Breed Standard
Head: Heavy, broad, fairly short. Slightly domed skull. Stop not pronounced. Bridge of nose broad and straight, not very long. Well-developed nose. Lips somewhat thick.
Ears: Set on at eye level, large, thick, nearly flat, and fairly long.
Eyes: Large, prominent, very wide
Body: Massive. Neck fairly long, powerful. Very slight dewlap. Wide brisket. Fairly broad, well let-down chest. Ribs fairly rounded. Loin broad and muscular. Flank let-down and very full. Broad, slightly sloping croup. Well-muscled, moderately long back.
Tail: Fairly long, tufted, and carried in sickle fashion.
Hair: Lying close to the body, thick.
Coat: Tricolor: white, dark fawn to hare or even badger grey, with mantle or large black spots. Head usually fawn, sometimes smoky.
Size: 52 to 58 cm (20.5-22.8 in).
Weight: 25 to 30 kg (55-66 lb).
History
This very old, medium-sized pack hound was nearly extinct by the early twentieth century. It has made a comeback, but is still rare. It was first mentioned in the fifteenth century and is believed to have been used by royalty for deer hunting. The result of crosses between scenthounds and pointers, the Artois Hound was also popular throughout the centuries as a hare-hunting dog. His ancestor is the Great Artois Hound, himself descended from the Saint Hubert. A splash of English blood modified the breed.
Behavior
Hardy, robust, and courageous, the Artois Hound has great stamina and is even-tempered and calm. This medium-sized hound combines the qualities of pointers and scenthounds: a strong sense of direction, a very keen nose, precise pointing, speed, and drive. A hare hunter, he is also used on deer, wild boar, and fox. He needs a firm owner.
He needs space and exercise and requires regular brushing.
Function
Hunting Dog.
Health
There are no known health problems that are specific to the Artois Hound. Any health problems it may develop can be found in most other dog breeds.
