History health and training
Like every "braque" breed in France, the "braque du Bourbonnais" has its origins in the old continental braque, even if, by its origins and its characteristics it is the most distant of it. The stock very old since is already announced in 1580 in Bourbonnais (today department of Allier) on a facsimile from Aldrovandi (doctor and naturalist from Bologna 1522/1605, author of a true biological encyclopedia), as a dog from Bourbonnais, ticked, with short tail, skillful to hunt quail.
It is in this Allier department (former Bourbonnais province) that climate, ground, game and hunters created a "small" rustic and solid braque, giving an impression of robustness and strength, with a pear shape head and a very special coat. Special because of the spots topography, by the homogeneous mixture of the white and colored hairs. No big spot but small a liver ticked or fawn mottled coat producing a kind of farinaceous aspect said to be of "average color" in nuances going from fawn to light brown. This hue, because it is more a hue than a color, one can have it in the eye, but it is very difficult to describe it, so that different authors have spoken of faded lilac, wine dregs or peach blossom and even "thigh of nymph". It seems that this is the name of an ancient rose, white delicately tinted of pink.
The braque du Bourbonnais was called short tail braque because sometimes it is born without a tailless (anury) or more often with a small tail of less than 15 cm (brachyury). This characteristic which was used during a long time as breed criteria is today a proof of the lineage with old lines. Our dog is as pleasant and malleable in the house than on the ground; very attentive to orders he shows a great will to execute them.
With a very active temperament, he is very linked to his master and forms a team with him. Gifted with an excellent noise, firmness on the point, he retrieves well and very often does it naturally; his gallop is powerful, sustained without weakness, some trot sequences sometimes enable him to adapt to the terrain. He explores the terrain with method, without too much nervousness but with a lot of dedication. He is a serious auxiliary, who can have good results in field trials opened to every pointing dog.
The Bourbonnais Pointer is a breed of hunting dog known for its intelligence, liveliness and excellent sense of smell. However, like all dogs, the Bourbonnais Pointer can also be prone to certain health problems. With this in mind, we will look at the most common disorders encountered in this breed of dog and how to prevent them.
Like many hunting dog breeds, the Braque Bourbonnais can be prone to musculoskeletal problems. These are often hereditary conditions that become apparent at a young age. Among the most common is hip dysplasia, a malformation of the joint that can lead to lameness and chronic pain.
Skin problems can range from simple irritations to more serious conditions such as atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammation of the skin.
Veterinary monitoring is essential to be able to detect early signs of illness and take steps to treat them before they become more serious.
Preventing health problems also involves good dog training. A well-trained dog will be more likely to obey commands and avoid potentially dangerous situations. In addition, dog training helps strengthen the bond between dog and owner, which can help reduce stress and anxiety in the animal.
The health of the Braque Bourbonnais should be a priority for all owners of this dog breed. By taking the necessary measures to prevent health problems and ensuring regular veterinary follow-ups, you can guarantee the well-being and longevity of your four-legged friend. Remember, a good diet, regular physical activity, appropriate dog training and dog insurance are the keys to a healthy and fulfilling life for your Braque Bourbonnais.
Before you begin training your dog, it is essential to understand the history, personality traits, and specific needs of the Braque Bourbonnais breed. Originally from France, this hunting dog is known for its robustness, agility, and hunting instinct. It is also very affectionate and is one of the pets appreciated for its loyalty and gentleness.
As a pointing dog, the Braque Bourbonnais is naturally gifted at hunting game, displaying a clear and solid stop when spotting prey. Its excellent sense of smell and great endurance make it an ideal hunting companion. However, its strong personality requires rigorous and consistent training from a young age.
Training requires investment, patience and an adapted method. It must begin from the puppy's youngest age to be effective. It is recommended to start with simple exercises and gradually progress to more complex tasks.
The use of a dog training collar is often recommended to facilitate learning. It allows you to control the dog from a distance and correct certain unwanted behaviors. However, it is important to use it with moderation and respect so as not to frighten or hurt the animal.
To train your dog to hunt, you can start with hunting exercises using a lure, then add dummies whistle, and more. Encourage your dog to search for and signal game by positively reinforcing good behavior.
Beyond hunting training, it is important to socialize your Braque Bourbonnais and provide mental stimulation. Socialization from a young age allows your dog to become familiar with other dogs, humans, and different environments. This helps prevent aggressive or anxious behavior.
Mental stimulation is also crucial to your dog's well-being. The Braque Bourbonnais is an intelligent breed that needs mental challenges to stay balanced. Intelligence games, obedience exercises, and search activities can go a long way in providing mental stimulation.
Your attitude, your patience and your consistency are determining factors in the success of your dog's education. Remember that each dog is unique and that training must always be adapted to its learning pace and its personality.
With these tips and a good method, your Braque Bourbonnais can become an excellent hunting dog and a loyal and affectionate life companion. The important thing is to take the time to establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect. Good luck in this great adventure that is the education of your dog!