Braque saint germain

Braques Saint Germain

… chiens de roi, roi des chiens … Groupe 7 Chiens d’arrêt

Nos Reproducteurs		Caractéristiques principales
Femelles : Calypso de l’Etang du Vert Déesse de l’Etang du Vert Elfie de l’Etang du Vert Gemma de l’Etang du Vert Gigotte de l’Etang du Vert Melli et Mello de L’etang du vert	Mâles : Jet-Set de la Diane de Belrem	quête moyenne arrêt ferme docilité remarquable sociabilité rare élégance

Né du croisement d’une lice pointer, offerte au Roi Charles X, et de l’ancien Braque Français, le Braque Saint Germain a hérité des qualités de ces deux races.

Cet authentique demi-sang a tout d’abord été élevé pour les gardes des chenils royaux, en forêt de Compiègne : il a ensuite pris le nom Saint Germain, lorsque les chenils furent transférés dans cette forêt.

D’une rare élégance, c’est un chien de chasse remarquable. Doté d’un nez très fin, il s’adapte à tous les terrains, mais brille particulièrement sur la plume : l’arrêt est ferme et il rapporte souvent naturellement. Doux et souple de caractère, il se dresse facilement : c’est aussi le compagnon des enfants tant il apprécie la vie à la maison.

Ce joli chien n’a qu’un défaut : celui d’être assez rare, car on ne compte guère qu’une cinquantaine de naissances chaque année.

Braque Saint-Germain

Le Braque Saint-Germain et les Enfants :
Il peut convenir à une famille avec enfants car il est très doux et gentil.

Le Braque Saint-Germain et les Personnes âgées :
Son bon caractère lui permet de vivre auprès de personnes âgées sans problème. Il saura s’adapter à leur mode de vie uniquement si ses besoins de dépense sont comblés au quotidien.

Prix

Le prix d’un Braque Saint-Germain varie en fonction de ses origines, son âge et son sexe. La faible diffusion de la race ne permet pas de connaître le prix moyen d’un chiot Braque Saint-Germain inscrit au LOF.

Concernant le budget moyen pour subvenir aux besoins d’un chien de ce gabarit, il faut compter environ 40€/mois.

Toilettage et entretien

Un brossage par mois suffit à maintenir la beauté de la robe de ce chien.

Perte de poils :
Les pertes sont modérées.

Alimentation

Que les repas soient traditionnels ou industriels, le plus important est de respecter l’équilibre de ce chien par le biais de produits de qualité.

Les rations doivent être adaptées à son mode de vie et ses dépenses quotidiennes.

Santé

Résistant / robuste :
C’est un chien robuste qui tombe rarement malade.

Supporte la chaleur :
Il peut sans problème travailler lorsqu’il fait chaud.

Supporte le froid :
ll ne doit pas vivre dehors, il craint énormément le froid et l’humidité.

Tendance à grossir :
Ses repas doivent être équilibrés et ses besoins de dépense respectés pour l’aider à maintenir son poids de forme.

Maladies fréquentes :

• Otites

• Syndrome de Dilatation / Torsion de l’Estomac

• Dysplasie de la hanche

Espérance de vie moyenne : environ 13 ans

Remarques et conseils

Il est peu répandu à l’extérieur des frontières nationales.

Noms pour le Braque Saint-Germain

Pour une femelle, on privilégiera les noms Vanille, Choupette, Louna. Les noms Simba, Marley, Junior vont bien au mâle.

Braque Saint Germain

The Braque Saint Germain (St. Germain Pointing Dog in English) is a medium-sized cross between the Continental and English pointing dogs. Bred for hunting game, the dog is sturdily built and comes with a slightly rounded head, well open eyes, medium-sized ears with rounded extremities, relatively long, well-muscled neck, muscular forequarters and hindquarters, and a low-set tail tapering towards one end.

Braque Saint Germain Pictures

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Saint Germain Pointer Braque Saint Germain Pictures

Quick Information

Also Called	Saint Germain Pointer
Coat	Short, slightly thick
Color	Dull white, orange or fawn markings
Breed Type	Crossbreed
Category	Gun Dog, Pointer, Sporting
Lifespan	12-15 years
Weight	40-57 lb
Size	Medium
Height	Female: 21-23 in Male: 22-24 in
Shedding	Moderate
Size of Litter	4-8 puppies
Temperament	Friendly, sociable, easy to train, lively
Hypoallergenic	No
Good with Children	Yes
Barking	Occasional
Country Originated in	France
Competitive Registration/Qualification Information	UKC, FCI

Braque Saint Germain Hunting Video

History

The Saint Germain Pointers trace their origin back to the 1830s when a group of Continental and English pointers was bred in the royal kennels situated at the French commune of Compiegne. Although it was popular for its role as a hunter, it also participated in dog shows throughout the country. It became the most popular pointing breed in the 1863 French dog show.

