Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir
The black and white coat of the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir differentiates it from the other Grand Anglo Français’ hounds, including the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Orange and the Grand Anglo-Français Tricolore. Having been developed from a mix of French and English scenting dogs over the years, this handsome pooch possesses their characteristic pendulous ears and soulful brown eyes, as well as the robust and athletic body of a working hound.
Hunted in remarkably large packs, which can contain up to 100 dogs, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir is confident in the company of other canines, though does tolerate humans well and is known for being placid and obedient. Not commonly kept as a pet, anyone considering purchasing this breed should ensure they can provide a suitable home.
About & History
One of several Grand Anglo-Français hounds, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir is distinguished by its black and white colouring. The term ‘grand’ (or ‘big’ in French) is a reference to the size of the prey it hunts, rather than its stature. In a nod to its origins, the term 'Anglo-Français’ serves as a reminder that this breed was originally developed from the English Foxhound and a number of French Scent Hounds. It is widely believed that the Saintongeois Hound was bred in to the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir at some stage down the line.
Historically bred to hunt deer and boar, this is a versatile hound that can also be worked with smaller game, including foxes. Traditionally, this is a breed that works best in a large pack. A very capable hound, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir works well over varied and bushy terrains and in most weather conditions. They rely on their superior sense of smell to track down their prey.
Currently recognised by the UKC within their scent hound group, this is a rare breed with roughly 2,000 individual breed members currently registered. These dogs are working dogs and this is not a breed that is kept as a pet or a show animal. Outside of France, there are reports of a small number of Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir dogs that have been exported over the years.
Appearance
The Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir should give you the impression of a dog that is sturdily-built and powerful, without being overly-muscular or ‘fleshy’. Their short head is composed of a level skull and an obvious stop that leads to a relatively long muzzle. Their upper lips hang down to cover their lower lips and their teeth should form a scissors bite.
Their nose must be black in colour with wide nostrils, while their eyes are a dark brown. The ears stem from the level of the eyes and are wide, though do narrow to a point at the tip. Their powerful neck may have a subtle dewlap of skin. Their chest is broad and their straight back leads to a sloping croup. Their forelimbs are straight and densely-boned while their strong, parallel hind-limbs bend at the hocks. Their paws are quite large and rounded, though still allow for an effortless gait. The tail of this dog is strong at the base and tapers to a point.
Though the coat of the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir is short, it is dense enough to offer good protection from the great outdoors. The fur should be white and black, though some tan markings are allowed, for example, above the eyes. Tan markings should not be too vivid.
To the withers, males stand at 65cm to 72cm, while the slightly shorter females will reach heights of 62cm to 68cm. Dogs weighing 1cm above or below the standard are accepted in the show ring. Though not mentioned in their breed standard, most dogs will weigh around 30-35kg.
Character & Temperament
A pack dog, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir is not designed to be a family pet that lazes on the sofa with children and gets brought on short daily walks. This is an energetic and driven hound that loves nothing more than to be outdoors and hunting with its canine companions. When hunting, this is a resilient and courageous dog that is always eager to go.
When around people, this breed can be quite reserved and aloof. They have a reputation for being easy to handle and friendly with their master. While they are not generally thought to be an aggressive dog, they should not be trusted around young and boisterous children. Their acceptance of children can be improved by ensuring that they are exposed to them from puppyhood. Not particularly mischievous or fun to be around, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir tends to prefer work to play.
When it comes to its behaviour with other animals, this dog is happiest in the company of other dogs and feels at home when in its pack. Attempting to house a Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir with smaller pets, such as ferrets or guinea pigs, would be completely ill-advised. Smaller animals are seen as prey to this dog and would likely be chased and attacked.
Trainability
As this is a dog that is really only used to hunt, little is known about its skills in other areas, though one would assume that they would be adequate. They are natural born hunters and need little in the way of instruction when it comes to this job.
A breed that has always been kenneled outside alongside other dogs, it may take some extra time and patience to teach the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir to act sensibly within the home.
While this breed can be vocal and will likely give a verbal warning to any new person that arrives in the home, it would be difficult to train them to become an actual watch or guard dog, as they are not naturally hostile or confrontational.
Health
Though there are no specific health studies that have been carried out on the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir, it is likely that they experience similar issues to the other Grand Anglo-Français hounds. All of these breeds are generally thought of as fit and healthy, usually living to about 10-12 years old. The following diseases should be monitored for within the population:
Hip Dysplasia
Poorly formed hips will affect a dog for the duration of their life, causing reduced mobility, stiffness and pain. Though medication and lifestyle changes can ameliorate symptoms, prevention is better than cure, and breeding animals should be hip-scored to reduce the chances of hip dysplasia being passed on to new generations.
Ear Infections
Ear infections tend to occur in long, droopy ears that have poor airflow and become moist and humid on the inside. By keeping ears dry and cleaning them out every week, the incidence of infection can be greatly reduced.
Exercise and Activity Levels
Of course a dog that has been specifically bred to hunt for hours on end would be expected to have very high exercise requirements, and the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir is no exception. A tenacious hunter, this breed carries out its work with a real passion and dedication, always keen to find their prey. The ideal home for this breed would be with a family that actively hunts and has the facilities to keep large packs of dogs.
During the off season, or if hunting is out of the question, there are other potential activities that could keep this breed satisfied. Scent work is probably the best alternative to actual hunting, allowing them to use their nose and brain, while keeping physically fit. When off the lead, a Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir would be unable to ignore a tempting scent, so owners should be aware of the potential for a chase at any time.
Grooming
An easy breed to care for when it comes to their routine maintenance, the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir should only be brushed once weekly. This brushing will help to remove any dead skin cells and fur, as well as to spread the dog’s natural oils and prevent clogged follicles.
In working dogs, the claws will usually keep themselves short, but some dogs may require mini claw trims in between hunting seasons. It is essential that the ears of the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir are checked regularly to ensure they have not developed any infections. This is particularly necessary if the dog swims or gets wet on a regular basis, as excess moisture within the ear canal can encourage fungal and bacterial growth.
Famous Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir
An uncommon dog, there are no celebrity examples of the Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir.
Cross-Breeds
There are no popular Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et Noir cross-breeds.