Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed ComparisonBraque Francais (Pyrenean Type) is originated from France but American Pit Bull Terrier is originated from United States. Both Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) and American Pit Bull Terrier are having almost same height. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) may weigh 25 kg / 56 pounds more than American Pit Bull Terrier. Both Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) and American Pit Bull Terrier has same life span. Both Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) and American Pit Bull Terrier has same litter size. Both Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) and American Pit Bull Terrier requires Low maintenance.

History

braque francais pyrenean type - historyThe Braque Francais Gascognes and the Braque Francais Pyrenees are two alike dogs that are in reality separate breeds. The Pyrenees is not as rare as his larger brother, Gascognes. Around since the 15th century at least, not mush is really known about their origins. Because the Braque Francais was exported or taken to so many different countries in the 15th-18th centuries, a lot of information regarding the origins of the breeds were lost. There was a major study done in the 19th century that showed the two dogs came from very different blood lines. It is known that in this timeframe there was an acute need for a dog that was better than the current hunting breeds. This dog needed to be able to point, track, retrieve and flush.

With no authenticated story of origin, many myths have grown up in the vacuum. The most common belief is that the Chien d’Oysel, an ancient spaniel breed that was medium sized with brown or white fur and brown markings, is an ancestor of the Braque Francais and local hunting dogs. To make the Gascognes larger and stronger than the Pyrenees, local scent hounds were also crossed with these dogs. The Pyrenees does not have these scent hounds in their background.

Until the late 1800’s, there was only one type and one breed of Braque Francais. But when the breed was no longer the dogs of a nobility, the average hunter needed a smaller dog. Urbanization following the French Revolution added to this trend and the Pyrenees Mountain hunters crossed the Gascognes with smaller scent hounds and pointers. Thus, they created the Braque Francais Pyrenees and each dog became its own breed in 1920.

The Braque Francais breed club, including standards for both breeds was established in 1850 with the standards established in 1880. This acceptance was then followed by registration of both breeds in the International Kennel Club (FCI) and the French Kennel Club. Canada recognizes only the Gascoigne and the United Kennel Club (UKC) of the United States, recognized both. Neither breed has been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The Second World War was brutal to both types of the Braque Francais, but the Pyrenees have surpassed their sister breed and are the only one that has found its way to North America. The importers have started a breeding program in Canada. Later a few were imported to the States. There are currently at least four breeders in North America – 2 in the U.S. and 2 in Canada. It is thought that there are less than 200 Braque Francais Pyrenees living in North America.

american pit bull terrier - historyThe history of the American Pit Bull Terrier might be a confusing one to some dog lovers and certainly to the general public that tends to lump all the “bully” breeds into a category called “pit bull”. This is because of the negative reputation this group of breeds has acquired over the past 30-50 years due to misuse and mis-breeding by the dog fighting industry. This categorization includes the American Pit Bull Terrier, The American Staffordshire Terrier, the Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

There is major confusion and disagreement on the difference between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. The AKC does not recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier as a separate breed, but its founder and the UKC, ADBA do so. In the 1930’s the American Pit Bull Terrier was a recognized breed and in response to the negativity of pit-fighting, they renamed it as the American Staffordshire Terrier.

The American Pit Bull Terrier was developed to be a little larger in size than the Staffordshire in both height and weight. This breed comes from crossing various Bull and Terrier breed to get a working dog. The Amstaff for the most part is bred to be a show dog and is not usually a “street dog” used in dog fighting rings. The direct ancestors of the APBT are the Old English Bulldogs and the Old English Terriers. These dogs are great family dogs, gentle beyond comparison unless raised to fight. They make great therapy dogs as well as police dogs. They are not by nature cruel, aggressive or attack dogs.

Both professional confirmation breeders and street fight breeds have developed new strains of the American Pit Bull Terrier. A few are worth mentioning here.

Old Family Red Nose

One of the oldest strains of the American Pit Bull Terrier they are red in color and that red is a very unique tone. They have a copper colored coat and nose with red nails, red lips and amber or red eyes. These dogs were originally from Ireland and when they came to America they had the red nose. Originally bred for gameness, it is the red color that is sought after now.

Colby Pit Bulls

These are another old breed, but they have black noses and were initially bred by John P. Colby in the late 1800s. These dogs were known to be indominable fighting dogs and were bred into almost every line of American Pit Bull Terriers that exist today. The line is still maintained by the Colby family.

Description

braque francais pyrenean type puppy - descriptionThe Braque Francais breeds are medium sized dogs with the Pyrenean standing 10 centimeters shorter than the Gascogne. They have a, white or chestnut brown coat with brown spots and a brown head. The Pyrenees has a head that is broader and ears that are not as long as the Gascogne. Their muzzle is narrower. He is strong, tall with hanging lips and square muzzles.

american pit bull terrier puppy - descriptionTrue to their reputation as fighters, the American Pit Bull Terrier looks like one – powerful, strong and well built. This belies their gentle disposition but too often they are judged by their looks. With a broad, brick shaped head, thick neck and deep chest, they are stocky, muscular and agile. They usually have cropped ears, but the tails are not docked. Their legs are strong and hindquarters especially muscular. These dogs are much stronger than they look. Round soulful eyes are one of the traits that people who keep these dogs as companion animals love about them. They have a scissor bite and one of the strongest jaws of all domesticated canines.

