The Braque Saint Germain dog is a medium to large sized breed of dog. It is a versatile hunter and used for hunting as a gun dog and pointer as well as for hunting other small game. It is also known as Saint Germain Pointer. ‘Braque’ is a term meaning pointing dogs.
The Braque Saint Germain breed was originated from France. It was created around 1830 by crossing English and French pointing type dogs.
It is a versatile hunting dog that has been used not only for pointing, but also for flushing and retrieving. The breed can work with a variety of game, including rabbits and pheasants. Unlike most hunting dogs, traditionally this breed has been popular in the show-ring and has been bred to have a very uniform and specific appearance.
The Braque Saint Germain dog breed was bred first in the royal kennels at Compiègne around 1830 from a mix of English and Continental pointers, the breed grew in fame in Saint Germain en Laye, where it received its name.
Although a popular hunting dog, the breed achieved its greatest fame as a showdog. Starting from the first dog show in France in 1863, it was the most shown pointing breed.
The French breed club was established in 1913. The breed is recognized internationally by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in Group 7, Pointing Dogs, Section 1.1 Continental Type Pointing Dog.
As of 2006, the breed is also recognized in North America by the United Kennel Club. It is also recognized by a number of minor registries, hunting clubs and internet-based dog registry business, and promoted as a rare breed for those seeking a unique pet.[1]
Braque Saint Germain Dog Characteristics
The Braque Saint Germain dogs are medium to large in size and very beautiful. The appearance of the breed is particularly important to breeders, even though they are primarily a gun dog.
They have participated in a large number of French dog shows historically. These dogs should be of medium build with good muscling and heavy bones. Their skull should be round and should be the same length as their muzzle.
Their nose is of pink color which should have wide open nostrils. While their big, golden eyes should exhibit a placid and relaxed expression. Their ears are curved at the tip and should not reach any further than the level of their eyes.
The shoulders of the Braque Saint Germain dogs are quite impressively long and their limbs should be sturdy and heavy. They have a wide chest and a straight back, though their croup will slope slightly.
The coat of the Braque Saint Germain dog is short and should be a faded white color with orange markings. And it is preferred that the ears be orange all over.
Average body height of the mature dog is between 22 and 24 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 23 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 18 and 27 kg.
Temperament
As a working dog, the Braque Saint Germain dogs have the character expected of a working dog. They are very easy to train and they love to be kept active and provided with a task to do. They don’t hurt or damage the prey that they retrieve.
They also tend to work in packs, meaning that they usually get on well with other dogs. While they have undeniably got a natural instinct to chase small animals, anecdotally, they get along well with small pets within their household that they have been introduced to from a young age.
The Braque Saint Germain is truly a family dog, and they do best when kept indoors with human companionship. They are particularly affectionate with those that they trust and will bond closely with every member of their family.
They are not typically a breed that will show any aggression, and they are suited around children. But they are not good as guard dogs.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Braque Saint Germain dog is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Braque Saint Germain dogs are medium in size and are very active. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with high exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Braque Saint Germain dogs. They generally love to stay active and to be out. They have great stamina when working and are capable of traveling large distances over long periods of time without seeming to tire.
If these dogs are kept solely as a companion, then the owners should be able to provide an hour to two of solid exercise daily and should also keep the dog stimulated with various games and training sessions.
The Braque Saint Germain dogs have short coat that needs brushing no more than once or twice a week. Trim their toenails every few months, particularly if they are not walked on hard surfaces.
Health
The Braque Saint Germain dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include ear infections and hip dysplasia. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Braque Saint Germain |
| Other Names | Also known as Saint Germain Pointer |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | Between 22 and 24 inches at the withers for males, and between 21 and 23 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 18 and 20 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Dull white with orange (fawn) markings |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Rare |
| Country of Origin | France |