Aside from being recognized by some international breed registries and kennel clubs, it is acknowledged as a rare breed by a few minor hunting clubs and dog registries.

Temperament and Behavior

Although an exceptional hunter by nature, it is an incredibly loving and devoted dog that always wants to be close to its people. It is a sensitive breed that does not do well when treated harshly. It can live peacefully with children, making for an excellent playmate.

Since the dog was bred to hunt either alone or in packs, it does not usually show aggression and can get along with other canines when socialized at a young age. However, the St Germain Pointer should not be trusted around smaller pets without proper supervision or training.

Care

• Exercise

• Grooming

• Health Problems

As an energetic working breed, the Saint Germain Pointer requires long hours of regular activity. It loves going for long, brisk walks or jogs and would often crave for running around and playing off-leash in an enclosed yard. You may also play a game of fetch using a ball or a dog toy.

Your Braque Saint Germain requires routine maintenance including regular brushing, occasional nail clipping, and bathing with veterinary recommended shampoo. You also need to clean its ears frequently for the prevention of infections.
As of now, no genetic or unusual health conditions have been predominant in this breed.

Training

The Saint Germain Pointers are willing to learn, always eager to please their owners, thus responding quickly to trainers.

Leash training
Let your Saint German Pointer get used to wearing its leash and collar during its puppyhood. Practice walking it inside a room free from distractions before taking it outside. If it pulls in the opposite direction while walking, stand still and do not move until your pup comes to you. Avoid jerking the leash or dragging your pet along with you.

Prey drive
Since scent drives the chasing instinct in your dog, you need to find activities where this sense can be challenged. So, when your dog sees a cat or a squirrel and starts chasing it, attract its attention by waving a piece of hot dog or chicken near its nose. You may play hide-and-seek with treats, or use a toy or ball filled with tasty snacks. When it comes toward you, put its leash on. Offer the treat only when it calms down completely.

Feeding

Being an active hunting breed, Braque Saint Germain needs a nutritious diet for the fulfillment of its energy requirements. You may give your dog high-quality dry food containing 20-27 percent protein, 14-18 percent fat, and 30 percent carbohydrates.

Braque Saint Germains: What a Unique Breed!

Your dog is special! She’s your best friend, companion, and a source of unconditional love. Chances are that you chose her because you like St. Germain Pointing Dogs and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle:

• Excellent family dog, watchdog, and hunting dog
• Quiet—not much of a barker
• Highly active and eager to have a purpose
• Loyal and Obedient

However, no dog is perfect! You may have also noticed these characteristics:

• Requires vigorous, frequent exercise and space to run
• Prone to boredom and separation anxiety when left alone and will find trouble
• Can seem stubborn
• Standoffish toward strangers

Is it all worth it? Of course! She’s full of personality, and you love her for it! She is a social breed, gentle and playful with children. If given ample exercise and consistent socialization, she is a reliable and loving family companion.

The Braque Saint Germain originated in France in the 1800’s from a cross between native English and French pointing dogs. They were bred to hunt pheasant, partridge, and other small game. Early in their history the Braque St. Germain became a popular show dog in France. While not a popular breed in the United States, she is known in her homeland as a willing and tireless hunter that appreciates living inside with her family.

Your Braque Saint Germain’s Health

We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Braque St. Germain. By knowing about health concerns specific to Braque Saint Germains, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks.

Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pet’s breed. There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions we’ve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Braque Saint Germains to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. Of course, we can’t cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.

This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Braque Saint Germains. This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your St. Germain Pointing Dog looking and feeling her best. You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

Brushing your dog’s teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease.

General Health Information for your Braque Saint Germain

Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. And unfortunately, your Braque Saint Germain is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. If we don’t prevent or treat dental disease, your buddy will lose her teeth and be in danger of damaging her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. In fact, your Braque Saint Germain’s life span may be cut short by one to three years! We’ll clean your dog’s teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean.

Infections

Braque Saint Germains are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Obesity

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Braque Saint Germains. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. She’ll feel better, and so will you!

Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope.

Parasites

All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your St. Germain Pointing Dog’s body, inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so it’s important that we test for them on a regular basis. We’ll also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy.

Spay or Neuter

One of the best things you can do for your Braque St. Germain is to have her spayed (neutered for males). In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Don’t worry; we’ll discuss the specific problems we will be looking for when the time arrives.

Genetic Predispositions for Braque Saint Germains

If you have a common dog breed, there’s probably a lot of genetic research and clinical epidemiological data that have been collected and analyzed over the years, and this large amount of data means that we can confidently predict higher than average risk of certain diseases for these breeds. When the dog breed is more rare, or has not been studied because of geographic or other isolation, we have no stockpile of documented history to draw upon when making preventive healthcare recommendations. We can however, make some educated guesses based on disease risks for dog breeds that share conformational or genetic links with your Braque Saint Germain. Based on these similarities, the following disease risks may carry higher risk, although supportive research has not been identified.

