogs offer a plethora of options to match your lifestyle and preferences. From the elegant and regal French Bulldog to the energetic and intelligent Papillon, there is a French breed for every dog lover. These breeds not only bring joy and happiness but also exhibit a sense of pride for their French heritage. Their distinctive features and allure make them stand out from the crowd, turning heads wherever they go.
Furthermore, the popularity of French dogs has skyrocketed in recent years, with their adorable looks and endearing personalities captivating people all around the globe. Their versatility and adaptability also make them excellent companions for families, individuals, and even celebrities.
In essence, French dogs are living proof that beauty, elegance, and charm can come in all shapes and sizes. So, if you are searching for a delightful, lovable, and utterly captivating furry friend, look no further than the diverse and enchanting world of French dog breeds.