Characteristics

braque francais pyrenean type dog - characteristicsThis is a sociable, lovable, friendly breed. They are gentle and docile dogs that want only to please you. They like children as well as adults and will never be a guard dog as they are friendly to strangers as well. The Braque Francais Pyrenees is affectionate while being highly skilled hunters. They are prone to severe separation anxiety if left alone for long. They might even have a tendency toward shyness.

american pit bull terrier dog - characteristicsFor those who live with the American Pit Bull Terrier there is no better dog. The APBT loves people and loves children. They think they are lap dogs, and they certainly are watch dogs. They love their people but their barks at strangers at home are not because they are protecting their people but rather they are greeting the strangers into their home. Unfortunately, they will not greet another dog in the same way. However, when their people are seriously threatened they will give their lives to defend them.

These are strong, confident dogs who want to please their people. They love children and make great family dogs but require a strong owner and a strong pack leader. The need to be under control around other dogs and because of their strength, need a strong owner. It is their aggression towards other animals that must be controlled.

Health Problems

braque francais pyrenean type puppies - health problemsThe breed of Braque Francais in both its incarnations is generally a pretty healthy dog. They are prone to several issues including dysplasia of the elbow and hip, aortic stenosis, some eye issues and patellar luxation. The eye issues are around the lids and include ectropion and entropion along with cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). These issues are not avoidable, but the risk can be reduced even more by breeder testing of parents of any litter and then test the litter. Both the OFA and CERF should conduct tests for the dysplasia (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and eyes (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).

american pit bull terrier puppies - health problemsThough the American Pit Bull Terrier is healthier than most large dogs, they do have an issue with hip dysplasia. Breeders have been working to breed this out of the APBT and their work in this area has helped with the other issues with the patella, heart and thyroid. The APBT can have skin allergies and Demodex Mange. This condition can be either deadly or just a localized skin issue. Immunizations and testing is essential for this breed. When not immunized, American Pit Bull Terrier puppies have a greater incidence of parvovirus than other breeds. They also might have cataracts and congenital heart disease.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

braque francais pyrenean type dogs - caringThis breed need a high energy food including raw meat such as chicken, fish, and beef. If feeding kibble, they need about 2.5 cups per day.

Health issues

Prone to inflammation and infections of the ears as they are long and floppy. Clean them regularly. As previously mention eye disorders, joint dysplasia and bloat.

Exercise and games

The Braque Francais Pyrenees is a fairly versatile hunting dog. They can hunt on all types of terrain by trailing, flushing and retrieving. They are quick and move quickly without actually sprinting. This dog needs serious exercise every day. They will walk or jog with you. They will run along side your bike. Whatever you choose to do, do it for an hour a day. Don’t make couch potatoes out of this breed. It will not turn out well if you do. They need a place where they can play off leash as well, such as a large yard or a dog park.

Feeding

american pit bull terrier dogs - caringHow you feed your American Pit Bull Terrier puppy is important to her health as an adult and long life. The adult dog should be fed one and a half to two and a half cups of high quality food twice a day. Puppies should be fed more often as they grow. DO not feed your APBT soft or canned dog food. Their food should be dry. Be careful not to feed too much as you do not want an obese American Pit Bull Terrier.

Health issues

As previously mentioned this is a healthy breed with problems with:

Cataracts

These are usually inherited, and the pup may show signs early, or they could be developed later in life. They can be removed.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia as in many larger, stronger breeds this can be a major problem. Breeds should test for it and APBT breeders are attempting to breed it out of the APBT.

Congenital Heart Failure

This is a congenital issue that breeders are also breeding against and if they have it your American Bit Bull Terrier was likely born with it.

Allergies

Many APBT are allergic to grasses or out outside allergens. Shots or medication can deal with these.

Exercise and games

This is an athletic, joyful breed that loves to play, love sports and loves any activity that bonds it with its family. Some of the many sports the American Pit Bull Terrier likes to participate in include: agility, obedience competition, weight pulling, lure coursing and fly ball. He also needs backyard exercise and daily walks.

When walking your American Pit Bull Terrier, make sure she is on a leash as the breed has a tendency to be aggressive with other dogs coming into their space. The APBT loves to work. They are good therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, even service dogs.

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
France
United States
Height Male:
47 - 58 cm
18 - 23 inches
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
Height Female:
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
40 - 53 cm
15 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Weight Female:
32 - 52 kg
70 - 115 pounds
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
8 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 10
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
French Pointing Dog - Pyrenean Type; Braque Francais, de Petite Taille
Staffordshire Fighting Dog, Pit Terrier, Pitbull, Pit, Half and Half, Bull Baiter Dogs, Old Family Dog - the Irish name, Yankee Terrier - the Northern name, Rebel Terrier - the Southern name
Colors Available:
mottled brown Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white. With or without ticking or roaning or tan markings
Red, Black, Fawn or Bucksjin
Coat:
fine and short
Smooth, Shiny, Short, Single layer
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Territorial
Affectionate, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. East Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  2. French Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  3. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  4. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  5. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  6. English Water Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  7. Field Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  8. Curly Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  9. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  10. Braque Francais vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  11. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  12. Shikoku vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  13. Slovakian Hound vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  14. Small Munsterlander vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  15. Sussex Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  16. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  17. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  18. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  19. Wetterhoun vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  20. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  21. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  22. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  23. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  24. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  25. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  26. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  28. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Schnauzer vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Fox Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Bull and Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Bedlington Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Irish Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Kerry Blue Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Lakeland Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Jagdterrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  39. Blue Paul Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Indian Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Irish Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Japanese Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Brazilian Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Old English Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  45. Scoland Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Skye Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  47. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  48. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  49. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  50. Welsh Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds