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French Spaniel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about French Spaniel so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Gun Dog
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OriginFrance flagFrance
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a French Spaniel known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Canadian SetterFrench SetterEpagneul Français
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a French Spaniel? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

French Spaniel Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a French Spaniel? Learn how big the French Spaniel breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a French Spaniel weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the French Spaniel breed.
44-55 pounds (20-25 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a French Spaniel?
49.5 pounds (22.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the French Spaniel? French Spaniel height:
Male: 22-24 inches (55-61 cm), Female: 21-23 inches (54-59 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a French Spaniel?
Male: 23 inches (58 cm), Female: 22 inches (56.5 cm)

French Spaniel Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a French Spaniel puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting French Spaniel costs.
$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the French Spaniel, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a French Spaniel for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the French Spaniel gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a French Spaniel? How many French Spaniel are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

French Spaniel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a French Spaniel? Discover the French Spaniel's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The French Spaniel ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a French Spaniel? Learn about the French Spaniel's trainability and response to training methods.
French Spaniel dogs are hard to train. They don't really get the association between commands and actions. If you want them to obey, you should be very consistent and patient while teaching.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a French Spaniel as a watchdog? Learn about the French Spaniel's alertness and guarding instincts.
French Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a French Spaniel protective of its territory? Learn about the French Spaniel's guarding instincts and behavior.
French Spaniel dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

French Spaniel Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a French Spaniel have? Learn about characteristic French Spaniel temperament and behavior traits.
LovingEnergeticIntelligentAdaptableCalmTough
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? French Spaniel sensitivity:
Sensitive: French Spaniel dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a French Spaniel a good family dog?
High: French Spaniel dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Canadian Setter need? French Spaniel social needs:
French Spaniel dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the French Spaniel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does French Spaniel roam?
French Spaniel dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does French Spaniel have high prey drive?
French Spaniel dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

French Spaniel Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a French Spaniel bark a lot? Learn about typical French Spaniel vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The French Spaniel rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a French Spaniel? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the French Spaniel breed.
Average: French Spaniels, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a French Spaniel live in an apartment? Learn about the French Spaniel's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the French Spaniel breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping French Spaniel indoors can cause a lot of problems.

French Spaniel Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a French Spaniel to lifestyle changes? Learn about the French Spaniel's flexibility to new situations.
Average: French Spaniel dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a French Spaniel be left alone? Learn about the French Spaniel's tolerance to solitude.
French Spaniel dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

French Spaniel Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a French Spaniel biting potential? Learn about the French Spaniel's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The French Spaniel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a French Spaniel mouthy? Learn about the French Spaniel's tendency to use mouth during play.
French Spaniel dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but French Spaniel dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a French Spaniel bite? Learn about the French Spaniel's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

French Spaniel bite force: Ordinary. Bite force French Spaniel measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a French Spaniel is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This French Spaniel bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. French Spaniel bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a French Spaniel puppy not to bite from an early age.

The French Spaniel, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the French Spaniel bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a French Spaniel can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

French Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a French Spaniel live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the French Spaniel breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of French Spaniel: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a French Spaniel handle different weather? Learn about the French Spaniel's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a French Spaniel? Discover typical conditions affecting the French Spaniel breed.
French Spaniels tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a French Spaniel need vet visits? Learn about the French Spaniel's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The French Spaniel should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

French Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a French Spaniel? Understand daily activity needs of the French Spaniel breed.
French Spaniel dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a French Spaniel need? How much exercise do French Spaniel dogs require per day?

Do French Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises?

French Spaniel dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the French Spaniel breed need?
French Spaniel dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

French Spaniel Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a French Spaniel prone to weight gain? Learn about the French Spaniel's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the French Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the French Spaniel weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a French Spaniel need daily? Learn about the French Spaniel's feeding requirements.
2-3 cup a day high-quality dry food formulated for adult dogs and made with high-quality animal proteins, divided into two meals.

French Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a French Spaniel hypoallergenic? Learn about the French Spaniel's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
French Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a French Spaniel come in? Discover all possible French Spaniel color variations.
White Liver
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a French Spaniel need? Learn about French Spaniel coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The French Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. French Spaniel is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a French Spaniel drool a lot? Learn about the French Spaniel's drooling habits.
The French Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the French Spaniel could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the French Spaniel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a French Spaniel smell bad? Learn about the French Spaniel's natural odor levels.

Medium

The French Spaniel has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a French Spaniel have? Learn about the French Spaniel's fur characteristics.
WavyGlossy
Bathing Needs
How often does a French Spaniel need baths? Learn about the French Spaniel's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do French Spaniel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Canadian Setter? Do French Spaniel dogs shed a lot?
French Spaniel dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.

French Spaniel Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a French Spaniel good with children? Learn about the French Spaniel's behavior around kids of different ages.
French Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a French Spaniel get along with other pets? Discover the French Spaniel's compatibility with other animals.
French Spaniel dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? French Spaniel temperament with other people:
French Spaniel dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do French Spaniel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the French Spaniel breed live with a cat?
French Spaniel dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is French Spaniel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do French Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs?
French Spaniel dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the French Spaniel can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is French Spaniel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is French Spaniel breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
French Spaniel dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are French Spaniel dogs good office canines? Do French Spaniel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
French Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do French Spaniel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Canadian Setter temperament with senior people? Are French Spaniel dogs good for elderly owners?
French Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.

French Spaniel As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a French Spaniel be a service dog? Learn about the French Spaniel's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

French Spaniel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a French Spaniel good as a therapy dog? Learn about the French Spaniel's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

French Spaniel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a French Spaniel good at detection work? Learn about the French Spaniel's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

French Spaniel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a French Spaniel do search and rescue? Learn about the French Spaniel's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The French Spaniel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a French Spaniel good on boats? Learn about the French Spaniel's maritime capabilities.

Not really

French Spaniel breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a French Spaniel pull carts? Learn about the French Spaniel's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

French Spaniel is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a French Spaniel used in military service? Learn about the French Spaniel's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

French Spaniel Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a French Spaniel usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
3-7 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a French Spaniel pregnant? Learn about the French Spaniel's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female French Spaniel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a French Spaniel have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

French Spaniel Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a French Spaniel in? Learn about the French Spaniel's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a French Spaniel in? Learn about the French Spaniel's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Pointing Dogs group, in the Continental Pointing Dogs section.

French Spaniel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The French Spaniel doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The French Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Child Compatibility: French Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: French Spaniel dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: French Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.
Cons
  • Training Difficulty: French Spaniel dogs are hard to train.
  • Health Concerns: French Spaniels tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: French Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the French Spaniel breed.
  • Shedding Level: French Spaniel dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the French Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthing Tendency: French Spaniel dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: French Spaniel dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: French Spaniel dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
  • Office Friendly: French Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: French Spaniel dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

French Spaniel History

The origin of the Spaniel goes back almost 2000 years with evidence when the name first appeared in writings such as the Irish law in 17 A.D. There is also another reference to the Spaniel in Welsh laws about the year 300 A.D. However most researchers agree that the term ‘Spaniel’ comes from the Roman name for Spain, Hispania, and the change probably came from this to spagnell, spainell, spanyell and spaniel. On the other hand, some people believe that the term may have come from the French phrase ‘Chiens de l’Espagnol’, which means the ‘dog of Spain’. Afterward, in the late 14th century several authors mentioned the breed in their writings. First of all Gaston De Foix, who was a rich and powerful lord of Southern France, wrote his “Livre de Chasse” (Book of the Chase) in which he describes this breed as a hunting dog. In the 16th century, Spaniels had become specialized in water and land breeds. After that a process of selection and refinement into distinct breeds started, the King Charles Spaniel and the French Spaniel became independent breeds by the mid-1600s.

The French Spaniel, like the other types of spaniel breeds, such as the English Springer Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel, is likely to have been derived from Spanish and Portuguese hunting dogs of the Middle Ages. However other people believe that the French Spaniel was developed in France in the 14th century where the breed was used for net hunting and falconry. It is true however that the breed became very popular in France and the surrounding countries as a hunting dog with noble roots. For net hunting, the dog would point with a low elongated, “setting style” which would make it easier for the hunter to throw the net over the dog. The French Spaniel kept its noble patronage and was admired for its speed and gentle mouth when retrieving wounded game. After a while, there was a time in the 19th century when the breed was on the edge of the extension. Apparently, it is proved that a French priest, Father Fournier, gathered as many French Spaniel as he could to save them by breeding them in his kennel in Saint Hillaire. Thanks to him in 1921 the French Spaniel Club was founded with Father Fournier being president and since then the breed has been recognized alongside other Spaniels such as Brittany and Picardy.

Moreover, the French Spaniel started becoming popular in other countries as well when it was imported to the Canadian providence of Quebec in the 1970s. A club was created in Quebec, which quickly gained popularity with its main goal to preserve the French Spaniel breed standard. A few years later the Canadian Kennel Club officially recognized the French Spaniel.

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