Artois Hound Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you thinking about adding an Artois Hound to your family? If you’re looking for a loyal and active companion, this breed might be the perfect fit for you. Known for their hunting abilities, Artois Hounds are also known for their affectionate and playful personalities. They make great pets for families who enjoy spending time outdoors and want a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Before making a decision, it’s important to learn more about the breed’s characteristics and needs to ensure that they are a good fit for your lifestyle and home environment.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: France
Average Size:53-63 cm
Average Weight:25-30 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Artois Hound, also known as the Chien d’Artois, is a breed of dog that originated in the Artois region of France. This breed is a descendant of the old French hounds that were used for hunting in the Middle Ages. The Artois Hound was specifically bred for hunting small game, such as rabbits and hares, and was highly valued for its keen sense of smell and its ability to track prey.

The Artois Hound is a medium-sized dog that is muscular and athletic. It has a short, dense coat that is usually white with black or tan markings. The breed is known for its long, droopy ears and its expressive, intelligent eyes. The Artois Hound is a friendly and loyal dog that makes an excellent companion for families and hunters alike.

The history of the Artois Hound can be traced back to the 16th century, when French nobles began breeding hounds for hunting. The Artois Hound was developed in the Artois region of France, which is located in the northern part of the country. The breed was highly prized for its hunting abilities and was used by French nobles to hunt small game.

During the French Revolution, many of the French nobles who owned Artois Hounds were killed or forced to flee the country. As a result, the breed nearly became extinct. However, a few dedicated breeders managed to keep the breed alive by breeding the remaining dogs with other breeds of hounds.

In the 19th century, the Artois Hound was officially recognized as a breed by the French Kennel Club. The breed was also exported to other countries, including the United Kingdom, where it became popular with hunters. Today, the Artois Hound is still used for hunting in France and other countries, but it is also kept as a companion dog by many families.

In conclusion, the Artois Hound is a breed of dog that has a rich history and a strong connection to the French nobility. Despite nearly becoming extinct during the French Revolution, the breed has managed to survive and thrive thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders. Today, the Artois Hound is a beloved companion and hunting dog that is valued for its intelligence, loyalty, and hunting abilities.

Size and Breed Category

The Artois Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog that originated in France. They are classified as a scent hound and were originally bred for hunting game such as wild boar and deer. The breed is known for its strong sense of smell and its ability to track scents over long distances. Artois Hounds have a muscular build and a short, dense coat that is typically black and tan in color. They have long, droopy ears and a long, narrow snout that helps them pick up scents. Artois Hounds are known for their stamina and endurance, making them well-suited for long hunts in difficult terrain.

In terms of size, the Artois Hound typically stands between 20 and 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 55 and 65 pounds. They are considered a medium-sized breed, falling somewhere between small breeds like the Beagle and larger breeds like the Bloodhound. Artois Hounds are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, and they make excellent family pets for those who have the space and time to devote to their exercise and training needs. While they were originally bred for hunting, they can adapt well to life as a companion animal as long as they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Artois Hound is short and dense, providing excellent protection against the harsh weather conditions of its native region. The coat is typically tricolour, with a black base and white and tan markings. The black fur is usually found on the back, ears, and tail, while the white and tan markings are present on the face, chest, and legs. The fur on the ears is often longer and softer than the rest of the coat, giving them a distinctive appearance. The Artois Hound’s fur is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming, making it an ideal breed for those who prefer low-maintenance pets.

The Artois Hound’s coat colour is an important characteristic of the breed, as it helps hunters to identify them in the field. The tricolour pattern is a result of selective breeding, with breeders aiming to produce dogs with a distinctive and easily recognisable coat. The black fur provides excellent camouflage in the forest, while the white and tan markings make it easier for hunters to spot the dog from a distance. The coat colour of the Artois Hound is an important aspect of the breed’s history and evolution, and it continues to be a defining characteristic of the breed today.

Termperament and Trainability

Artois Hounds are known for their lively and energetic temperament. They are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs are very social and enjoy being around people and other animals. They are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. Artois Hounds are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn new things. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. However, they can be stubborn at times, so it is important to be patient and consistent when training them. Overall, Artois Hounds make great companions for active families who are willing to provide them with plenty of exercise and attention.

When it comes to trainability, Artois Hounds are known for their strong hunting instincts. They were originally bred for hunting small game, such as rabbits and hares, and have a natural ability to track scents. This means that they can be easily distracted by interesting smells and may have a tendency to wander off if not properly trained. However, with the right training and socialization, Artois Hounds can make excellent family pets. They are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. It is important to start training them at a young age and to be consistent with your training methods. With patience and dedication, Artois Hounds can become well-behaved and obedient companions.

