Overview
The Braque du Bourbonnais is a medium-sized pointing dog from the old province of Bourbonnais, documented since the sixteenth century and rebuilt by breeders in the 1970s after near extinction. It is often born with a very short tail, and its fine coat is finely ticked in liver or fawn, which gave rise to the old descriptions of wine dregs and peach blossom.
The breed's selling point is its temperament. It is gentle, cooperative and settled indoors, with enough drive in the field to please a hunter. For a walker it is one of the easier gundogs: not dramatic, not stubborn, and very attached to its people.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day including off-lead time suits most adults. They are methodical rather than frantic in the field and tire sooner than the big ranging pointers.
A walk with a purpose, such as a retrieve or a search for a hidden toy, leaves the dog more content than a longer one without. They also enjoy a swim where it is safe.
On the walk
- Recall: Good. The breed likes to stay in contact and takes correction gently. Watch for birds and rabbits, as with any pointer.
- Pulling: Light. Polite on the lead once settled, and a harness suits the fine coat better than a collar that rubs.
- Other dogs: Friendly and non-confrontational. Fits into a group walk without fuss.
- Weather: The coat is thin and the dog feels cold rain and wind. Keep winter walks moving or add a coat.
Tips for professional walkers
- Keep the tone of the walk calm; the breed mirrors its handler and gets anxious under shouting.
- Carry a soft retrieving toy for the open field.
- Check the short tail and the tips of the ears after walks through brambles.
- Towel the dog quickly in winter rather than letting it stand wet.
What to ask the owner
- Is the dog trained to gundog cues or a whistle, and how does the owner want them used?
- How does it react to gunshot, fireworks or sudden noises on a walk?
- Any known joint or eye issues, and is swimming allowed?