DEPRESSION-YOU ARE NOT ALONE

 

 

Dog Day Saturday 2024-04-04

Owning and interacting with pets, according to studies, can be a form of therapy for many. We have dedicated Saturday to dogs and Wednesday to cats, when we will post an article on each of those days. We will also post articles on occasion about other animals people may have as pets.  – Editorial Team

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Blue Picardy Spaniel

Editorial Team

Pleple2000, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a relatively rare and lesser-known breed of gundog originating from France, specifically from the Picardy region. It’s closely related to both the English Setter and the French Spaniel, with some sources suggesting there may also be bloodlines from the old Spanish pointer in its ancestry. The breed is recognized by various kennel clubs, including the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) and the UKC (United Kennel Club).

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a medium to large-sized dog, with males typically standing between 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm) at the shoulder, and females slightly smaller.
• Weight: On average, males weigh between 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg), while females weigh slightly less, around 40 to 55 pounds (18 to 25 kg).
• Coat: The breed’s most distinctive feature is its blue-gray coat, which is dense, water-resistant, and slightly wavy. The coat is typically a mottled blue-gray color with black patches or speckling. The ears are usually feathered, and the tail is often docked.
• Eyes and Ears: The Blue Picardy Spaniel has expressive eyes, typically ranging in color from amber to hazel. Its ears are long and pendant-shaped, set at eye level and framing the face.
• Body: The breed has a muscular, well-proportioned body, with a deep chest and strong, straight legs. The tail, when not docked, is moderately long and carried at or slightly below the level of the back.

Temperament and Personality:

• Gentle and Affectionate: Blue Picardy Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets and companions. They are typically good with children and other pets when properly socialized from a young age.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Like many gundog breeds, Blue Picardy Spaniels are intelligent and trainable, with a strong desire to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy having a job to do, whether it’s hunting, retrieving, or participating in dog sports such as agility or obedience.
• Energetic and Active: These dogs have plenty of energy and stamina, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They excel in outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and swimming, and they thrive in environments where they can be given ample opportunity to explore and play.
• Reserved with Strangers: While typically friendly and outgoing with their family members, Blue Picardy Spaniels may be somewhat reserved or cautious around strangers. Early socialization can help to mitigate any shyness or aloofness towards unfamiliar people or situations.

Grooming and Care:

• Coat Care: The Blue Picardy Spaniel’s coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. They shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding occurring seasonally. Bathing should be done as needed, using a mild dog shampoo to maintain the coat’s natural oils.
• Ear Care: Like many breeds with long, pendulous ears, Blue Picardy Spaniels are prone to ear infections if their ears are not kept clean and dry. Regular ear cleaning and inspection are essential to prevent moisture buildup and ear problems.
• Exercise Needs: This breed has high exercise requirements and thrives in environments where they can be active and engaged. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for off-leash exercise in a secure area are essential to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
• Training and Socialization: Early training and socialization are crucial for Blue Picardy Spaniels to ensure they grow into well-behaved and well-adjusted adults. Positive reinforcement techniques, consistency, and patience are key to successful training, and early exposure to various people, animals, and environments can help prevent behavioral issues later in life.

Health Considerations:

• Overall Health: Blue Picardy Spaniels are generally a healthy and hardy breed with a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and ear infections.
• Health Testing: Responsible breeders conduct various health tests on their breeding dogs to screen for potential hereditary health conditions and minimize the risk of passing on genetic diseases to offspring. Prospective buyers should inquire about the health testing performed on the parents of any puppies they are considering purchasing.
• Routine Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care are essential to maintain the health and well-being of Blue Picardy Spaniels throughout their lives. Owners should also be vigilant for any signs of illness or discomfort and seek prompt veterinary attention when necessary.

Suitability:

• Family Pets: Blue Picardy Spaniels make excellent family pets for active households who can provide them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when they can be included in family activities.
• Hunting and Sporting Dogs: Historically bred as gundogs, Blue Picardy Spaniels have a natural instinct for hunting and retrieving game birds. They excel in various hunting activities, including flushing, pointing, and retrieving, and they are well-suited for both fieldwork and hunting trials.
• Companion for Active Individuals: Individuals or families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, or hunting may find the Blue Picardy Spaniel to be an ideal companion due to its energy, athleticism, and love of outdoor adventures.

In summary, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a versatile and affectionate breed with a striking appearance, gentle temperament, and strong hunting instincts. While relatively rare outside of its native France, it can make a wonderful addition to the right home, provided it receives the proper care, training, and exercise it needs to thrive.