Andrea Arden 
Gascon Saintongeois
Gascon Saintongeois: The Noble French Scenthound
Elegant, Determined, and Full of Character
The Gascon Saintongeois is a distinguished French scent hound known for its noble appearance, exceptional hunting abilities, and calm temperament. Originating from the Gascony and Saintonge regions of France, this breed combines athletic power with elegant lines that reflect its aristocratic heritage.
While relatively rare even in its native France, the Gascon Saintongeois has earned respect as a determined hunter with a fine nose and beautiful voice. These hounds show remarkable dedication to their work while maintaining a gentle, affectionate nature with their human companions. The breed comes in two varieties - the larger Grand Gascon Saintongeois and the slightly smaller Petit Gascon Saintongeois, both sharing the same noble characteristics.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Gascon Saintongeoisโfrom its fascinating history and distinctive characteristics to its care requirements and whether this elegant, energetic breed might be the perfect addition to your active household.
Basic Information
The Gascon Saintongeois is a large scent hound known for its lean, muscular build, noble expression, and exceptional hunting capabilities. These dogs are built for endurance and excel at tracking game across varied terrain in packs.
| Other Names | Virelade Hound |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Scenthound (UKC, FCI Group 6) |
| Origin | France |
| Height (Grand) | 65-72 cm (25.6-28.3 in) for males; 61-66 cm (24-26 in) for females |
| Height (Petit) | 56-62 cm (22-24.4 in) for males; slightly smaller for females |
| Weight | 66-71 pounds (Grand); proportionally less for Petit |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Coat | Short, tight, and dense |
| Colors | White with black patches and tan markings |
| Temperament | Calm, affectionate, determined, pack-oriented |
| Energy Level | High - requires substantial daily exercise |
| Good With | Families, children, other dogs |
Did You Know?
The Gascon Saintongeois was created in 1845 by crossing the nearly extinct Saintongeois Hound with the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. Only three Saintongeois Hounds survived the French Revolution, and Count Joseph de Carayon-Latour used these precious survivors to create the new breed. The resulting dogs were so successful that they quickly gained popularity among French hunters for their exceptional nose and beautiful voice.
History and Origin
The Gascon Saintongeois has a rich French heritage that dates back to the mid-19th century, born from necessity to preserve valuable hunting lines.
Development in France
The breed was officially developed in 1845 by Count Joseph de Carayon-Latour, who crossed the last remaining Saintongeois Hounds (only three survived the French Revolution) with the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. The goal was to preserve the hunting qualities of the nearly extinct Saintongeois while introducing the vigor and characteristics of the Gascony hounds.
The crossing was more successful than anticipated, creating not just a preservation of the old Saintongeois but an entirely new breed with enhanced hunting abilities. The Count named this new breed Gascon Saintongeois, combining the names of both parent breeds. The dogs were initially kept at the Count's estate, Chateau de Virelade, which led to their alternative name: Virelade Hound.
Two Varieties Emerge
In the middle of the 20th century, hunters in southwestern France began selecting smaller dogs from litters of Grand Gascon Saintongeois for hunting hare and other small game. These smaller hounds became established as the Petit Gascon Saintongeois. While sharing the same fundamental characteristics as their larger counterparts, the Petit variety proved exceptionally versatile for hunting various game types and required slightly less space and exercise, making them popular among hunters with more modest means.
Breed Development Timeline
- Pre-19th Century: Saintongeois Hounds established as favored hunting dogs of French aristocracy
- French Revolution: Saintongeois Hounds nearly wiped out, only three survivors remain
- 1845: Count Joseph de Carayon-Latour creates Gascon Saintongeois by crossing survivors with Grand Bleu de Gascogne
- Mid-20th Century: Hunters develop Petit variety from smaller Grand individuals
- 1993: Recognized by United Kennel Club
- Present: Remains relatively rare even in France
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Gascon Saintongeois presents a noble, athletic appearance that reflects its working heritage, with a body built for endurance and speed.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Large, lean, and highly athletic with a deep chest and muscular build
- Head: Elongated with a slightly domed skull and well-defined stop
- Eyes: Dark chestnut brown, expressive and intelligent
- Ears: Thin, set low and well back, long and twisted inward
- Nose: Well-developed, black with open nostrils
- Tail: Elegant, well-attached, carried saber-fashion when active
- Coat: Short, tight, and dense, providing protection in rough terrain
Coat and Colors
The Gascon Saintongeois has a distinctive coat that is both functional and attractive:
- Coat Type: Short, tight, dense, and fine
- Texture: Close-fitting, providing excellent protection against vegetation
- Base Color: White background
- Markings: Black patches, sometimes speckled or ticked with black
- Facial Markings: Black ears and face around eyes, tan cheeks
- Special Markings: Tan points above eyes, occasional "roe buck mark" on thigh
Size and Proportion
Gascon Saintongeois are large dogs with balanced proportions, existing in two varieties:
- Grand Gascon Saintongeois: 65-72 cm (25.6-28.3 in) for males; 61-66 cm (24-26 in) for females
- Petit Gascon Saintongeois: 56-62 cm (22-24.4 in) for males; slightly smaller for females
- Weight: 66-71 pounds for Grand; proportionally less for Petit
- Build: Athletic and powerful without being heavy
- Substance: Strong bone with ample muscle for endurance hunting
Temperament & Personality
The Gascon Saintongeois combines determination, affection, and hunting passion, creating a wonderful companion for the right owner.
Calm & Affectionate
Gascon Saintongeois are known for their calm, gentle temperament at home. They're affectionate with their family members and form strong bonds with their human companions.
Pack-Oriented
As a breed developed for pack hunting, these dogs thrive in social settings with other dogs. They're instinctively cooperative and work well in groups, whether hunting or living as pets.
Determined & Focused
These are determined hunters with remarkable scenting ability and persistence on the trail. Once they pick up a scent, they pursue it with single-minded dedication.
Even-Tempered
Gascon Saintongeois generally have stable temperaments and are not prone to sudden mood swings. They maintain composure in various situations when properly socialized.
Important Temperament Considerations
While Gascon Saintongeois are typically calm and affectionate at home, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals, so supervision is necessary around smaller pets. They are vocal dogs with a beautiful hunting voice that they may use when excited or on a scent. These dogs have high energy levels that require substantial daily exercise to prevent boredom and potential destructive behaviors. They thrive in environments where they have a job to do or regular opportunities to use their hunting abilities. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
The Gascon Saintongeois has high exercise requirements that reflect its heritage as an endurance hunter. Regular physical and mental stimulation is essential for a happy, well-adjusted dog.
Daily Exercise
90-120 Minutes
Vigorous daily exercise including brisk walks, jogging, or hiking. These dogs thrive on opportunities to explore and hit top speed in open spaces.
Ideal for running companions or active families with space.
Mental Stimulation
Daily
Scent work, tracking games, and puzzle toys provide essential mental exercise. Their exceptional noses need regular opportunities for sniffing and exploring.
Mental stimulation prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.
Activities & Sports
Weekly
Gascon Saintongeois excel at hunting trials, tracking, nose work, and coursing sports. These activities channel their natural abilities and strengthen the bond with owners.
Excellent for fulfilling natural instincts in a controlled environment.
Weekly Exercise Schedule
- Daily: 90-120 minutes of walking, jogging, or active play
- Daily: Scent work or tracking games for mental stimulation
- 4-5 times per week: More vigorous activity like running or hiking
- Weekly: Opportunities for off-leash exploration in secure areas
- Ongoing: Access to safe outdoor space for independent exploration
Exercise Considerations
Gascon Saintongeois are built for endurance and can work tirelessly throughout the day. Always use a leash or secure fencing when outdoors, as their strong hunting instincts may lead them to follow interesting scents for miles. These dogs have good stamina for various weather conditions thanks to their protective coats, but exercise should be moderated in extreme heat. Puppies require controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Mental stimulation through scent work is particularly important for this breed and can be incorporated into daily walks by allowing time for sniffing and exploration.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for the Gascon Saintongeois, supporting their active lifestyle and overall health while preventing obesity.
Puppy Diet
0-12 Months
High-quality puppy food formulated for large breeds, fed 3-4 times daily. Controlled growth is important for proper joint development in these substantial dogs.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for steady growth.
Adult Diet
1-7 Years
High-quality adult dog food with balanced protein and controlled calories. Adults typically need 4-5 cups daily, divided into two meals.
Adjust portions based on activity level and metabolism.
Senior Diet
7+ Years
Senior formula with joint support, controlled calories, and adjusted nutrient levels. Monitor weight as activity levels decrease with age.
Seniors may need smaller, more frequent meals.
Nutritional Requirements
- Protein: High-quality sources for muscle maintenance in active hunting dogs
- Fat: Moderate levels from quality sources for sustained energy during long hunts
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health in large, active dogs
- Omega Fatty Acids: Support skin and coat health
- Portion Control: Important to prevent weight gain, especially in less active individuals
Feeding Considerations
Gascon Saintongeois can be prone to obesity if overfed and underexercised. Measure food carefully and adjust portions based on activity level. These large, deep-chested dogs are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), so feed multiple small meals rather than one large meal and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating. Provide fresh water at all times. Dental health is important, so consider dental chews or teeth brushing. Active and working dogs may need significantly more calories than less active pets. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Health & Care
Gascon Saintongeois are generally healthy, robust dogs with a lifespan of 12-14 years. Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
Common Health Concerns
| Health Condition | Description | Prevention/Management |
|---|---|---|
| Ear Infections | Common in floppy-eared breeds due to reduced air circulation | Regular cleaning, keeping ears dry, monitoring for signs of infection |
| Bloat (GDV) | Life-threatening stomach twisting, common in deep-chested breeds | Multiple small meals, no vigorous exercise after eating, knowing emergency signs |
| Hip Dysplasia | Developmental condition affecting hip joints | Genetic screening, weight management, joint supplements |
| Joint Issues | General wear and tear on joints from active lifestyle | Weight management, joint supplements, moderate exercise |
Grooming Requirements
The Gascon Saintongeois's short, tight coat requires minimal maintenance to keep it healthy and looking its best.
