The Dupuy Setter, also known as the Braque Dupuy, is a breed that is native to the land of France. This is a dog that was bred specifically for hunting and it is only rarely acquired for any other purpose. They are exceptional as gun dogs, being almost fully calm and unaffected by the sight and sound of the gun. They also point accurately and readily, adding to their magnificent ability as hunting companions. These dogs have been used for all sorts of ground hunting, but they are not typically good around water.
Their is some argument regarding the original breeding of the Dupuy Setter. It is thought by some that the breed has its roots Greyhound and the French Setter that was named Dupuy. Others believe that the breed was obtained from mating a white and brown female French Setter with a dog called "My Lord" who was of unknown race, but waas not a Greyhound. Regardless, the Dupuy Setter is appreciated by hunters in France, especially, but also in other areas of the world. They are truly an all-around good hunting companion, being very versatile in the prey, hunt method, and terrain.
This breed is not yet eligible for registry with the American Kennel Club, but they are eligible with the F.C.I. under the native name of Braque Dupuy. They are accepted in the "gun dog" category. While registry may hold little importance to the hunter or average family, it is important for the breeder or those who are interested in competing with the dogs. It will give the dog far greater value in these areas.
According to breed standards, the Dupuy Setter should be between 25.5 and 27 inches tall, when measured from the ground to the withers. Their weight should be in the range of 49 to 62 pounds, with males usually being a bit larger than females. They should be well-proportioned in appearance and not look excessively fatty. The ears are held in the flopped and are relatively long, a trait that most hunting dogs have in common. The eyes are intelligent and sensitive in expression and can look sad when the dog is at rest, lighting up on the hunt. The nose is dark and the muzzle relatively long. The upper lips hang over the lower. The tail is tapered, being thick at the base and getting thinner towards the tip, when left natural.
The coat of the Dupuy Setter is short. They are average shedders and their grooming is fairly easy, only needing a thorough brushing a couple of times per week with a stiff brush to ensure that there is no matting, nothing stuck in the fur, and to remove loose hairs. This will also keep the coat looking shiny and healthy.
The Dupuy Setter is a breed that is suited for hunting work, really not ideal for a pet because they truly love their work. This breed will need a lot of exercise in order to burn off the amazing amount of energy that they have. The high level of intelligence that the breed possesses means that they should have plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom. If they are not kept busy enough, they will be prone to obsessive barking or destructiveness. Training should be consistent, with the human establishing his or her position as "pack leader" from the start. If you are firm, stable, and calm, the dog will respond well to training and learn quickly, especially regarding the natural hunting instincts that they have.
Training should be consistent, with the human establishing his or her position as "pack leader" from the start. If you are firm, stable, and calm, the dog will respond well to training and learn quickly, since the breed is very smart. They should also be well-socialized from an early age. This is really a wonderful all around dog, whether its purpose is to work or to become a family member. The average lifespan of this breed is from twelve to fourteen years and they are typically quite healthy. The loyalty and affections will endear them quickly to you and you will have a friendship that will last a lifetime.