Andrea Arden 
Poitevin
Poitevin: The Elegant French Wolfhound
Swift, Melodious, and Determined Hunter
The Poitevin, also known as the Chien de Haut-Poitou, is a distinguished French scenthound renowned for its exceptional hunting abilities, elegant appearance, and remarkable endurance. Developed in the Poitou region of France in the 17th century, this breed was specifically created to hunt wolves and has maintained its distinctive characteristics through centuries of dedicated preservation.
With its refined, athletic build that combines features of both sighthounds and scenthounds, the Poitevin stands as a testament to careful breeding for specific working traits. These dogs are known for their speed, stamina, and melodious voice while hunting, capable of reaching impressive speeds and maintaining pursuit for hours across challenging terrain.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Poitevin—from its fascinating history and distinctive characteristics to its care requirements and whether this elegant, determined breed might be the right choice for experienced hunting enthusiasts.
Basic Information
The Poitevin is a medium to large scent hound known for its refined, athletic build, exceptional hunting capabilities, and distinctive tricolor coat. These dogs are built for endurance and excel at tracking game across varied terrain in packs.
| Other Names | Chien de Haut-Poitou, Haut-Poitou |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Scenthound (UKC, FCI Group 6) |
| Origin | France (Poitou region) |
| Height | 24-28 inches (60-72 cm) at the withers |
| Weight | 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Coat | Short, dense, and glossy |
| Colors | Tricolor with black saddle, white and orange, or wolf-colored |
| Temperament | Aloof, independent, loyal, determined |
| Energy Level | Very High - requires extensive daily exercise |
| Good With | Other dogs (pack-oriented), experienced owners |
Did You Know?
The Poitevin is often called the "Greyhound among the French hounds" due to its remarkable speed and elegant, refined appearance. Packs have been known to reach speeds of 56 kilometers per hour (35 mph) and hunt for up to seven hours continuously. This breed's melodious, resonant voice was specifically developed to allow hunters to follow the pack's progress over great distances during hunts.
History and Origin
The Poitevin has a rich French heritage that dates back to the late 17th century, created specifically to address the problem of wolf predation in the Poitou region.
Development in France
The breed was officially developed in 1692 by François de Larrye, Marquis of Haut-Poitou, who crossed English Staghounds gifted to the Dauphin of France with local French hounds. The Marquis sought to create a dog with exceptional scenting ability, speed, stamina, and courage specifically for hunting wolves, which were significant predators at the time.
The resulting offspring were strong, athletic tricolored hounds that proved exceptionally effective at wolf hunting. In addition to the Larrye pack, two other packs of Poitevins were bred—the Montemboeuf and Céris—though these were considered inferior to the Larrye hounds and were typically bicolored (orange and white) rather than tricolored.
Near Extinction and Revival
The Poitevin faced near extinction on three separate occasions throughout its history. During the French Revolution in 1793, the Marquis de Larrye was beheaded and his pack dispersed. The breed was revived after the Revolution but then faced a devastating rabies outbreak in 1842 that nearly wiped out the remaining population. World War II again threatened the breed's existence. Each time, dedicated breeders worked to revive the Poitevin, sometimes introducing English Foxhound bloodlines to strengthen the gene pool before selectively breeding back toward the original type.
Breed Development Timeline
- 1692: Breed created by Marquis de Larrye using English Staghounds and local French hounds
- 1793: French Revolution nearly wipes out the breed
- 1842: Rabies outbreak devastates remaining population
- Mid-19th Century: English Foxhound introduced to strengthen bloodlines
- World War II: Breed numbers severely impacted again
- 1963: Recognized by Fédération Cynologique Internationale
- 1996: Recognized by United Kennel Club
- Present: Remains rare, primarily found in France
Appearance & Physical Traits
The Poitevin presents an elegant, athletic appearance that reflects its dual heritage as both a scenthound and sighthound, with a body built for both speed and endurance.