Deafness

Heritable deafness has been noted in some St. Germain Pointing Dog bloodlines, so if his ears are healthy and he’s still ignoring you, a more thorough hearing workup may be needed, including brainwave analysis, if indicated. If you suspect he may not be hearing as well as he should, schedule an appointment with us right away as the problem could also be caused by a severe ear infection.

Epilepsy

There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Reactive seizures are caused by the brain’s reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Braque Saint Germains commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. If your dog has a seizure: Carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don’t try to control his mouth or tongue. It won’t help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital.

Blindness

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease in which the eyes are genetically programmed to go blind. Unfortunately, Braque Saint Germains are a bit more likely than other dogs to have this condition. PRA is not painful, but also not curable. In dogs with the bad gene, early symptoms such as night blindness or dilated pupils generally begin around three to five years of age. A genetic test is available for this condition.

Allergies

In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. We call this skin allergy “atopy”, and Braque St. Germains often have it. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition.

Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, or an accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Braque St. Germains are very often afflicted by allergies, which cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose this disease, the less discomfort and pain he will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause.

A microscopic image of a Demodex mite.

Mange

Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of dogs. All dogs have them. Normally a dog’s immune system keeps the mites in check, but some breeds, like your Braque St. Germain, develop an overabundance of these mites. In mild cases, pet owners may notice a few dry, irritated, hairless lesions. These often occur on the face or feet and may or may not be itchy. Secondary skin infections may occur. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management.

Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your St. Germain Pointing Dog will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! We’ll perform periodic diagnostic tests and look for lumps and bumps when we examine your pet.

Eating Weird Stuff

In addition to the nutritious diet you provide, Braque Saint Germains often eat things they’re not supposed to—rocks, coins, plants, and socks, among others. Your pet carries the item in his mouth to check it out or play with it, or he thinks it’s food. When swallowed, these objects often get stuck and have to be surgically removed. Some of what your dog eats may be toxic and can poison him. If you notice that he is vomiting or not acting right call us immediately.

Heart Disease

Braque Saint Germains are prone to multiple types of heart disease, which can occur both early and later in life. We’ll listen for heart murmurs and abnormal heart rhythms when we examine your pet. When indicated, we’ll perform an annual heart health check, which may include X-rays, an ECG, or an echocardiogram, depending on your dog’s risk factors. Early detection of heart disease often allows us to treat with medication that usually prolongs your pet’s life for many years. Veterinary dental care and weight control go a long way in preventing heart disease.

Some Braque Saint Germains inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction of blood flow as it leaves the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood. If the condition is severe enough, your dog may faint or just seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough, or not grow as much as he should. We’ll test for this disease if he has any symptoms and discuss treatment options with you if he has the condition.

Normal hip x-rays

X-rays taken of a dog with hip dysplasia.

Hip Dysplasia

You’ve probably heard of hip dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the hip joints to form improperly and leads to arthritis: it is common in Braque Saint Germains. You may notice that he has lameness in his hind legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis — the sooner the better — to avoid discomfort and pain. We’ll take X-rays of your dog’s joints to identify the disease as early as possible. Surgery is sometimes considered in severe and life-limiting cases of hip dysplasia. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering.

Cleft Lip or Palate

Your Braque St. Germain is more likely than other breeds to be born with a cleft lip or palate, which is an opening in the lip or the roof of the mouth. Mild cases may not require any treatment, but more serious defects require surgical repair to prevent complications. We’ll check for this abnormality during his first puppy exam.

Taking Care of Your Braque Saint Germain at Home

Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual (see “What to Watch For” below). Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. This is when we’ll give her the necessary “check-ups” and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Braque St. Germains. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs.

Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise

Build her routine care into your schedule to help your St. Germain Pointing Dog live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine.

• Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn’t put in her mouth.
• She has low grooming needs. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly.
• Braque Saint Germains generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!
• Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don’t worry—we’ll show you how!
• She’s a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active, or she’ll get bored. That’s when the naughty stuff starts.
• She can have a high prey drive and should only be off leash in a safely fenced area.
• Keep your dog’s diet consistent and don’t give her people food.
• Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age.
• Exercise your dog regularly, but don’t overdo it at first.

What to Watch For

Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Braque Saint Germain needs help.

Office calls

Give us a call for an appointment if you notice any of these types of signs:

• Change in appetite or water consumption
• Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth
• Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking), hair loss
• Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping
• Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes

Emergencies

Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these types of signs:

• Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge
• Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine
• Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes
• Easily startled, no reaction to unseen sounds
• Any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors
• Vomiting, refusing food, tender abdomen
• Coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest
• Leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, jump, or “bunny hopping”

Partners in Health Care

DNA testing is a rapidly advancing field with new tests constantly emerging to help in the diagnosis of inherited diseases before they can become a problem for your friend. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www.Genesis4Pets.com.

Your Braque St. Germain counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Our goal is to provide the best health care possible: health care that’s based on her breed, lifestyle, and age. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns.