French Spaniel
Also known as Epagneul Français · Französicher Spaniel · Spaniel Francés
France, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 55–61 cm
- Weight
- 20–25 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Affectionate
- Eager to please
- Sensitive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the French Spaniel
The French Spaniel, or Epagneul Francais, is a French pointing dog that is spaniel-like in type. It is a medium-large, sturdy dog with a long, silky, feathered coat, usually brown and white, and is mainly used for game birds. Gentle and eager to please, it is often more sensitive than other gundogs.
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate and eager to please, usually good with family. It is keen to work and sensitive. It has a calm manner indoors.
Exercise
Needs an hour or two a day, with off-lead running, scent work and retrieving. It enjoys using its nose on varied ground.
Grooming
Silky, feathered coat that needs brushing two to three times a week, with attention to ears and legs.
Care & wellbeing
Feathering on the legs and ears collects burrs and damp, so comb through after country walks. Use gentle, encouraging training, as this sensitive dog responds poorly to harshness.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 22.5 kg adult- Water
- 900 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,160 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
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 French Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
An old French gundog descended from the spaniels used in France in the Middle Ages, developed to find and retrieve game birds. It is a gentle and affectionate dog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
Not every French Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a French Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a French Spaniel get?
Adult French Spaniels typically stand about 55–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–25 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do French Spaniels live?
Typically 12–14 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 French Spaniel 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 French Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are French Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do French Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are French Spaniels good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a French Spaniel live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do French Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every French Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
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