Petopedia
Ariege Pointing Dog: Pointer of Ariege from 1915

Ariege Pointing Dog

Also known as Braque de l'Ariège · Ariege-Vorstehhund · Braco del Ariege

France, Continental Pointing Dogs

Size
Large
Height
56–67 cm
Weight
25–30 kg
Life expectancy
11–14 yrs
  • Gentle
  • Affectionate
  • Keen
  • Calm
Energy4 of 5
Grooming needs1 of 5
Trainability3 of 5

Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.

About the Ariege Pointing Dog

The Ariege Pointing Dog, known in France as the Braque de l'Ariège, is a continental pointing breed from the Ariège area in the Pyrenean foothills of south-western France. It was developed as a hunting dog that finds and points game birds. It is a solid, medium-large dog with drop ears, a short coat that is typically white with orange or liver markings.

Temperament

Typically gentle, calm and affectionate with a keen hunting drive. Usually friendly with family, and responsive to patient, reward-based handling. May be somewhat reserved with strangers.

Exercise

Needs a good amount of daily exercise, ideally with off-lead running in safe places and scent work. It suits an active home.

Grooming

A fine, short coat that a quick weekly going-over with a soft brush or hound glove keeps tidy. Trim the nails now and then, as dogs on soft ground wear them down less.

Care & wellbeing

Long drop ears need regular checking and cleaning. Active gundogs need enough exercise to prevent boredom.

Daily needs at a glance

For a typical 27.5 kg adult
Water
1.1 L–1.7 L
a day
Energy
≈ 1,350 kcal
a day, neutered adult
Exercise
90–120 min
a day
Grooming
An occasional brush is plenty

Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet

Living with a Ariege Pointing Dog

Shedding2 of 5
Good with children3 of 5
Apartment living1 of 5

Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.

History

A French pointing dog from the Ariège region of the Pyrenees foothills, developed for hunting game birds. Calm, steady and with a distinctive short coat, it is used mainly by hunters.

Health

There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Ariege Pointing Dog. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.

Not every Ariege Pointing Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.

Cost to keep

Higher than average
  • Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
  • Little or no professional grooming needed
  • A 11–14 year commitment

A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.

Is a Ariege Pointing Dog right for you?

Could suit

  • Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
  • People who'd rather not spend much time grooming

Think twice if

  • You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
  • You need a dog you can easily lift or carry

Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.

Common questions

How big does a Ariege Pointing Dog get?

Adult Ariege Pointing Dogs typically stand about 56–67 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.

How long do Ariege Pointing Dogs live?

Typically 11–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.

How much exercise does a Ariege Pointing Dog need?

As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.

How much grooming does a Ariege Pointing Dog need?

An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.

Are Ariege Pointing Dogs easy to train?

Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.

Do Ariege Pointing Dogs shed?

A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.

Are Ariege Pointing Dogs good with children?

Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.

Can a Ariege Pointing Dog live in a flat?

It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.

Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.

Breed details

Country of origin
France
Type
Continental Pointing Dogs
Internationally recognised
1955