French Spaniel
Quick Summary
Versatile sporting dogs ideal for active families. Best suited for experienced owners who can provide ample exercise and training. Excellent combination of hunting ability and family companion.
Contents
Weight Range
50-60 lbs
♂ Male: 50-60 lbs
♀ Female: 50-60 lbs
Height Range
55-61 inches
♂ Male: 22-24"
♀ Female: 22-24"
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in medieval France as versatile hunting companions, these dogs excelled in bird hunting and retrieving game from both land and water during the 14th century
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 21.5"-24" |
| Female Height | 21.5"-24" |
| Male Weight | 50-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 50-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,500-2,500 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food, grooming, and routine care. Annual veterinary expenses range from $500-1,000.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
French Spaniels exhibit a balanced temperament combining gentleness with sporting ability. Their moderate energy levels and social nature make them excellent family companions, while maintaining strong hunting instincts.
Social Needs
Highly social dogs requiring regular family interaction and companionship. They get along well with other dogs and need moderate supervision. Can handle short periods alone but prefer company.
Breed Overview
French Spaniels are elegant sporting dogs with a distinctive white coat marked by brown patches. Their medium-sized, athletic build features a noble head carriage, pendulous ears, and expressive eyes reflecting their gentle nature. Standing 21.5 to 24 inches at the shoulder, these dogs possess a balanced structure ideal for both field work and companionship, complemented by their intelligent expression and graceful movement.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent hunting companion
- ✓ Good with families
- ✓ Intelligent
- ✓ Gentle temperament
Cons
- ✗ Needs extensive exercise
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Not suited for apartment living
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Gentle, Sociable, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
French Spaniels require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, combining field training, swimming, and retrieving games. Their moderate to high intensity level demands varied activities that challenge both mind and body.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control and exercise timing to prevent bloat. Rich in proteins and nutrients for active lifestyle.
Adult French Spaniels need 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Diet should be rich in protein (25-30%) to support their active lifestyle. Fresh water must always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with ample outdoor space, preferably with a fenced yard. Adapts well to rural or suburban settings, requiring room to stretch and exercise regularly.
Requires a home with adequate space for movement and exercise. A fenced yard is ideal, minimum 500 square feet outdoor area. Adapts well to various living situations if exercise needs are met.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
French Spaniels trace their roots to medieval France, where they were developed as versatile hunting dogs. Prized by nobility for their exceptional bird hunting abilities, they nearly faced extinction in the early 1900s before dedicated breeders revived the breed.
Historical Purpose
Developed in medieval France as versatile hunting companions, these dogs excelled in bird hunting and retrieving game from both land and water during the 14th century.
Fun Fact
French Spaniels were once so rare that only 20 dogs remained in the 1930s before breed revival efforts.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular ear cleaning needed due to floppy ears. Requires consistent exercise and training. Health screening for hip dysplasia and eye conditions recommended.