Spaniel (blue Picardy)

Origins and History

The Picardy Spaniel, commonly referred to as the Blue Picardy Spaniel, originated in the Picardy region of northern France in the early 19th century. Developed from native French spaniels and imported English setters, the breed was refined for hunting waterfowl and upland game in the marshes and forests of the Somme Valley. Recognized by the Société Centrale Canine (French Kennel Club) in 1908, the Picardy Spaniel was admitted to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in Group 7 (Pointing Dogs and Setters) as breed number 242, though it is also listed in many countries under the Sporting Group.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑sized, well‑balanced sporting dog with a sturdy, slightly rectangular outline.
• Affectionate, eager to please, and highly motivated by scent work; requires regular mental and physical challenges.
• Originally bred as a versatile gun dog for flushing, retrieving, and tracking both in water and on land.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 55‑60 cm (21½‑23½ in), Females 53‑58 cm (21‑22½ in).
• Weight: 25‑30 kg (55‑66 lb), proportionate to height and bone structure.

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length, dense, slightly wavy coat with a soft undercoat; feathering on ears, legs, and tail.
• Accepted color: solid blue (mouse‑gray) with a black overlay; a small white blaze on the chest or a white tip on the tail is permissible but should be minimal.

Temperament Considerations

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is enthusiastic, sociable, and highly scent‑driven. Its eagerness to work can translate into a strong desire for activity, making consistent, positive reinforcement essential. The breed can be sensitive to harsh correction, so a patient, reward‑based approach yields the best results.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other animals to reinforce its friendly nature.
• Daily vigorous exercise (minimum 1‑2 hours) that includes off‑lead runs, fetch, and scent games.
• Focus on recall and impulse control; the breed’s natural retrieving instinct may cause it to chase moving objects.

Daily Grooming

• Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Clean ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup; use a vet‑approved ear cleanser.
• Bath as needed (typically every 6‑8 weeks) or after field work; avoid over‑bathing to preserve natural oils.
• Trim nails when they click on a hard surface; check dental health weekly and brush teeth several times a month.

Show Preparation

• Begin a grooming schedule 2 weeks before the show: brush daily, trim feathering to the standard length, and trim foot pads for a neat appearance.
• Perform a final coat sweep and ear cleaning the day before the ring; ensure the coat is free of debris and the ears are clean and free of wax.
• Present the dog on a level, well‑groomed coat with a natural, glossy finish; avoid excessive clipping that would alter the breed’s characteristic texture.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommended hip radiographs and breeding screening.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing is advised for breeding stock.
• Ear infections – due to floppy ears; regular ear cleaning reduces risk.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work can detect early onset.

General Care

• Provide at least 1‑2 hours of vigorous exercise daily to maintain musculoskeletal health.
• Feed a high‑quality, age‑appropriate diet; maintain a body condition score of 4‑5 on a 9‑point scale.
• Average lifespan 12‑14 years with proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and preventive health screenings.