The Briquet de Provence is a scenthound from France, and this rare breed is recognized by the French Kennel Club and nowhere else. While its origins are unknown, some speculate that the breed came about by crossing the Italian Hound with the Petit Bleu de Gascogne. In the early 1900’s the breed was semi-popular however World War 2 caused a great drop in numbers that unfortunately has never recovered. It took until 2003 for a parent club to become organized yet even today the breed is extremely limited with only about one or two litter registered a year.
The Provence is a durable hound that can hunt and take down game as large as a wild boar. It’s no surprise that members of the breed are brave and courageous when they need to be, however when at home they are affectionate, gentle, and devoted to their owners including children. Like other scenthounds they have a loud and distinctive bay that they use primarily when hunting, and they also share the scenthound-trait of getting along with other dogs. A strong senses of smell and a high aptitude for hunting completes the hound profile. One note about the “distinctive bay” – while they are admittedly loud while hunting, they tend to be fairly quiet at home provided they don’t see a squirrel through the window!
The Briquet de Provence is naturally obedient as he tends to develop a strong bond with his owner and wants to please. He can even be taught to leave the family cat alone which is more than can be said for certain other scenthounds! He does require an owner to be somewhat firm with household rules but the owner must be equally fair. The best results come when an owner starts training off while the dog is still in puppyhood – this holds true for basic obedience as well as training for hunting. This breed can be a great match for someone looking for either a hunting companion or an active sport dog. 
The Provence is speedy and athletic, requiring lots and lots of exercise daily but can still be a great pet for those who can keep up with his exercise requirements! He does best on a large property (think: rural living) as without enough space and stimulation he can become destructive. No apartments for this very active hound! He tends to live between 11-13 years and will have higher-than-average energy level for a good portion of his life.
The Provence sheds very little and only requires a weekly brushing to keep his coat shiny and in healthy condition. As his long ears are more prone to ear infections, they must be regularly cleaned and checked for foreign bodies which could become lodged in them. Other than the occasional ear infection the breed is very healthy and not prone to any particular health problem. As they also don’t eat a large amount of food they can be very compatible for someone looking to maintain a dog on a lower budget. While all of these factors make the breed a potential match for many first-time dog owners… it is the energy level that a prospective owner must be able to handle.
“Briquet” means medium, and the Briquet de Provence is so named because of his medium-sized build. Despite an athletic figure he is solid and sturdy. He has dark oval-shaped eyes that exude a gentle expression. The long hanging ears are set at eye-level or slightly lower and have a soft roll in them. The tail is long and low set, and is strong at the base. The coat is smooth and soft, and comes in either red or fawn – the latter occasionally with a black overlay or mantle. A small amount of white is permitted on certain areas of the body. When moving, the gait is lithe and harmonious.