Artois Hound

A French hound recovered from decline

The Artois Hound's FCI history recalls a dog formerly called Picard, valued in French hunting accounts during the reigns of Henri IV and Louis XIII. Later writers described efforts to retain its type as crossing made older lines harder to find.

After the Second World War the breed was thought to have disappeared. The account credits renewed work by Audrechy and Pilat during the 1970s with rebuilding it. That recovery is part of the history of FCI breed 28, rather than evidence for a precise current population.

A sturdy outline beneath tricolour hair

The standard describes a muscular dog giving an impression of strength and energy without an excessively long body. Short, thick tricolour hair lies close to the skin. The photograph is specifically identified as a puppy, so it illustrates the breed without serving as a guide to mature proportions.

A persistent nose with a sociable ideal

Pack work and scent persistence are central to the breed account. Provide safe opportunities to investigate and practise checking in with the handler. An affectionate standard description is not a guarantee of recall, universal dog friendliness or comfort in a busy grooming environment.

Short coat, regular observation

A gentle grooming session can remove loose hair and reveal small scratches or equipment rubbing. Check feet after rough or muddy ground and inspect ears externally. Reward calm cooperation and let a groomer know how the individual responds to unfamiliar handling before booking care.

Plan comfortable care

Our gentle coat-care guide and first grooming appointment guide help you prepare questions about handling, maintenance and a suitable service. This breed profile is independent of named businesses.

Photograph and sources

The photograph illustrates one Artois Hound. See the linked credit for its creator, source and reusable licence. It does not establish the dog's health, age or temperament.

Read the FCI catalogue entry and FCI breed standard. General care and handling guidance is available from PDSA and Dogs Trust.

Character and behaviour

The FCI describes a vigorous, persistent scent worker with an affectionate, balanced ideal and an ability to work with a pack. Individual experience still matters around other dogs and wildlife. Secure exploration and rewarding handler contact are sensible everyday priorities.

Breed descriptions are broad tendencies. An individual dog's behaviour also reflects experience, training and circumstances.

Care in daily life

Use gentle grooming to check the coat, feet and the outside of the ears after walks. Practise quiet body and collar handling and provide a comfortable standing surface. Seek help for painful skin or tight debris rather than pulling at the dog to finish a session.

Care depends on the individual dog. If you notice a skin or health problem, speak to a vet.