Physical Characteristics
- Body: Refined, athletic, and well-balanced with a deep chest and muscular build
- Head: Elongated with a flat, gently sloping skull and long, narrow tapering muzzle
- Eyes: Large, dark brown, expressive and intelligent with black rims
- Ears: Thin, set low and well back, medium-length and folded
- Nose: Well-developed, black with open nostrils
- Tail: Well-attached, thin, carried saber-fashion when active
- Coat: Short, dense, and glossy, providing protection in rough terrain
Coat and Colors
The Poitevin has a distinctive coat that is both functional and attractive:
- Coat Type: Short, dense, and glossy
- Texture: Fine but protective against vegetation
- Primary Coloring: Tricolor with black saddle
- Alternative Colors: White and orange, wolf-colored
- Markings: White extremities, including tail tip
- Special Features: All tricolor hounds are said to have Poitevin heritage
Size and Proportion
Poitevins are medium to large dogs with balanced proportions:
- Height: 24-28 inches (60-72 cm) at the withers
- Weight: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg)
- Build: Athletic and refined without being delicate
- Substance: Strong bone with ample muscle for endurance hunting
- Overall Impression: Elegant yet powerful, combining grace and strength
Temperament & Personality
The Poitevin combines determination, independence, and hunting passion, creating a specialized companion best suited for experienced hunting homes.
Aloof & Independent
Poitevins are known for their independent nature and are typically more aloof than many other hound breeds. They form strong bonds with their immediate family but show little interest in strangers.
Pack-Oriented
As a breed developed for pack hunting, these dogs thrive in social settings with other dogs. They're instinctively cooperative in hunting contexts and prefer canine companionship.
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 and courage.
Melodious Voice
Poitevins are famous for their deep, resonant, and carrying voice, which they use enthusiastically when on the trail. This trait was specifically bred to help hunters track the pack's progress.
Important Temperament Considerations
While Poitevins are typically calm and determined workers, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals, so they are not recommended for homes with cats or other small pets. They are vocal dogs with a powerful, carrying voice that they use when excited or on a scent, which may not be suitable for residential neighborhoods. These dogs have extremely 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. Their independent nature and strong will make them challenging for novice owners.
Temperament Traits
Exercise & Activity Needs
The Poitevin has extremely high exercise requirements that reflect its heritage as an endurance hunter capable of working all day across challenging terrain.
Daily Exercise
90-120 Minutes
Vigorous daily exercise including running, jogging, or hiking. These dogs thrive on opportunities to explore and use their exceptional scenting abilities over large areas.
Essential for physical and mental wellbeing.
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
Poitevins 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 vigorous running or hiking
- Daily: Scent work or tracking games for mental stimulation
- 4-5 times per week: Off-leash running in secure areas
- Weekly: Opportunities for extended hunting or tracking activities
- Ongoing: Access to safe outdoor space for independent exploration
Exercise Considerations
Poitevins are built for endurance and can work tirelessly throughout the day, with packs known to travel up to 60 km (37 miles) in a single day of hunting. Always use a leash or secure fencing when outdoors, as their strong hunting instincts may lead them to follow interesting scents for miles without hesitation. These dogs have good stamina for various weather conditions thanks to their protective coats, but exercise should be moderated in extreme heat. Mental stimulation through scent work is particularly important for this breed and should be incorporated into daily routines. Their high energy level makes them unsuitable for sedentary lifestyles or small living spaces.
Diet & Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for the Poitevin, supporting their active lifestyle and overall health while providing energy for their endurance activities.
Puppy Diet
0-18 Months
High-quality puppy food formulated for large breeds, fed 3-4 times daily. Controlled growth is important for proper joint development in these active dogs.
Puppies need frequent, measured meals for steady growth.
Adult Diet
1.5-7 Years
High-quality adult dog food with balanced protein and controlled calories. Adults typically need 3-4 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 activity
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health in active dogs
- Omega Fatty Acids: Support skin and coat health
- Portion Control: Important to prevent weight gain, especially in less active individuals
Feeding Considerations
Poitevins can be prone to obesity if overfed and underexercised. Measure food carefully and adjust portions based on activity level. These active dogs may need significantly more calories during hunting seasons than during off-seasons. Provide fresh water at all times, especially after vigorous exercise. Dental health is important, so consider dental chews or teeth brushing. Working dogs engaged in hunting may need high-performance formulas with increased caloric density. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Health & Care
Poitevins are generally healthy, robust dogs with a lifespan of 10-12 years. As a working breed with diverse genetic background, they have few breed-specific health concerns.