Regular Brushing
1-2 Times Weekly
Brush with a slicker brush or finely bristled brush to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. More frequent brushing during seasonal shedding.
Low-maintenance coat except during shedding seasons.
Bathing & Maintenance
Monthly or As Needed
Bathing as needed with gentle dog shampoo. Regular ear cleaning is crucial for this breed. Nail trimming and dental care should also be routine.
Regular maintenance prevents health issues.
Ear Care
Weekly
Weekly ear cleaning with veterinarian-approved solution. Regular inspection for signs of infection, especially after swimming or bathing.
Essential for preventing infections in floppy-eared breeds.
Preventive Care
- Regular Veterinary Visits: Annual check-ups, more frequently for seniors
- Dental Care: Daily brushing and professional cleanings as needed
- Weight Management: Regular monitoring to prevent joint stress
- Ear Care: Weekly cleaning and inspection to prevent infections
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
Training & Behavior
Training a Gascon Saintongeois requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their intelligent but sometimes independent nature.
Training Approach
- Positive Reinforcement: Use reward-based training with high-value treats, praise, and play
- Consistency: Establish clear rules and expectations from the beginning
- Early Start: Begin training and socialization from 8-10 weeks old
- Patience: Allow extra time for these intelligent dogs to process commands
- Make it Meaningful: Connect training to practical purposes they understand
Socialization Needs
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Gascon Saintongeois:
- Puppy Classes: Enroll in puppy kindergarten for early socialization
- Various Environments: Expose to different people, places, and situations
- Other Animals: Supervised introductions to other pets with attention to prey drive
- Positive Experiences: Ensure new experiences are positive and not overwhelming
Training Tips
Gascon Saintongeois respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but may become bored with repetition. Make training rewarding and engaging to maintain their interest. Their hunting heritage means they have a very strong prey drive, so recall training should be prioritized and practiced regularly in secure areas. Early and ongoing training helps channel their energy and intelligence in positive directions. These dogs generally do much better the closer they are with their owner, and once fully trained, take command well when working.
Common Behavioral Issues
- Roaming Tendencies: Strong scent drive may lead them to wander if not contained
- Vocalization: May bay or howl, particularly when on a scent or left alone
- Destructiveness: If bored, under-exercised, or left alone for long periods
- Stubbornness: May resist training when stimulated by prey-like scents
- Weight Gain: Prone to obesity if exercise is insufficient
Living Environment
Gascon Saintongeois are adaptable dogs that thrive best in environments where their exercise and mental stimulation needs can be met.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Best suited for homes with large, securely fenced yards
- Climate: Tolerate various climates thanks to protective coat
- Indoor Access: Should live indoors as part of the family, not as outdoor-only dogs
- Outdoor Space: Secure yard essential for exercise and exploration
Family Compatibility
- Children: Excellent with children when properly socialized
- Other Dogs: Excellent with other dogs due to pack heritage
- Small Pets: Not recommended due to strong hunting instincts
- Active Owners: Ideal for runners, hikers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts
Important Considerations
Gascon Saintongeois are hunting dogs with strong instincts, so secure containment is essential. They should never be trusted off-leash in unsecured areas unless they have excellent recall training. Their calm nature at home makes them good house dogs, but their size and energy mean they need ample space. These dogs do not adapt well to apartment living and are not usually kept as companion dogs without adequate exercise opportunities. Their high energy level makes them unsuitable for sedentary lifestyles. They do best in homes where they're treated as companions and given opportunities to use their natural abilities through hunting, tracking, or dog sports.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Gascon Saintongeois is with an individual or family who:
- Has an active lifestyle with time for regular vigorous exercise
- Values a calm, affectionate companion with strong hunting instincts
- Can provide consistent training and mental stimulation
- Has experience with scent hounds or hunting breeds
- Has secure outdoor space or commitment to leash walking
Cost & Availability
Gascon Saintongeois are relatively rare even in France, with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200 - $2,000 | From reputable breeders; show or hunting quality at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $300 - $600 | From shelters or breed-specific rescues (very rare) |
| Initial Supplies | $400 - $700 | Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $300 - $600 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip |
| Training Classes | $150 - $400 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $700 - $1,000 for high-quality dog food for large breeds
- Veterinary Care: $500 - $900 for routine care and potential health issues
- Preventive Medications: $300 - $500 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $400 for ongoing classes or activities
- Miscellaneous: $300 - $600 for toys, treats, replacements
Availability
- Breeders: Very limited number of reputable breeders; extensive research required
- Rescues: Rarely available through shelters; breed-specific rescues uncommon
- Popularity: Uncommon even in France; known mainly to hunting enthusiasts
- Geographic Variation: Primarily found in France; may require international travel
- Waiting Period: Often significant wait for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Gascon Saintongeois but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
Grand Bleu de Gascogne
Parent breed of the Gascon Saintongeois with similar appearance and hunting style. Larger with distinctive blue mottled coat and similar gentle temperament.
