Uncommon Dog Breeds: The French Spaniel

A native of France, the French Spaniel stepped onto the stage in the early 1600s, for the purpose of game flushing and retrieving. Considered to be one of France's most elegant breeds, the spaniel was the outcome of crossing the Dutch Partridge Dog with the Small Munsterlander. This dog has a classic appearance, and mellow temperament so it comes as no surprise that it has become a common sight in many homes. These dogs are rare outside their homeland.

The French Spaniel has broad skull with an elongated muzzle that comes to an abrupt stop. Oval eyes are large, chestnut in color, and sit far apart on the head. Ears are rather long, hang flat, with profuse feathering at the tips. The neck is short, and slender. A deep chest, and thickly muscled body are well proportioned. An elongated tail is somewhat bushy, and kept close to the hocks. Its coat is silky, and is a mixture of wavy and straight hairs with longer fur around the ears, tail, chest, and legs. These dogs are white with chestnut or liver patches and speckling.

Affectionate, easy going, and gentle, the French Spaniel makes an amenable pet, so it is rather surprising that their numbers are so few. These are quiet dogs who dote on their owners, and bask in their affections. Velcro dogs, these critters live in your shadow. They are deeply devoted to their family, however they tend to bond strongly to one person. Somewhat timid, the spaniel will get along with calm children, but tends to avoid more rambunctious personalities. Due to it's non-confrontational nature, this breed does well with all animals, including dominant dogs.