Known Health Conditions

Artois Hounds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking, and may require surgery to correct. Another condition that Artois Hounds may develop is ear infections, which can be caused by their long, floppy ears that trap moisture and bacteria. Regular cleaning and grooming can help prevent these infections.

In addition to hip dysplasia and ear infections, Artois Hounds may also be at risk for bloat, a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. Artois Hounds may also develop skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. These allergies may be triggered by food, environmental factors, or parasites, and may require medication or dietary changes to manage. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential health issues and to work closely with their veterinarian to keep their Artois Hound healthy and happy.

Openness to Strangers

Artois Hounds are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This trait makes them excellent companions for families with children or those who frequently have guests over. Artois Hounds are not shy or reserved when it comes to meeting new people, and they will often approach strangers with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. They are also known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners, which makes them excellent watchdogs. Despite their friendly nature, Artois Hounds are still protective of their families and will not hesitate to defend them if necessary.

In addition to their openness to strangers, Artois Hounds are also known for their high energy levels and love of exercise. They are a breed that requires plenty of physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Artois Hounds are excellent runners and love to play games like fetch or frisbee. They also enjoy going on long walks or hikes with their owners. Due to their high energy levels, Artois Hounds are not well-suited for apartment living and require a large yard or outdoor space to run and play. However, with proper exercise and training, they can make excellent pets for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Playfulness Level

The Artois Hound is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog that loves to run and play. They have a natural curiosity and are always eager to explore their surroundings. This breed is known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s playing fetch, chasing after a ball, or simply running around in circles, the Artois Hound is always up for a good time. They are also very social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs.

The Playfulness Level of the Artois Hound is one of their most endearing qualities. They are always eager to play and are never too tired to have fun. This breed is perfect for families with children or active individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. The Artois Hound is a great companion for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and are looking for a dog that can keep up with them. With their playful nature and boundless energy, the Artois Hound is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Artois Hounds are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are also highly energetic and love to play, which can provide a great source of entertainment for kids. However, their high energy levels mean that they require plenty of exercise and stimulation, so they may not be suitable for families who are unable to provide this. Additionally, Artois Hounds have a strong prey drive and may be inclined to chase smaller animals, so it is important to supervise them around other pets.

Exercise Needs

Artois Hounds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least an hour of daily exercise, which can be achieved through long walks, runs, or playtime in a secure, fenced area. These dogs have a high energy level and enjoy activities that challenge their agility and endurance, such as hiking, tracking, and obedience training. It is important to note that Artois Hounds have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals, so they should always be kept on a leash or in a secure area.

In addition to physical exercise, Artois Hounds also benefit from mental stimulation. These dogs are intelligent and curious, and they enjoy activities that engage their minds, such as puzzle toys, scent work, and obedience training. Training sessions should be short and positive, using rewards-based methods to reinforce good behavior. Artois Hounds thrive on human interaction and should not be left alone for long periods of time. They make excellent companions for active families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and attention.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Artois Hounds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets in the household. They are known to get along well with cats and other dogs, as long as they are socialized properly from a young age. It is important to supervise interactions between pets, especially during the initial introduction period. Artois Hounds have a strong prey drive, so it is important to ensure that smaller pets, such as rabbits or guinea pigs, are kept in a secure area away from the dog. Overall, Artois Hounds can coexist peacefully with other pets if introduced and trained properly.

Housing Requirements

Artois Hounds require a spacious and comfortable living environment that can accommodate their active and energetic nature. They need a home with a large yard or garden where they can run and play freely. The yard should be securely fenced to prevent them from escaping and getting lost. Artois Hounds are known for their strong hunting instincts, so it is important to ensure that the yard is free from any potential hazards or escape routes. Additionally, they require a warm and cozy indoor space where they can rest and relax after a long day of play. The indoor space should be well-ventilated and have enough room for them to move around comfortably.

Artois Hounds have a short and dense coat that requires minimal grooming. However, they shed moderately throughout the year, so it is important to have a regular cleaning routine to keep their living environment clean and hygienic. They are social animals and thrive on human companionship, so it is important to provide them with plenty of attention and interaction. Artois Hounds are intelligent and trainable, so they benefit from regular exercise and mental stimulation. A daily walk or run is essential to keep them physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy playing games and participating in activities that challenge their hunting instincts.

Summary

The Artois Hound is a popular choice for pet owners due to their friendly and loyal nature. They are known for their high energy levels and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. With proper training and socialization, they can make great family pets and are particularly good with children. However, their strong hunting instincts mean that they may not be suitable for households with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. Overall, the Artois Hound can make a wonderful companion for those who are willing to provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

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