France has gifted the world with dogs that marry elegance with function. I have picked 17 French dog breeds that are living legends.
#1 Basset Artésien Normand
The Basset Artesien Normand is an intelligent breed that is easily recognized for their short hound coat.
It was used to hunt rabbits and other small game alone or in packs. The breed tracks and flushes with great assurance.
#2 Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Sheepdog is a dog from the Pyrenees Mountains that excels in various dog sports such as agility and herding trials.
The coat can form cords on some parts of the body.
Their tails may be docked, natural bob, or long.
The breed was first recognised by the Société Centrale Canine in 1926.
#3 Ariège Pointer
The Ariège Pointer originates in the Ariège département of Occitanie, which is adapted to all forms of hunting. It needs regular training and activity. The Ariège Pointer is a good swimmer and can retrieve things from the water.
#4 French Bulldog
The French Bulldog was developed in France in the late 1800s. Full-grown French Bulldogs weigh under 28 pounds. The breed does not bark a lot, only when it finds a real cause for excitement. However, the French Bulldog is a great snorer, often getting very loud. It is a moderately good watchdog but a poor protection dog.
#5 Braque du Bourbonnais
The Braque du Bourbonnais is a breed of gundog originally from Bourbon, a region of central France. They have a good temper and can be a good agreement dog.
The breed is not recommended for homes with small pets or cats. In 1988, the first Braque du Bourbonnais was introduced in the United States.
Editor’s Pick
#6 Papillon
The Papillon is a spaniel-type breed that originated in France. Papillons adapt as well to a city apartment as to a country estate. However, Papillons do tend to be more active than other toy breeds.
They are generally neither shy nor aggressive. The coat is long and silky, and the tail is a waving plume. Papillon’s ears come out at a 45º angle.
#7 Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large French mastiff breed that is believed to predate the Bulldog and the Bullmastiff. It was known in France as early as the 14th century.
DDBs can be great with kids, especially when socialized from a young age. They will dominate you if you fail to apply firm training in puppyhood.
#8 Briard
Briard is a sheepdog breed whose origin dates back to the eighth century. The breed was a favorite of Napoleon. These dogs need a lot of physical and mental activity daily. They can be hostile to other dogs if not socialised correctly.
#9 Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a short-legged hunting breed of dog that is prized for its sociability. I like the breed since it gets along well with children and other pets. They measure 32 to 38 cm in height. They are unhappy if kept confined for too long.
#10 Ariégeois
The Ariégeois is a breed of medium-sized scent hound that was developed in the French province of Ariège. It is a breed that is best suited for experienced dog owners who go hunting. Also, it does not adapt well to urban life.
The breed was officially recognised in France in 1912. The Ariégeois has a white coat with a few black spots or flecks.
#11 Beagle-Harrier
The Beagle-Harrier was originally bred to hunt hares. It is clever, sporty, and loves being close to its humans. It was recognized by the FCI in 1974. If it is properly socialized, the Beagle-Harrier gets along well with other dogs.
#12 Grand Bleu de Gascogne
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of hounds of the scenthound type that was used originally for hunting wolves. It has a long, noble head with pendulous ears. The colour of the coat is white, mottled with black.
#13 Beauceron
The Beauceron is a herding dog breed originating from Central France. They are not physically or mentally mature until the age of about three years. They are especially good with the small, the young, and the defenseless. If not well-trained, they can be aggressive.
#14 Griffon Nivernais
The Griffon Nivernais is a breed of dog of the scenthound type that loves being outdoors. The breed is known for its vocal nature. However, the temperament of individual dogs may vary.
#15 French Spaniel
The French Spaniel was developed in Canada and France as a hunting dog. This breed thrives on physical and mental stimulation. Their lovely coat matches their charming personality.
#16 Billy
It is a large scenthound originating from central western France. The breed owes its name to Billy Castle. Billys have broad heads and muscular bodies.
#17 Français Blanc et Noir
The Français Blanc et Noir descends from the old Hound of Saintonge type of large hunting dog. Their deep howl has made them an increasingly popular pet in the US.