Ariegois (dog)

Count Élie de Vézins is the instigator of the breed which would result from a cross between hounds and indigenous briquets and a dog of order such as the Grand Bleu de Gascogne or the Grand Gascon Saintongeois. The breed is present in the south of France and more particularly in the Ariège.

The FCI standard describes the breed as applied, gay and sociable. The Ariégeois is calm, affectionate, intelligent and easy to train. This breed is made to live in the countryside and hunt, city life is not recommended for the Ariégeois. It appreciates children and other dogs. Education should be conducted from the earliest age with great gentleness to socialize it.

The Ariégeois is a medium-sized hound dog, built for hunting and with a light and elegant gait. The well-attached tail is thin at its tip and reaches the point of the hock. It is carried in a saber blade. The skull is of medium width with a slightly marked occipital bump. The muzzle is slightly curved and the same length as the skull. The fine, flexible ears are slightly curled and reach the nostrils. The ear attachment is located just below the eye line. The eyes are brown and wide open. The coat is short, fine and tight. The coat is white with black patches with well-defined outlines and sometimes speckled. Pale tan markings are present on the cheeks and above the eyes.

Like all dogs, you will need to check your dog's ears every week. If you notice they are dirty, wipe them with a ball of cotton moistened with a cleanser recommended by your veterinarian. Brush your dog's teeth regularly to maintain good dental hygiene, ideally two to three times a week. If your dog does not have his nails naturally shortened (you will hear them click on the ground if they are too long), cut them once or twice a month.