Ariegeois Dog

Ariegeois

COUNTRY: France
WEIGHT: 66 pounds
HEIGHT: 22-24 inches
COAT: Short and smooth
COLOR: Tricolor, with the black and tan mostly
on the head; a few body patches allowed, but
the body is basically clear white without ticking
GROUP: Hound









This comparative newcomer to the world of hounds originated in 1912. Ariege province, for which the breed is named, is in the very south of France on the Spanish border, midway between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. Breeders used Bleu de Gascogne, Gascon Sain-tongeois, and Chien d'Artois in the formation of this hound. Hunting in packs, they are hare dogs par excellence, demonstrating skill over all terrain. The Ariegeois dogs have gained little notice outside their own region, perhaps because the locals referred to them as half-blood or bastard hounds (batards) due to their recent blending of breeds. The Gaston Phoebus Club in southwestern France has promoted the breed, since its recent birth, through pack trials at the Ceron Villa. The Ariegeois dog is a handsome and vigorous dog, serene and affectionate in the home. He looks very similar to the Grand Bleu de Gascogne without the ticking and in a smaller package.