French Spaniel

The French Spaniel descends from the bird dogs described by Gaston Fébus and used in the Middle Ages, and its ancestors are more than likely at the origin of the various sporting spaniel varieties; the first standard was drawn up by James de Connick in 1891. Medium in size, elegant and muscled, of braccoïd type with strong but not coarse bone, it carries long wavy hair on the ears, the backs of the legs and the tail over a flat, silky, well-furnished body coat, white and brown with medium spotting; males stand 56–61 cm and females 55–59 cm. The FCI standard describes it as balanced, frank, gentle, calm and docile — an enthusiastic hunter, sociable with other dogs and an ideal companion in all circumstances.

This page is general information compiled from published sources. It is not veterinary, legal or purchase advice. Dogs vary within a breed — talk to a vet or a reputable breeder about the dog in front of you.

Health notes are not veterinary advice. Conditions listed are those reported for the breed, not a diagnosis of any dog. Always consult a veterinarian.

Summaries of official documents are ours; the source is linked. Breed standards, laws and licensing rules change — check the issuing body for the current version.

1. [1]Épagneul Français (French Spaniel) — FCI standard no. 175 — Fédération Cynologique Internationale (Accessed 2026-09-09)
2. [2]FCI-Standard No. 175 — Épagneul Français (French Spaniel), 23.01.2009 — Fédération Cynologique Internationale (Accessed 2026-09-09)