The Chien d’Artois is a French scenthound bred to hunt deer, hare and wild boar in small packs. Descended from Bloodhounds, they were valued for their tirelessly dedicated natures, brave characters, and abilities to work in all types of terrain. It was not uncommon for them to follow a trail for hours on end – so greatly do they enjoy the hunt! This very old breed existed as far back as the Renaissance and was, at times, owned by royalty! After World War two, however, numbers drastically dwindled and this hound was thought to be all but extinct. Thankfully, French fanciers were able to find a few remaining members and recreated the breed in the 1970’s.
The medium-sized Chien is a likely forebearer of the Beagle and one can see the physical similarities in the rounded head, square muzzle, and long hanging ears which are rounded at the tips. The coat is short and tricolored. The long tail also includes a brush at the end, like the Beagle, although is carried in more of a sickle fashion. In addition to their physical similarities, the two breeds also share the same laid back natures and friendly personalities. In France, Chien still hunt but have also been becoming more popular as companion animals as well! Although their numbers have been rising in their country of origin as more of the general public becomes aware of their wonderful temperaments, they are still fairly unknown in the rest of the world. Although recognized by the UKC in the United States, they are rarely seen.
Like most scenthounds, the d’Artois can have a stubborn and strong-willed personality which means owners must have plenty of patience when it comes to training. They also are more likely than other dogs to become easily distracted, and are known to become highly independent once they’ve found something they’d rather be doing. The breed is actually exceptionally smart, however following orders isn’t normally a huge interest. Owners must be prepared to be firm yet fair, and practice constant consistency. Those who have owned other scenthounds in the past will probably have an easier time managing this hound. 
Chien d’Artois are extremely loving hounds which develop deep and loyal bonds with their human families. They love to play and will demonstrate lots of affection in their everyday lives. They do well with kids as well as other dogs, and may even get along with other pets if socialized to them from an early age. They can even make good watchdogs as they will bark when someone comes near the property.
The Chien is a high energy breed and needs an active owner that is able to give him plenty of exercise every day – at least an hour a day. If used regularly as a hunting dog he may not need quite as much exercise as he will tire himself out in a full day’s hunt… at least for a few days after the hunt. But for the majority of owners wanting this breed strictly as a companion, they should plan accordingly. Giving him stimulating mind games will also help to tire him out as well, and this should be in combination with physical exercise. Finally, make sure that all exercise is carried out on-leash – he will most certainly wander off otherwise!
The d’Artois possesses many aspects that make him appreciated as a hunting dog – most notably his amazing sense of smell. It can’t be stressed enough that he lives to hunt and would gladly do so every day of his life! Nothing makes him happier. If one is being kept strictly as a pet, that hound will almost definitely find ways to hunt if he can. This might take the form of chasing squirrels or tracking the trail of a possum on a walk. It’s highly recommended that owners give this hound scent-related games and activities to keep him satisfied and give him a job to do.