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 |
| Hip Dysplasia | Developmental condition affecting hip joints | Genetic screening, weight management, joint supplements |
| Eye Problems | Various eye conditions can occur | Regular eye exams, monitoring for changes |
Grooming Requirements
The Poitevin's short, dense coat requires minimal maintenance to keep it healthy and looking its best.
Regular Brushing
1-2 Times Weekly
Brush with a slicker brush or bristle 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. 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
- Parasite Prevention: Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Vaccinations: Keep up to date with core vaccinations
Training & Behavior
Training a Poitevin requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their intelligent but strongly 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 independent dogs to process commands
- Make it Meaningful: Connect training to practical purposes they understand
Socialization Needs
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial for Poitevins:
- 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
Poitevins 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 when trained for specific working purposes rather than general obedience. Their independent nature when on a scent means extra patience is needed during training.
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
- Separation Anxiety: Can develop when left alone without canine companions
Living Environment
Poitevins are specialized dogs that thrive best in environments where their exercise needs and working instincts can be properly accommodated.
Ideal Home Setup
- Space: Best suited for homes with large, securely fenced yards or rural properties
- 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: Best with older children who understand dog boundaries; not recommended for families with young children
- Other Dogs: Excellent with other dogs due to pack heritage
- Small Pets: Not recommended due to strong hunting instincts
- Active Owners: Ideal for hunters, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts
Important Considerations
Poitevins 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 aloof nature and independence mean they are not typically affectionate companion dogs. These dogs do not adapt well to apartment living and are not usually kept as pets without adequate exercise opportunities. Their high energy level and substantial exercise requirements make them unsuitable for sedentary lifestyles. They do best in homes where they're kept with other dogs and given regular opportunities to use their natural abilities through hunting, tracking, or dog sports.
Best Living Situation
The ideal home for a Poitevin is with an individual or family who:
- Has an active lifestyle with time for extensive daily exercise
- Values a determined hunting companion over an affectionate pet
- Can provide consistent training and mental stimulation
- Has experience with independent scenthounds or hunting breeds
- Has secure outdoor space and opportunity for hunting activities
Cost & Availability
Poitevins are relatively rare even in their native France, with specific considerations regarding cost and availability.
Initial Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $800 - $1,500 | From reputable breeders; hunting lines typically at higher end |
| Adoption Fee | $200 - $500 | From shelters or breed-specific rescues (very rare) |
| Initial Supplies | $300 - $600 | Crate, bed, bowls, collar, leash, grooming tools |
| Initial Vet Care | $200 - $500 | Exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchip |
| Training Classes | $150 - $400 | Puppy kindergarten and basic obedience |
Annual Costs
- Food: $500 - $800 for high-quality dog food
- Veterinary Care: $400 - $700 for routine care and potential health issues
- Preventive Medications: $200 - $400 for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Training/Activities: $200 - $500 for ongoing classes or hunting activities
- Miscellaneous: $200 - $500 for toys, treats, replacements
Availability
- Breeders: Very limited number of reputable breeders; primarily in France
- Rescues: Rarely available through shelters; breed-specific rescues uncommon
- Popularity: Uncommon even in France; known mainly to hunting enthusiasts
- Geographic Variation: Primarily found in Europe; may require international travel
- Waiting Period: Often significant wait for puppies from reputable breeders
Similar Breeds
If you're interested in the Poitevin but want to explore similar breeds, consider these alternatives:
English Foxhound
Similar pack-oriented scent hound with high energy and friendly disposition. Shares the Poitevin's love for running and hunting in groups but is typically more people-oriented.
Grand Anglo-Français Tricolore
Developed with Poitevin heritage, this breed shares similar hunting instincts and tricolor appearance. Slightly more adaptable as a companion while maintaining strong hunting drive.
