Breed Standard
Head: Slender. Round skull with a very curly topknot. Prominent occipital peak. Pronounced stop. Long nosebridge with a bump in the middle. Lips thin, not very pendulous. Pointed, brown nose.
Ears: Set on fairly low, flat, moderately thick, long, and covered with long, silky, very curly hair that blends with the topknot, framing the head.
Eyes: Fairly small, dark amber or hazel.
Body: Straight or slightly domed back. Very slightly sloping croup
Tail: Carried fairly straight. Usually docked to one-third its length, thickly covered with curly hair. If not docked, it should be medium in length and slightly curved.
Hair: Curly and slightly rough. Very dense.
Coat: Brown, preferably mottled brown and grey, with dead foliage highlights.
Size: 52 to 58 cm (20.5-23 in).
Weight: Approx. 20 kg (44 lb).
History
Developed in the nineteenth century, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is believed to be descended from an old spaniel breed native to Pont Audemer, in the Eure region of France, crossed with the Irish Water Spaniel. The Picardy Spaniel and the Barbet may also have contributed to the breed. The Pont-Audemer Spaniel has been represented by the Picardy Spaniel Club since 1980. Already fairly rare by the early twentieth century, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is still quite limited in number.
Behavior
Tough, hardy, and vigorous, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is remarkably resistant to cold and bad weather. A flusher, he plows through thickets, but water is his element. He was bred to hunt waterfowl, including duck. Skilled at tracking a wide variety of game, he is a firm pointer and a perfect retriever. Affectionate, gentle with children, and very attached to his owner, he makes a good pet. His training need not be too rigorous.
He can adapt to city life but needs lots of exercise. He also requires weekly brushing.
Function
Hunting Dog, Companion Dog.
Health
Alopecia has been reported in the Pont-Audemer Spaniel, appearing first between the ages of seven and eighteen months. The ears and nose areas are primarily affected.
