Great Anglo-French Tricolour Hound
Scenthound · FCI Group 6 · Purebred · France's tricolor grande vénerie hound — the most numerous of the Anglo-Français pack breeds
66–77 lbsWeight
24–28 inHeight
10–12 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Scenthound · FCI Group 6 · Purebred · France's tricolor grande vénerie hound — the most numerous of the Anglo-Français pack breeds
The Great Anglo-French Tricolour Hound is the most numerous of the three Grand Anglo-Français varieties, and arguably the most typical expression of the Anglo-Français type. Developed in 19th-century France by blending large tricolor French hounds — chiefly the Tricolore Poitevin — with the English Foxhound, it inherits the French hound's exceptional nose, resonant voice, and endurance, combined with the Foxhound's pace and drive. A dedicated grande vénerie breed, it is used in mounted pack hunts for red deer and wild boar across France. Like its siblings, it is almost never kept as a companion. FCI recognized (Standard No. 324).
Real Great Anglo-French Tricolour Hound photos — showcasing their classic black, white, and tan tricolor markings.
Energetic, sociable, and driven. The Great Anglo-French Tricolour Hound is a passionate, pack-oriented working hound. It is sociable and even-tempered in kennel life, forms working relationships with its handlers, and is friendly in non-hunting settings. Its intense prey drive and hound independence make it entirely unsuitable for urban life or typical pet ownership. In its proper working context — a large French pack hunt — it is tireless, courageous, and highly effective.
Extremely high energy. This is a breed built for sustained galloping over many kilometers. Daily needs far exceed what any typical household can provide. Full-day hunts two or more times per week represent the appropriate exercise level for an actively working individual. Pack management in purpose-built kennel facilities with regular field exercise is the standard approach.
The short, smooth, dense coat is extremely easy to maintain. A weekly wipe-down with a hound glove keeps the tricolor coat clean and shining. The ears — large and pendant — require regular inspection and cleaning to prevent otitis, the most frequent health complaint in this type of hound. Moderate shedder. Bathing is needed only after particularly messy field sessions. Nails require regular trimming.
Bred to function within a pack responding to a huntsman, not as an individually directed companion. The Great Anglo-French Tricolour Hound learns pack hunting sequences and responds to horn and voice signals used in French venery, but individual obedience-style training is largely outside its working purpose. Those experienced in French pack hunting find it a natural and willing hunting partner in its correct context.
A robust working breed with a lifespan of 10–12 years. Ear infections are the primary recurring issue. Hip and elbow dysplasia can occur in large hounds and should be monitored in breeding stock. As an active working breed, it benefits from the physical exercise its hunting lifestyle provides, and obesity is uncommon in working individuals. Regular parasite control and vaccination are standard in pack kennel management.
The Great Anglo-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 Great Anglo-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.