The Ariege Pointer is a breed of dog that
descends from a French breed, the Saint-Germain pointer. This
is an old breed from the South-West of France, and it had almost
disappered prior to the First World War. Fortunately, a few
breeders decided to revive the breed from the few remaining
specimens, and today's breed closely resembles the original.
Appearance
Braccoïd type. Its construction is powerful but without
excessive heaviness, robust and of strong appearance. Its white
coat mottled with pale orange or sometimes flecked with brown,
together with his size, makes him an elegant distinguished looking
dog. It is solidly built, with a wide, deep chest, a back that
is slightly convex in shape. It is well suited to hunting wild
hare and partridge.
Temperament
This robust, very energetic dog with an excellent sense of smell
is a skilled retriever, is suitable for all kinds of hunting.
Quick and energectic, itr is also very independent so needs
firm training, however it is docile and easy to train. It needs
spaced and exercise as well as regular brushing.
History
The Ariège Pointer is issued from the old French Braques,
which in the 19th century, were crossed with Braques of Meridional
(Southern) stock of white and orange coat, to give them more
lightness and activity. A few Ariègeois huntsmen continued
to use it, which avoided a complete disappearance of the breed.
In 1990 a team of breeders decided to devote themselves to its
survival. In particular we have Mr. Alain Deteix to thank for
the survival of the breed. He headed that team of breeders ands
wholeheartedly devoted himself to the revival of part of France's
National heritage.