The breed was selected primarily for hunting because it has exceptional scenting abilities. In terms of temperament, the dog displays the typical behavior of scenthounds.
The great endurance that characterizes the breed makes this dog suitable for working for many hours without stopping, while maintaining a fast pace. Because of its great energy and fighting spirit, it is used for wild boar hunting.
Character
The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie is a strong-willed and highly energetic dog. It shows faithfulness and loyalty toward its owner.
Appearance
The breed has a balanced structure and solid construction. It is a small-to-medium-sized dog, very harmonious, lean and without heaviness. The head is not particularly broad, with a slightly convex, not domed skull and a barely marked stop. The muzzle is of medium length and slightly tapered, with a straight or slightly Roman nose and an upper lip covering the lower one. The nose is well pigmented with open nostrils. The eyes are large and brown. The ears, set below the eye line, are flexible, slightly turned inward and of medium width. The neck is clean and has no dewlap.The body has a straight back with a short, muscular loin. The slightly sloping croup is fairly long, while the chest, reaching down to the elbows, is deep and developed, with long, well-sprung ribs. The tail is of medium length, fine and well set on the loin line. The forelegs are strong and broad, with long, flat shoulder blades attached to the chest. The hindquarters have muscular, well-descended thighs, with angular hocks close to the ground. The feet are dry, with tight toes and resistant pads and nails. The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie’s coat is short, very smooth and dense. Tricolor is permitted in various combinations: white and black with vivid tan markings and a black nose, white and black with pale tan markings and a black nose, and finally white and orange with a tobacco-colored nose.
Historical notes
The origins of the Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie can be traced to various crosses between different breeds. Its ancestors include the Petit Bleu de Gascogne, Petit Gascon Saintongeois, Harrier and Beagle. These matings produced dogs that the French divided into three distinct breeds, one small and two medium-sized. The French, who are notoriously nationalistic, like to claim that the breeds used in the first crosses were entirely French, with English blood introduced only later to improve performance. In reality, the breed originated from crosses between English and French specimens. Today the breed is still widespread in France, where it is used in packs to hunt foxes. In Italy, the Anglo-Française de Petite Vénerie is mainly bred in the Tuscan Maremma area, where it is used in packs primarily for wild boar hunting.
Lifestyle
The dog adapts well to various lifestyles, but it must get plenty of exercise. It is suitable for living at home with the family..
Diseases
There are no specific known diseases for this breed.
Interesting facts
The Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie is known for being an exceptionally shrewd dog.
Gait
The gait of the Anglo-Français de Petite Vénerie is very sure, elastic and lively.
Ideal owner
The owner must be firm to counter the breed’s characteristic strength of personality. They should not skimp on affection for the puppy, which is always very affectionate. It is important that the owner be willing to go on walks with the dog, which, like all hunting dogs, needs plenty of exercise.
The Alaskan Malamute is a large dog with a courageous and friendly spirit. Friendly with other animals, it can be a good life companion, always wise and caring.