Scenthound / FCI Group 6 · Purebred · The most widespread of France's three grand scenthounds — a bold tricolor hunter bred for large game in the finest French hunting tradition
The French Tricolour Hound is the most numerous of the three Chien Français breeds, developed in 20th-century France by crossing Saintongeois hounds and other traditional French scenthounds with English Foxhound blood. The resulting breed excels at hunting large game — primarily deer and wild boar — in organized pack hunts (venerie), a hallmark of French hunting culture. FCI recognized in 1957, it is an athletic, strong, and melodious-voiced hound of great endurance and drive.
Real French Tricolour Hound photos — showcasing their unique appearance and character.
Hardy, determined, and sociable in the pack. The French Tricolour Hound is bred for cooperative hunting and gets along well with other dogs. With people it is friendly and good-natured, though its working instincts remain dominant. Rarely kept purely as a pet — it thrives when given meaningful work.
Very high stamina: needs 90+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise. This hound is built to run for hours across field and forest. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, it becomes restless and vocal. A large, securely fenced rural property is ideal.
Short, tight coat requiring minimal grooming — a weekly brush keeps it clean and removes dead hair. Floppy ears must be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent infection. Bathe as needed after muddy field work.
Intelligent but independently driven once scenting. Consistent early training and reliable recall training are essential. This breed responds to calm, positive guidance. Experience with hound breeds is strongly recommended, as it can be selectively deaf when on a scent.
Generally a robust and healthy breed. Common concerns include ear infections (from pendulous ears), hip dysplasia in larger dogs, and bloat in deep-chested individuals. Regular ear hygiene, appropriate exercise, and weight management are the primary preventive measures.
The French Tricolour Hound does best on a good-quality complete dog food matched to its age, size, and activity level. As a rough guide, a typical adult eats about 2½–3¾ cups of dry food per day, split into two meals — but a hard-working or very active dog needs more, while a couch companion needs less. Use a large-breed formula and avoid heavy exercise right after meals to reduce the risk of bloat.
Puppies: 3 meals a day of a puppy formula to fuel growth.
Active adults: around 2½–3¾ cups daily, in two meals, adjusted to keep a trim waistline.
Seniors (7+ yrs): slightly fewer calories and, if needed, a joint-supporting formula as they slow down.
Never feed chocolate, grapes or raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, or cooked bones. Keep treats to no more than about 10% of daily calories so they don't crowd out balanced nutrition or lead to weight gain.
Where puppies are available, a French Tricolour Hound from a responsible breeder typically costs around $1,000–$2,500, with rarer bloodlines and imported dogs sitting at the higher end. Rescue or adoption, where possible, is far less — usually a few hundred dollars in fees.
Food, treats & preventatives, routine care and supplies together usually run about $110–$200 per month for a healthy adult, not counting emergencies or boarding.
Over a full lifetime the total cost of ownership generally lands around $18,000–$28,000, including the purchase price. Pet insurance ($15–$45/month) and a small emergency fund are smart ways to cushion against unexpected veterinary bills.