Great Anglo-French White and Black Hound
Scenthound · FCI Group 6 · Purebred · France's great black-and-white pack hunter — power, nose, and endurance for large game
66–77 lbsWeight
24–28 inHeight
10–12 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Scenthound · FCI Group 6 · Purebred · France's great black-and-white pack hunter — power, nose, and endurance for large game
The Great Anglo-French White and Black Hound is one of three Grand Anglo-Français varieties, developed in France during the 19th century by crossing large French hounds (particularly the Saintongeois and Gascon Saintongeois) with English Foxhounds. The "Blanc et Noir" (white and black) variety is the most commonly encountered of the three. Bred exclusively for mounted pack hunting of deer and boar across the French countryside, it combines the endurance and nose of the French scenthound tradition with the speed and drive of the English Foxhound. A purely working breed, it is almost never kept as a pet. FCI recognized (Standard No. 323).
Real Great Anglo-French White and Black Hound photos — showcasing their striking black-and-white coats and powerful build.
Bold, energetic, and pack-oriented. The Great Anglo-French White and Black Hound is a confident, hard-working hound that lives for the hunt. It is sociable and friendly with other dogs — a necessity for a breed that works in packs of 20 or more. With humans it is affectionate and docile when not working. Its strong prey drive and independent hunting instinct make it unsuitable for typical pet homes, but in the right working environment it is a devoted and capable partner.
Extremely high energy. Bred to run for hours covering vast distances in pursuit of deer, this is one of the most athletically demanding hound breeds. Needs multiple hours of vigorous exercise daily in a safe, large outdoor space. It is not suitable for urban or suburban living. Pack kenneling with regular hunting or field exercise is the traditional management approach for this breed.
The short, dense, smooth coat is very easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a hound glove removes loose hair and keeps the coat glossy. Ears must be checked and cleaned regularly — the pendant ears are prone to moisture buildup and infection. The breed sheds moderately. Bathing is rarely needed unless heavily soiled after field work. Nails require regular trimming.
The Great Anglo-French White and Black Hound is bred to work within a pack under a huntsman, not as a individually commanded companion. Basic obedience is achievable but the breed's instincts are strongly oriented toward independent pack hunting. It is not a breed suited to competitive obedience or urban companion roles. Experienced hunters who understand pack hound management will find it highly responsive in its intended context.
Generally a robust working breed with a lifespan of 10–12 years. Hip dysplasia can occur in large hound breeds. Ear infections are the primary recurring issue. As a breed kept predominantly in working pack kennels, veterinary data from individual pet ownership is limited. Responsible pack managers maintain vaccination schedules, parasite control, and regular health monitoring. The breed benefits from the active lifestyle it was bred for.
The Great Anglo-French White and Black 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 Great Anglo-French White and Black 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.