East European Shepherd vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison

East European Shepherd vs Braque Francais - Breed ComparisonEast European Shepherd is originated from Russia but Braque Francais is originated from France. East European Shepherd may grow 7 cm / 3 inches higher than Braque Francais. Both East European Shepherd and Braque Francais are having almost same weight. East European Shepherd may live 3 years less than Braque Francais. Both East European Shepherd and Braque Francais has same litter size. East European Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Braque Francais requires Low maintenance

History

east european shepherd - historyThe East European Shepherd is a dog which hails from Russia. The dog was developed in the 1930-1950s as there was a need for a bigger, more robust, weather-resistant type of dog who would perform all kinds of guard duties in the Soviet Union.

This is a rare dog breed, created by mixing Russian breeds such as the Laika, Central Asian Shepherd and Caucasian Shepherd to create a strong working dog that could cope well with the sub-freezing conditions.

The standard breed type was established in 1964. The only major kennel club to grant full recognition to the East-European Shepherd is the Russian Kennel Club. In the United States, the dog is recognized by a number of rare breed registries.

braque francais - historyBraque Francais was at first one general breed of hounds in the Gascognes and Pyrenees Mountains areas of France. The one breed became two. Known as the Braque Francais Gascognes and the Braque Francais Pyrenees - two separate breeds of very alike dogs. The Gascognes is a lot less common than his smaller brother. Not very much is known about the beginnings of these two strains of Braque Francais as the breed has been around since at least the 15th century. Because the Braque Francais was exported or taken to so many different countries in the 15th-18th centuries, a lot of the origins of the breeds were lost. A major bloodline search was The conducted in the 19th century and found that these were two very distinct breeds of dog.

It is known that France was the birthplace of this breed and it was developed because of a need for a tracker that could point, flush and retrieve. The Braque Francais Gascogne probably came from the south of France. It is related to the German Shorthair Pointer and the English Pointer as well. Having existed since the 15th century, he was the father of all pointing dogs in France. By the 17th century the breed had grown enough to be called the “old style Braque Francais”,

Though the origin of the breed is not known there are of course several theories about it. The most prevalent belief is that the Braque Francais Gascogne is a descendent of the Chien d’Oysel, a spaniel breed of medium size and white or brown with brown markings. The Chien d’Oysel is an ancient breed used for hunting prior to the 13th century. Hunters crossed the Chien with local dogs on a routine basis.

Braque Francais came out of these breedings. It was probably French Scent hounds that created the larger size of the Gascogne. This also increased the stamina and strength of the Gascogne as opposed to the Pyrenees. There was also a mixing in of the Grand Bleu De Gasgogne and the Petit Bleu De Gasgogne.

The other prominent theory is that this breed the Gasgogne was actually developed from the Portugese, Spanish and Italian pointers rather than the French dogs. These dogs originated not with the Chien d’Oysel but with the scent hounds. From these dogs came the Spanish and English Pointers. All that is truly known is that all of these types of dogs were present in Europe by the fifteenth century and were moved among countries and cross bred regularly. However in the part of France called the Central Pyrenees region and in a small southern part of France the original, old style Braque Francais was pure bred. This aspect of the breed contributed to the development of all of the French pointers and European shorthaired dogs. By the end of the 1800’s today’s breed was developed.

In 1850 the first Braque Francais breed club was established and in the breed standards for both dogs followed in 1880. They were then registered in the French Kennel Club and the International Kennel Club (FCI). The French Kennel Club does not allow dogs with any common ancestors in Generations 1-3 into the Club in order to keep out the practice of inbreeding. In Canada only the Gascogne is recognized and the United States’ United Kennel Club (UKC) recognizes both. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize either.

With most local regions and countries choosing their local dogs over other breeds, the Braque Francais Gascogne has become fairly rare outside of France where the breed was the most popular gun dog throughout the 1700’s. The Gascogne was mostly a dog of the hunting nobility because of its size and food needs. Following the French Revolution, the breed fell off dramatically, while the smaller Pyrenees continued to thrive. This was because in the Pyrenees Mountains and the Southwestern region of Gascony, the English Pointer never supplanted the Braque Francais.

The Second World War was brutal to the Braque Francais Gascognes and as it recovered it became much less common than its sister breed. Today it is found almost exclusively in France.

Description

east european shepherd puppy - descriptionThe East European Shepherd is larger than a German Shepherd. He is described as a large dog with males and females standing roughly at 66-76 centimeters at the withers and weighing anything between 30–50kg.

The coat with undercoat is medium in length with the standard color being black-and-tan or black-and-red. The dog is solid colored or is light fawn or tan in color with black saddle.

The face of the dog is black and he looks a lot like a wolf in appearance. The ears of the East European Shepherd are medium sized and always erect.The tail is long and hangs low.

Temperament:

The East European Shepherd is an intelligent and confident dog and can be aggressive when aggravated. He is a working dog and to get along with other pets in the home as well as children, the East European Shepherd will need to be trained and socialized, becoming obedient and loyal with his owner.

He is an intelligent dog and training him poses no problem. Loyal and devoted, this dog mostly becomes particularly attached to one member of the family.

There are a number of dog experts who don’t recommend the dog as a family pet as it is a dog reluctant to form a close bond with a child, being irritated by them, especially ill disciplined children.

