Porcelaine
Quick Summary
Athletic and independent scenthound ideal for experienced owners. Excels in hunting and tracking activities. Requires significant exercise and space, best suited for rural settings.
Contents
Weight Range
55-62 lbs
♂ Male: 55-62 lbs
♀ Female: 55-62 lbs
Height Range
56-58 inches
♂ Male: 22-23"
♀ Female: 22-23"
Life Expectancy
12-13 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #75
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in France during the 1700s for hunting hare and other small game
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 22"-23" |
| Female Height | 22"-23" |
| Male Weight | 55-62 lbs |
| Female Weight | 55-62 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1500-2500 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses around $150 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs average $500-800, with potential increase for hunting-related injuries.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Independent and energetic breed with strong hunting instincts. Shows remarkable endurance and determination during scent work. Social with family but may be reserved with strangers. Requires consistent training to manage prey drive.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed that bonds well with family but maintains independent nature. Generally good with other dogs, especially when socialized early. Can tolerate alone time if properly exercised.
Breed Overview
Porcelaine dogs showcase a graceful yet powerful build, featuring a distinctive white coat that inspired their name. Standing elegantly at 22-23 inches, these French scenthounds possess remarkable stamina and agility. Their refined appearance belies their robust hunting capabilities, with a lean muscular frame and noble head carriage that commands attention.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent scenting ability
- ✓ Athletic endurance
- ✓ Elegant appearance
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ High exercise requirements
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Independent nature
- ✗ Needs large space
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Independent, Energetic, Powerful |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 90-120 minutes of daily exercise, including scent work, running, and vigorous play. High-intensity activities should comprise at least 60 minutes, with mental stimulation through tracking exercises essential for this energetic breed.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active hunting dogs may need additional calories. Special attention to joint-supporting nutrients recommended for this athletic breed.
Feed 3-4 cups premium dry food daily, split into two meals. Active hunting dogs may need up to 5 cups. Include joint supplements for athletic health. Monitor weight closely as activity levels affect caloric needs.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large fenced yards. Requires significant space for exercise and scent work. Adapts well to moderate climates but needs indoor shelter during extreme weather.
Requires minimum half-acre fenced area for exercise. Thrives in rural settings with room to run and track scents. Can adapt to suburban life if exercise needs are met through regular hunting or sporting activities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
French nobility developed the Porcelaine in the 1700s, naming them for their distinctive white coat resembling porcelain. The breed nearly disappeared after the French Revolution but was revived by dedicated breeders in the late 1800s.
Historical Purpose
Developed in France during the 1700s for hunting hare and other small game. Their exceptional scenting ability and stamina made them prized hunting companions among nobility.
Fun Fact
Their pristine white coat earned them their name, resembling fine French porcelain craftsmanship.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs secure fencing due to strong prey drive. Regular ear cleaning essential. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.