The Petit Gascon-Saintongeois was bred down from the Grand Gascon-Saintongeois by means of the Airegeois and other medium-sized dogs of the region. He was used as a multi-purpose pack hunter who was adept at hunting all sizes of game although usually specialized in smaller game such as hare. The “Petit” in his name does not refer to his size, but rather to his specialty for small animal hunting. Today, this is one of France’s rarest dog breeds and even more rare here in the United States despite being recognized by the UKC.
Petit Gascons are affectionate and happy companions; friendly to all family members while being patient with children. They can be easy to live with when their needs are met, however they are a lot of work if the owner isn’t using the dog for hunting purposes. While known for their stable temperaments, they are also high energy! They do need lots of exercise and a physical job to do – ideally one that involves their nose and their hunting nature! They are known for their persistent and steadfast hunting traits; traits which are inborn and need an outlet. Furthermore they need to live in a home with a yard in which they can stretch their legs. This is not a good match for apartments or even small homes.
The Petit Gascon-Saintongeois is a medium sized breed with a short, tight coat. Always white with black patches (sometimes openly speckled or ticked) and tan points on the face, ears and legs. Occasionally a dog will have a “dead leaf” marking on the thigh called a “roe buck mark”. The breed should give the overall appearance of having both muscular force as well as elegance. For the head and expression, the hound’s brown eyes should show an expression of gentleness and trust. The characteristic hanging ears should be low set and extremely long, long enough to reach the nose or beyond when pulled forward. The tail is also long and carried like a sabre.
The Petit Gascon lives an average of 12-14 years and is a very healthy breed in general with no common health issues known. Having only minimal grooming needs, and shedding very little, a weekly brushing will keep the coat shiny and healthy. Like other hanging-eared breeds, ears do need to be checked and cleaned weekly. Eyes should be checked and cleaned after hunting to be sure no brush or grit has gotten caught in them.
The Petit Gascon-Saintongois can be easy to train as he is agreeable and docile. He wants to please his owner whether it be through playing the part of watchdog, children’s playmate, hunting companion or learning obedience. He is intelligent and tends to learn quickly, although take note that like most scenthounds, he can also be fairly stubborn! Owners should be patient, consistent, and ideally already experienced with training scenthound breeds. While he isn’t the type of dog that will push all the limits to see what he can get away with, he is the type of dog that become bored or distracted easily.
Like many scenthounds, the Petit Gascon can be iffy when it comes to living with cats. He is very social and enjoys the company of humans and other dogs, however cats can trigger the chase instinct. He also might not be the “life of the party” when it comes to strangers. Not that he is aggressive, rather he may be standoffish at first until he is able to gauge the intents of a new person. This is not a guard dog nor a yard patrol-type of hound. He will announce people at the door and then go back to his business afterward. His primary jobs in his own mind (we can surmise), is that of hunter extraordinaire firstly and affectionate companion secondarily.