English Foxhound
Similar pack-oriented scent hound with high energy and friendly disposition. Shares the Gascon Saintongeois's love for running and hunting in groups.
Poitevin
Another French scent hound with similar hunting heritage and pack mentality. Elegant appearance and strong hunting drive, though slightly more streamlined.
Billy
French scent hound known for elegance and hunting ability. Shares the Gascon Saintongeois's white coat with markings and similar hunting style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Gascon Saintongeois can be excellent family dogs for active households that understand their needs. They're known for their calm, affectionate temperament at home and are typically very good with children and other dogs. Their pack-oriented nature means they thrive as part of a family unit and enjoy participating in family activities. However, their high energy levels and need for substantial exercise mean they do best with families who can provide plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation. Their size also means they're better suited for families with older children who can handle a large, energetic dog.
The main difference is size and specific hunting็จ้. The Grand Gascon Saintongeois is larger (65-72 cm for males) and was originally used for hunting large game like wild boar, roe deer, and wolves. The Petit Gascon Saintongeois is smaller (56-62 cm for males) and was developed for hunting hare and rabbit, though it can also hunt larger game. Both varieties share the same fundamental temperament, appearance, and characteristics, with the Petit being essentially a scaled-down version of the Grand. The Petit variety was developed in the mid-20th century by selecting smaller individuals from Grand litters.
Gascon Saintongeois are intelligent and generally responsive to training, particularly when they have a close bond with their owner. However, their strong hunting instincts can sometimes make them stubborn when they catch an interesting scent. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and consistent training. Once fully trained, they take commands well, but their independent thinking when on a scent trail means recall training should be prioritized. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for this breed to ensure they develop into well-mannered adults.
Gascon Saintongeois have high exercise needs, requiring 90-120 minutes of vigorous activity daily. This should include opportunities for running in secure areas where they can hit top speed. They excel at activities that simulate hunting, such as chasing balls or participating in dog sports. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and potentially develop behavioral issues or obesity. Mental stimulation through scent work and training is equally important for this intelligent breed.
Gascon Saintongeois are not well-suited for apartment living due to their large size and high energy levels. They do best in homes with secure yards where they can exercise freely. While they can adapt to various living situations if their exercise needs are met, their size and energy make them better suited to homes with direct access to outdoor space. They are calm indoors when properly exercised but need room to move and stretch their legs.
Gascon Saintongeois typically get along very well with other dogs due to their pack heritage. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase smaller pets, including cats, rabbits, or other small animals. Early socialization is important to ensure positive interactions with other animals in the household. Supervision is always recommended when introducing them to smaller pets, and some individuals may never be completely trustworthy around small animals due to their strong prey drive.
The average lifespan of a Gascon Saintongeois is 12-14 years. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate nutrition, and adequate exercise, some individuals may live even longer. Their generally robust health contributes to their longevity, though like all large breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of, such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and bloat.
Gascon Saintongeois can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their high exercise needs, strong hunting instincts, and potential stubbornness. Their calm temperament at home is appealing, but their requirements for extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation may overwhelm novice owners. First-time owners who are very active, dedicated to training, and have experience with large dogs might succeed, but generally this breed is better suited for experienced dog owners familiar with scent hounds or hunting breeds.
Bottom Line: Is a Gascon Saintongeois Right for You?
The Gascon Saintongeois is a rare and noble breed that offers a wonderful combination of hunting ability, calm temperament, and elegant appearance. These French scent hounds carry themselves with grace and purpose that reflects their aristocratic heritage. Their high energy needs, intelligence, and generally good health make them appealing companions for active households with space. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their substantial exercise requirements, strong hunting instincts, and need for mental stimulation can be challenging for owners who want a low-maintenance pet. If you're looking for an intelligent, calm companion with a rich history and distinctive appearance, and you appreciate a dog who combines hunting ability with loyalty to family, the Gascon Saintongeois might be your perfect match. This historic breed rewards dedicated owners with years of companionship and the unique privilege of sharing your life with a true French hunting heritage dog.
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