The Petit Bleu de Gascogne is a very old scenthound from France. Created to hunt hare in packs, they are directly descended from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and are the forth and final Bleu breed as profiled here. The name Petit (meaning small) refers not to the size of the hound but to the size of the game. This is, in fact, a medium-sized breed! They are known for being easy to hunt with and generally level-headed in the field, taking it a little slower than other more exuberant hounds (although not lacking in enthusiasm). The word “methodical” comes to mind. Despite their comparative calmness while hunting, they may still be a difficult pet for those inexperienced with scenthounds and/or who can’t meet their particular needs.
The Petit Bleu, as a pack hound, gets along great with other dogs. With the human family he is equally enamored and just wants to be involved in whatever everyone else is doing! He is good with children as well, being both patient and affectionate, although should ideally be socialized around and raised with kids for best results. In fact this breed can be generally easier to keep as a pet than many other scenthounds due to his extraordinarily stable and good nature – although is still a better match for those who already understand scenthound quirks. Those who work a lot might have a harder time keeping this hound happy, as he can suffer from separation anxiety if he isn’t given enough company. Finally, he usually enjoys meeting strangers making him a Casanova of the neighborhood, while equally a dunce as a guard dog.
The unique blue-colored coat (actually black and white mottled resulting in a blue appearance) of the Petit Bleu is short and very dense, and is overall easy to care for. Baths only need be given occasionally when needed, and a weekly brushing will keep shedding down (the breed tends to shed a moderate amount). In addition, take care of the dark black nails by clipping or dremeling once a week or so. The long, low-set hanging ears will need regular cleaning and weekly inspection for evidence of infection. Brush the teeth regularly and make sure the loose drooping eyelids haven’t captured dirt and grime. Finally, make sure to admire this breed often – from the long and refined head to the oval-shaped feet! This is truly a handsome breed with a classic appearance!
Training the Petit Bleu de Gascogne can be difficult as he is strong-willed and prone to distraction. An owner must be firm and consistent with this intelligent yet highly independent hound. Once again, a person who is experienced with similar breeds will probably have an easier time navigating his particular training needs. Starting obedience training early will help to get a leg up on the process, as well as keeping training sessions short. Working out the brain can also help to work out the body, and both can serve to give him purpose and fulfillment. Scent-related games and sports are helpful to keep this hound busy – and a combination of obedience training, scent-games and (ideally) hunting expeditions can all combine to nurture both brain and body.
When it comes to hunting, the Petit Bleu de Gascogne is known for stamina and endurance. He tends to howl melodically while in pursuit of game, a trait of many scenthound breeds and something to think about for prospective owners who value quiet time. Because of his high prey drive and tendency to chase down smaller animals (even if at a slightly slower pace), he doesn’t tend to do well with very small pets. Of equal importance is the existence of a tall fence to keep him in the yard and away from wildlife that might wander by.
The Petit Bleu is not a good choice for apartment dwellers as he needs lots of room to to move around. Exercise is very important, as he requires a daily walk or jog in addition to lots of backyard workouts. Without enough exercise he can become destructive and difficult to live with. This moderately active dog definitely needs someone who enjoys walks around the block just as much as he does! Do keep in mind that the Petit Bleu’s talented nose is able to pick up a scent and follow it with ease. In fact, he is so good at this talent that he is likely to “catch a whiff” of something interesting on every walk and may be inclined to follow. For this reason, walking on a leash is a necessity to keep this hound safe and out of the middle of the road. Although he can make a good pet in the right circumstance, he will always be a hunting dog in his heart!
Photo By Katarzyna Bujko