Billy
Another French scent hound known for elegance and hunting ability. Shares the Poitevin's endurance and determination but may be slightly more adaptable to companion life.
Harrier
Medium-sized scent hound with similar energy levels and pack mentality. Shares the Poitevin's determination but in a slightly smaller, potentially more manageable package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Poitevins are not typically recommended as family pets, especially for families with young children. They are aloof, independent dogs that form strong bonds with their immediate family but show little interest in strangers or casual interaction. Their high energy levels, strong hunting instincts, and need for extensive exercise make them challenging in a typical family setting. They are best suited for hunting homes or with very experienced owners who understand and can accommodate their specialized nature.
Poitevins are vocal dogs with a distinctive, melodious voice that they use enthusiastically when on the trail or when excited. They are not excessive barkers in the home when properly exercised and stimulated, but they will vocalize when they catch an interesting scent or when left alone for long periods. Their voice is powerful and carries over long distances, which was specifically bred into them for hunting purposes. This means they may not be suitable for homes with close neighbors who would be disturbed by their vocalizations.
Poitevins are intelligent but challenging to train due to their independent nature and strong hunting instincts. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and consistent training from experienced handlers. Their hunting heritage means they have a very strong prey drive, which can make recall training particularly challenging. They are capable learners but may become bored with repetition and often prioritize following interesting scents over obeying commands. Patience and consistency are essential when training this breed.
Poitevins have extremely high exercise needs, requiring 90-120 minutes of vigorous activity daily. This should include opportunities for running in secure areas where they can use their exceptional scenting abilities. They excel at activities that simulate hunting, such as tracking games or participating in dog sports. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and potentially develop behavioral issues or destructiveness. Their endurance means they can keep going long after other breeds would tire, so owners need to be prepared to meet their substantial activity requirements.
Poitevins are not suitable for apartment living due to their large size, high energy levels, and substantial exercise requirements. They do best in homes with secure yards or rural properties where they can exercise freely. They are calm indoors when properly exercised but need ample space to move and stretch their legs. Their powerful, carrying voice may also be problematic in close living quarters with neighbors. They are truly a breed that thrives in country settings with access to large outdoor areas.
Poitevins typically get along very well with other dogs due to their pack heritage and actually prefer canine companionship. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase smaller pets, including cats, rabbits, or other small animals. Early socialization is important but may not override their natural prey drive. Supervision is always recommended when introducing them to smaller pets, and most individuals will never be completely trustworthy around small animals due to their strong hunting instincts. They generally do best in homes with other medium to large dogs.
The average lifespan of a Poitevin is 10-12 years. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate nutrition, and adequate exercise, some individuals may live longer. Their generally robust health contributes to their longevity, though like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of, such as ear infections and hip dysplasia. Regular preventive care and maintaining a healthy weight can help maximize their lifespan and quality of life.
Poitevins are not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their strong independence, high exercise needs, strong hunting instincts, and challenging trainability. Their aloof nature and specialized requirements make them better suited for experienced dog owners familiar with scenthounds or hunting breeds. First-time owners would likely find their stubbornness and energy levels overwhelming. This breed truly thrives in hunting homes or with owners who have extensive experience with similar independent working breeds.
Bottom Line: Is a Poitevin Right for You?
The Poitevin is a rare and specialized breed that offers exceptional hunting ability, elegant appearance, and remarkable endurance. These French scenthounds carry themselves with grace and purpose that reflects their working heritage. Their high energy needs, intelligence, and generally good health make them appealing companions for active hunting households. However, they're not the right choice for everyone. Their substantial exercise requirements, strong hunting instincts, aloof nature, and need for mental stimulation can be challenging for owners who want a conventional pet. If you're looking for an intelligent, determined hunting companion with a rich history and distinctive appearance, and you appreciate a dog who combines hunting prowess with loyalty to their immediate circle, the Poitevin might be your perfect match. This historic breed rewards dedicated hunting enthusiasts with years of unparalleled performance in the field and the unique privilege of sharing your life with a true French hunting heritage dog.
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