It is a strong-willed dog too and shouldn’t be the first dog choice for a novice dog owner. They make excellent guard dogs and take their role as protector of the family seriously.

braque francais puppy - descriptionThe Braque Francais Gascogne is a larger dog than the Pyrenees breed and is a very handsome dog. Both have a deep chest, a solid bodies, strong and slender legs and are well-proportioned. They have padded, round paws and a large brown head with floppy ears. The muzzle is a pointed block and he has a scissors bite, with a black nose and dark or amber eyes. The eyes are very expressive and round. The tail can be straight and long, or it can be docked. They are tall and athletic.

Characteristics

east european shepherd dog - characteristicsThe East-European Shepherd dogs are balanced, confident, intelligent, loving and playful while also being tough and protective of their owners.

They make fantastic guard dogs, becoming aggressive around strangers whom they don’t trust. When you bring a dog like this into the home, it is essential to have him trained and socialized and to also have a firm owner who can deal with such a strong-willed animal.

He is an active, alert dog who will require regular exercise and will slot into life in the city or in the country so long as his exercise needs are met.

When you look after your East European Shepherd you’ll find in him a devoted, loyal friend who will protect you with his life.

braque francais dog - characteristicsThis is a working breed, but they are nevertheless friendly and loyal to their families. They want to please their people and are usually docile. They love kids and are good as a first ever dog. They are friendly and even-tempered. They tolerate people they do not know but can be shy and are not guard dogs. instead they are loving, affectionate and people oriented. They need to be with their families and never left outside alone. They can develop separation anxiety.

Health Problems

east european shepherd puppies - health problemsRegarded as a tough dog who can reach 10 – 12 years of age, the East European Shepherd is prone to hip or elbow dysplasia. This is a a disease that is more prevalent with German Shepherd type dogs.

Dysplasia is a genetic condition which can lead to inflammation and arthritis and even lameness. Unfortunately it can happen with young dogs too, and the vet will suggest different types of treatment which can include surgery.

Degenerative myelopathy is another degenerative disease which can be found with the East European Shepherd. It is a fatal, progressive degenerative disease of the spinal cord. Unfortunately there isn’t treatment for the disease, leading to paralysis of the limbs.

braque francais puppies - health problemsThe Braque Francais is a fairly healthy breed. They are susceptible to certain health conditions that most dogs of their size and working history are susceptible to. These include Patellar luxation which seems to be one of the most common problems for them. They also can have hip and/or elbow dysplasia, aortic stenosis which is a narrowing of the aorta, and some eye issues such as ectropion, entropion, and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as cataracts.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

east european shepherd dogs - caringThe coat of the East European Shepherd is thick, and while he won’t require any professional grooming, he will require being brushed at least twice a week. This is because he sheds heavily at certain times.

His nails will need to be clipped if they don’t wear down naturally, and his teeth will require regular brushing at least 2 or 3 times a week. Fortunately, because his ears are large and open, he doesn’t easily get an ear infection.

Exercise:

The East European Shepherd is a dog which has always been worked. It is a highly energetic dog and its role as a guard- and herding dog has made it that the dog will require a good dose of exercise.

A long walk may not be enough for this active dog, and he will require intense ball throwing with a tennis racquet to get the ball far away so that he can run far to fetch the ball. Without enough exercise, the East-European Shepherd will develop behavioral problems which will include aggression.

Feeding

braque francais dogs - caringThis is a high energy, working dog with a need for a high-quality energy food or raw food that you make up yourself. Be sure to include chicken, beef and fish. Feed him about 3 cups once a day or 1.5 cups twice a day.

Health issues

In addition to the conditions listed above, his long floppy ears can lead to ear infections if not cared for. Wash them out daily. He is also susceptible to bloat so don’t feed him large meals and don’t let him exercise or work right before or right after exercise.

Exercise and games

These dogs have a variety of hunting skills. They are not only pointers but can flush, trail and retrieve. The Gascogne is not as quick as the Pyrenees. They need a lot of exercise daily or they need a hunting job. They would do well with barn hunt, lure coursing and free play in an off leash fenced in area. If they don’t get rid of their energy, they can be destructive. They were bred to hunt and cannot resist the chase,

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
Origin:
Russia
France
Height Male:
66 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
47 - 69 cm
18 - 28 inches
Height Female:
66 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
45 - 65 cm
17 - 26 inches
Weight Male:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
20 - 55 kg
44 - 122 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
19 - 52 kg
41 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 10
3 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Belarusian Shepherd, Eastern European Shepherd, Byelorussian Shepherd
French Pointing Dog -; Braque Francais, de Grande Taille
Colors Available:
Solid colored or fawn or tan with black saddle
brown, Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white. With or without ticking or roaning or tan marking
Coat:
Medium length and dense
thick
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Great Pyrenees vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Presa Canario vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Labrador Husky vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Giant Schnauzer vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Goldador vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Mackenzie River Husky vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. German Longhaired Pointer vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyredoodle vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Entlebucher Mountain Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Lurcher vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Maremma Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Sarplaninac vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Himalayan Mastiff vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Mountain View Cur vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Native American Indian Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Greenland Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Komondor vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Rafeiro do Alentejo vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Fila Brasileiro vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Greek Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Kangal Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Himalayan Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. East Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  27. French Spaniel vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  28. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  29. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  30. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  31. English Water Spaniel vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  32. Field Spaniel vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  33. Curly Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  34. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  35. Braque Francais vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  36. Braque Francais vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  37. Braque Francais vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  38. Braque Francais vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  39. Braque Francais vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  40. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  41. Shikoku vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  42. Slovakian Hound vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  43. Small Munsterlander vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  44. Sussex Spaniel vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  45. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  46. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  47. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  48. Wetterhoun vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  49. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  50. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds