When it comes to dogs, the French know a thing or two. In fact, some of the most popular dog breeds in the world come from France. From the shaggy-coated Berger Picard to the elegant Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, French dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes.
But what do they all have in common? Well, for starters, they’re all incredibly charming. After all, there’s nothing quite like being greeted by a wagging tail and a big ‘ole smile. But more than that, French dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and courage. In other words, they make the perfect companion.
So whether you’re looking for a cuddly lapdog or an adventurous hiking buddy, you’re sure to find the perfect match among these popular French dog breeds.
1) French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small domestic French dog breed. They are the product of crossbreeding Toy Bulldogs from England and ratter dogs in France. They were popular among thread and needleworkers in Nottingham, England, and eventually made their way to France with these same workers.
The main difference between the French Bulldog and the English Bulldog is their size; French Bulldogs are about 1/3 the size of their English counterpart. Because of their smaller size, they were better suited for city living and became quite popular as companion animals. In addition, they are known for their affectionate nature and even disposition, making them excellent family pets.
While they do require some special care due to their short noses and flat faces, they are generally healthy dogs with long lifespans. With their silly antics and loving personalities, it’s no wonder the French Bulldog has become one of the most popular bulldog breeds in the world.
2) Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a hunting dog of southern France. The name “Basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” and refers to the dog’s low build and long ears. Basset hounds are scent hounds, and their keen sense of smell makes them excellent tracking dogs.
They were originally bred for hunting hares, but they are mostly kept as companions today. Basset Hounds are gentle, good-natured dogs known for their loud, baying howl. They are also very loyal and patient, making them great family pets.
However, their hunting instincts can sometimes get the better of them, and they have been known to chase smaller animals like cats and rabbits. If you’re looking for a lovable, laid-back companion, the Basset Hound may be the perfect dog.
3) Poodle
The Poodle is one of teacup dog breeds that is also known as the “French Poodle”. While the breed originated in Germany, it gained its French name due to its popularity among the aristocracy in France.
Poodles are prized for their intelligence, elegant appearance, and compatibility with various lifestyles. Standard poodles can weigh up to 70 pounds, while miniature poodles typically weigh under 20 pounds. The coat of a poodle can be either curly or corded and is often clipped into an iconic pompom trim.
Poodles are active dogs that require regular exercise, but their low-shedding coats make them an excellent choice for people with allergies. So whether you’re looking for a furry companion or a skilled show dog, the Poodle is sure to fit the bill.
4) Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French Mastiff, is a large dog breed that originated in France. Bred to be a working dog, the Dogue de Bordeaux is powerful and muscular, with a large head and short coat.
While they are loyal and protective of their families, they are also good-natured and gentle, making them excellent companion dogs. Historically, the Dogue de Bordeaux has been used for hunting, guard work, and as a draft animal.
Today, they are primarily kept as pets, although they still retain their working instincts and can make excellent watchdogs. The Dogue de Bordeaux can be a loving addition to any family with proper training and socialization.
5) French Spaniel
The French Spaniel is a breed of gun dog developed in France. Initially used for hunting quail and partridge, the French Spaniel is an excellent tracker and pointer. They are also well-suited for retrieving game birds from the water.
Today, the French Spaniel is a popular companion dog, known for its gentle temperament and trainability. They are medium-sized dogs with long, silky ears and dense, wavy coats. The breed standard calls for a height of 21-24 inches and 40-60 pounds.
French Spaniels come in various colors, including black, white, brown, and orange. French Spaniels can live up to 12 years old with proper care and nutrition.
6) Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a large breed of dog that originated in the Pyrenees Mountains of Europe. Also known as the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, this breed was historically used as a livestock guardian, helping to protect sheep and other animals from predators.
Today, the Great Pyrenees is still used for this purpose in many parts of the world, and it’s also a popular companion dog. Standing up to 32 inches tall at the shoulder, the Great Pyrenees is an imposing figure. However, despite its large size, this breed is known for being gentle and even-tempered. Great Pyrenees are loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs.
They are also relatively easy to train and can be good with children if socialized properly. If you are looking for a large and loyal companion, the Great Pyrenees may be the perfect breed.
7) Pyrenean Shepherd
Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a herding dog that hails from the French Pyrenees mountains. These dogs are highly intelligent and have a strong work ethic, making them well-suited for herding sheep and other livestock.
Pyrenean Shepherds are also known for their loyalty and affection, and they make excellent family pets. However, their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean that they are not suited for everyone.
Potential owners should be prepared to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and training. The breed is also relatively easy to train and is often used in agility competitions.
Although they are not well known in the United States, the Pyrenean Shepherd is a popular breed in Europe and has even been featured on French postage stamps. A Pyrenean Shepherd can make an excellent addition to the family with the right owner.
8) Grand Bleu de Gascogne
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a large, blue-grey hound originally from southwest France. Bred to hunt wild boar and deer, the Grand Bleu has a robust and powerful build and a keen sense of smell. Historically, the breed was also used for dogfighting, but this practice has since been outlawed.
The Grand Bleu is an energetic breed that needs plenty of exercise; they are not well suited to apartment living. Grand Bleus are gentle and good-natured with family members, but they can be aloof and reserved around strangers. However, if properly socialized from an early age, they will usually get along well with other dogs and pets.
The Grand Bleu de Gascogne coat is short and dense, with a thick undercoat to protect against the elements. The breed’s most distinctive feature is its blue-grey coloring; this unique color is the result of a genetic mutation. Today, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne is still popular in France as a hunting dog, and the breed has also gained popularity in other parts of Europe and North America.
9) Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a small scent hound that originated in the Vendée region of France. PBGVs are active and cheerful dogs that love to be around people. They are excellent family pets and get along well with children and other animals. In addition, PBGVs are relatively easy to train and make great hunting dogs.
They have a strong sense of smell and are used to track both small game and large game such as deer. PBGVs stand between 13-15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 20-40 pounds. They have short, coarse hair white with black or brown markings. The coat requires little grooming and is relatively easy to care for. PBGVs are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 12-14 years.
Overall, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen is a friendly, energetic dog that makes a great companion for active families.
10) Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small-sized hound originally bred in France for hunting rabbits and hare. The breed is known for its short legs, making it well-suited for tracking game through dense underbrush.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is also distinguished by its short, coarse coat, typically fawn or brindled in color. Today, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is still used as a hunting dog in France. Still, it has also become a popular companion animal in other parts of Europe and North America.
Thanks to its friendly nature and devotion to its family, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne makes an excellent pet for active households.
11) Barbet
The Barbet is a medium-sized water dog with a long, shaggy coat of black, brown, or fawn in color. The Barbet is a French dog; however, there are some debates regarding its origin. The Barbet is one of the oldest French dog breeds, if not the oldest.
A close relative of the Poodle, the Barbet is an intelligent and affectionate breed well suited to active families. However, while they are generally good with children, Barbets can be wary of strangers and make excellent watchdogs.
As their name suggests, Barbets love water and make excellent swimming companions. They are also active dogs that require plenty of exercise, making them best suited to homes with large yards or nearby parks. The Barbet is a low-maintenance breed that makes a loyal and loving companion with regular grooming.
12) Papillon
The Papillon is a small, friendly dog well-suited for apartment living. Originally from France, the Papillon is one of the oldest breeds of toy dogs. The breed gets its name from the French word for “butterfly,” which refers to the distinctive shape of its ears.
The Papillon is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. They are also known for being very affectionate with their owners. While they are generally good with other dogs and children, they can be jealous of other pets in the home if they feel like they are not getting enough attention. Because of their small size, papillons do not require a lot of exercise.
However, they do require some activity every day to stay happy and healthy. Overall, the Papillon is a great companion for someone looking for a loving and low-maintenance pet.
13) Briard
The Briard is a large herding dog that originated in France. The breed is also known as the Pastor de Brie, after the region where they were first bred. Briards were used as working dogs on farms, and they were also used as guard dogs and soldiers during wartime.
Today, Briards are still used as working dogs on farms, but they are also popular as companion animals. Briards are very intelligent and trainable, but they can also be stubborn and headstrong. They require a lot of exercise and need to be kept busy, or they may become bored and destructive. Briards are loyal and protective of their families, and they make excellent watchdogs.
Please know that they can also be wary of strangers and may be aggressive toward other dogs if not properly socialized. Briards are relatively rare in the United States, but they make wonderful pets for active families who are willing to invest the time and effort into training them.
14) Beauceron
The Beauceron is a large, short-haired dog breed originating in France. Also known as the Berger de Beauce or the Beauce Shepherd, the Beauceron is classified as a working dog by the American Kennel Club.
Originally bred for herding and guarding sheep, the Beauceron is still used for these purposes in some parts of the world. However, they also make excellent companion animals and are increasingly being adopted as pets.
Their loyal and protective nature makes them ideal guard dogs, but their gentle disposition makes them good with children. So if you’re looking for a faithful and loving companion, the Beauceron may be the perfect breed.
15) Brittany Dog
The Brittany is a breed of dog native to the Brittany region of northwestern France. Brittanys are popular hunting dogs, and their versatile nature has made them suitable for a variety of other activities. Brittanys are relatively small dogs, typically weighing between 30 and 40 pounds.
They have short coats that come in various colors, including orange and white, liver and white, and black and white. The breed is known for its high energy level and athletic build, making them well-suited for hiking, biking, and swimming. Brittanys are also intelligent dogs, and they are relatively easy to train.
As a result, they make good pets for families with children. However, if you are looking for an active dog and easy to train, the Brittany may be your best breed.
16) Berger Picard
The Berger Picard is a rare breed of dog that originates from the Picardy region of France. Bred as a working dog, the Berger Picard is an intelligent and active breed that is well-suited for various tasks.
One of the most distinguishing features of the Berger Picard is its coat, which is rough and dense, with a wooly undercoat. The coat comes in various colors, including brindle, fawn, and black. Berger Picards are also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.
While they can be independent at times, they are typically very loving toward their family and make excellent companions. Unfortunately, due to their rarity, Berger Picards can be pretty expensive. However, for those looking for a loyal and loving friend, the Berger Picard may be the perfect breed.
17) Griffon Nivernais
The Griffon Nivernais is a large, powerful dog that was initially bred for hunting in the forests of France. Today, the breed is still used for hunting and personal protection and as a guard dog. The Griffon Nivernais is a brave and determined dog loyal to its family.
It’s also an intelligent breed that is easy to train. The Griffon Nivernais is a large dog, with males standing up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and females standing up to 26 inches tall. The breed has a short, coarse coat, typically orange-brown or grizzle-colored. The Griffon Nivernais is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. As a result, it is not well suited to life in an apartment or other small space.
The Griffon Nivernais is a healthy breed with few major health concerns. However, like all dogs, it is susceptible to minor health issues, including hip dysplasia and ear infections. Nevertheless, Griffon Nivernais can live 10-12 years with proper care and nutrition.
18) Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a large hound breed originally from France. The breed is best known for its extraordinary sense of smell, which is the strongest of any dog breed. Bloodhounds are used by law enforcement and search-and-rescue teams to track down missing persons, and they have also been known to assist in tracking down fugitive criminals.
Despite their size, the Bloodhound’s gentle and affectionate nature makes them a popular family pet. They are also relatively easy to train, although their independent streak requires patience and consistency from their owners. Bloodhounds typically live for 10-12 years and are relatively healthy compared to other breeds of similar size.
Despite their name, Bloodhounds do not actually have an affinity for blood; their name likely comes from the Old French word “bluet,” meaning “dark.”
19) Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie
The Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie is a type of hunting dog developed in France during the 19th century. The breed is a cross between the English Foxhound and the French Basset Hound and was originally used for hunting small game such as hare and rabbit.
Today, the Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie is still used for hunting but is also popular as a companion canine. The breed is medium in size, with a short coat that can be either tricolored or bi-colored.
They are an active breed that requires regular exercise and are known for their gentle and even temperaments. So if you’re looking for a versatile hunting dog with a calm disposition, the Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie may be the breed for you.
20) Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, white dog with a cheerful disposition. Bred initially in the Mediterranean region, the Bichon was popular among sailors and traders. The breed eventually made its way to France, becoming a favorite of nobles and royal families.
In the 19th century, the Bichon was introduced to America and quickly became a popular pet. Today, the Bichon Frise is still prized for its affectionate nature and playful personality. Although they are relatively easy to care for, Bichons require regular grooming to maintain their distinctive appearance.
A Bichon Frise can be a loyal and loving companion for many years with proper care.
21) Artois Hound
The Artois Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog that is typically used for hunting rabbits and hares. The breed originated in France and is named for the province of Artois.
Artois Hounds are descendants of the Bloodhound and have many of the same physical characteristics, including a large head, long ears, and a wrinkled brow. They are also known for their deep, melodious bark. Artois Hounds are gentle and even-tempered, making them good family pets.
However, they require a lot of exercise and may not be suitable for apartments or other small living spaces. On the other hand, if you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, the Artois Hound may be the right breed.
22) Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a small breed of dog that originates from Germany. Affenpinscher comes from the German word “affen,” meaning monkey, and “pinscher,” meaning terrier. This breed is also known by the French as “diablotin moustachu,” which translates to “mustached little devil.”
The Affenpinscher is a toy group breed and typically weighs between 7 and 10 pounds. This breed has a rough, wiry coat that is black, grey, or silver in color. The Affenpinscher is an intelligent breed known for being playful and energetic. This breed is also known for being loyal and protective of its family.
While the Affenpinscher is not a particularly popular breed, it’s a unique and fun-loving dog that makes a great companion for families or individuals looking for an active and affectionate pet.
23) Lowchen
Lowchen is a small breed of dog that originated in France or Germany. Today, they are one of the most expensive dogs in the world, with puppies selling for upwards of $10,000. Lowchen is known for their long, flowing hair, which is often styled into elaborate clipped designs.
They are also a relatively rare breed, with an estimated global population of less than 3,000. Lowchen makes loyal and affectionate companion animals, but they require a significant amount of grooming and care. As a result, they are not well suited to owners who are not prepared to commit to regular brushing and clipping sessions.
Nevertheless, many people believe that the Lowchen’s unique appearance and personality is well worth the effort required to keep them healthy and happy.
24) Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
The Griffon Fauve de Bretagne is a small, compact hunting dog popular in its native France. The breed is known for its eagerness to please and its hunting ability. Griffon Fauve de Bretagnes are used for hunting various games, including rabbits, hares, and quail.
The breed has a rough, wiry coat that is typically orange or brown in color. Griffon Fauve de Bretagnes are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn and independent.
This breed is not well suited for city living and does best in a rural environment. However, Griffon Fauve de Bretagnes make loyal, affectionate companions and are excellent with children.
25) Porcelaine
The Porcelaine is a breed of dog that hails from France. Originally bred as a hunting dog, the Porcelaine is known for its loyalty and obedience. However, the breed has become increasingly popular as a family pet in recent years. Thanks to their easygoing nature, Porcelaines make excellent companion animals.
They are also relatively easy to train and are content to spend time on their own if necessary. As a result, they are often considered the perfect breed for busy families.
Despite their independent streak, Porcelaines are also gentle and affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time with their loved ones. In short, the Porcelaine is a versatile breed that can make a great addition to any home.
26) Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile hunting dog originally bred in the Netherlands. The breed gets its name from its wiry coat, which helps to protect the dog from harsh weather conditions.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an excellent pointer and retriever and is known for its willingness to please its owner. The breed has a relatively high energy level and needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are intelligent dogs that are easy to train.
They are also good with children and make loyal, affectionate companions. So if you are looking for a versatile hunting dog that will become a part of your family, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon may be your breed.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dog that is sure to stand out from the crowd, you can’t go wrong with a French breed. From the elegant and regal Great Pyrenees to the popular and playful Poodle, there is a French breed to suit every taste.
Whether you’re looking for a guard dog or a family pet, you’re sure to find the perfect companion in one of these unique breeds. So why not add a little je ne sais quoi to your life with a French dog?
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