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French Spaniel
French Spaniel
Origin
France
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
10º-24ºC
Life Expectancy
10-12Â years
Cost of buying
₹ 30,000 - ₹ 60,000
Top 5 Traits
Athletic
Energetic
Playful
Loyal
Intelligent
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 4,650 - ₹ 6,600
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 22 Jul 2025
Introduction to the French Spaniel
The French spaniel (Epagneul Français) is one of the oldest pointing dog breeds of Europe. The breed was developed in France as early as the 14th century. This beautiful hunting breed was most loved by royals and was especially famous for its keen nose, calm demeanour, and refined looks.
One of them was also said to be owned by Catherine I of Russia. The breed nearly touched its extinction in the early 1900s, but Father Fournier helped revive it by establishing strict breeding standards.
Today, the breed is recognised by the FCI and UKC, and included in the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service.
How Long Do French Spaniels Live?
The French Spaniels can have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
French Spaniel Temperament and Personality
French Spaniels are famous for being:
- Calm and even-tempered
- Affectionate with family
- Enthusiastic hunters
- Friendly with other dogs
- Intelligent and trainable
They have strong bonds with their loved ones and are good for families. Owners who can offer them daily physical and mental stimulation are best for them.
French Spaniel Exercise Needs
- Minimum: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Activities: Walks, swims, fetch, agility, tracking games
- Tip: Not suitable for sedentary families or small apartments
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
French Spaniel Price Guide
Cost of buying
₹ 30,000 - ₹ 60,000
The price of a French Spaniel in India can be somewhere from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 60,000.
Similar Breeds to the French Spaniel
Prerequisites to pet a French Spaniel
Access to Groomer
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Lifestyle Compatibility
Financial Capability
Space and Environment
Shop or Adopt a French Spaniel: Make the Right Choice!
French Spaniels are charming, affectionate and devoted companions, distinguished by their unique appearance. When you adopt a French Spaniel, you provide a loving home to a dog in need and bring a devoted friend into your life. Adoption helps support animal welfare and deters unethical breeding practices.
Best Practices to Follow While Shopping or Adopting a French Spaniel
- Try shelters or breed-specific rescues like the French Spaniel Rescue Network.
- Select breeders that provide health clearances and proper care.
- Their breathing issues make regular vet visits important.
- Their thick coat requires constant brushing and care.
- Moderate activity helps prevent obesity.
- Stubbornness is curbed by early training and builds confidence.
- Ideal for apartments but sensitive to extreme temperatures.
- Handle with care, best for families with older children.
Nutrition Care for the French Spaniel
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 2,250 - ₹ 3,000
Calories per day
Puppies:Â 1500 kcal
Adults:Â 1200 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Minerals
Vitamins
Fibre
List of foods
Chicken
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Vegetables
- French Spaniel need a balanced diet to support their size and coat.
- Include protein, healthy fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals for strength and coat health.
- Avoid low-quality food to prevent deficiencies and weight gain.
- Adjust feeding based on age and activity level.
- Mix dry food with lean meats and vegetables for balanced nutrition.
Feeding Guidelines for French Spaniels
Puppies (6–12 Months): Offer them 3–4 small meals per day. Pick puppy puppy-specific formula that is high in protein and calcium. Their food portions must be 5–6% of the expected adult weight.
Adults (1–7 Years): Feed them 2 meals a day. The servings should be 2–3% of body weight. Adjust the portions as per their energy levels.
Seniors (7+ Years): Provide smaller and more frequent meals. Senior-specific diets with joint support and lower fat will be great for them. Include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.
Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for French Spaniels
- Dry Kibble: Pick diets for medium active breeds that are AAFCO approved. This will assure complete and balanced nutrition for their daily needs.
- Wet Food Mixes: This provides moisture and variety to your dog. It helps give hydration and improves mealtime appeal.
- Recommended Proteins: Chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. These meats are lean, easily digestible and rich in amino acids.
- Add-ons: Sweet potato, brown rice, green vegetables, berries. All these boost fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants in their meals.
Foods to Avoid for French Spaniels
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Almonds
Avocados
Cherries
Cinnamon
Dairy
Fruit seeds
Garlic
Grapes
Milk Products
Lemon
Mushrooms
Onions
Salt
Sugar
- Toxic: Chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, macadamia nuts. Even minute amounts can cause serious illness and even death.
- Unsafe: Raw bread dough, cooked bones. The dough can expand in the stomach; cooked bones may splinter and cause injury.
- Risky for Pancreas: High-fat leftovers, fried foods. These can trigger conditions that lead to severe abdominal pain and vomiting.
Healthcare for French Spaniels
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Canine distemper
Heartworm
Hip Dysplasia
Kennel Cough
Leptospirosis
Lyme disease
Parasites
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
60 - 90 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Common Health Problems in French Spaniels
- Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS): This is a genetic disorder that causes loss of pain sensation in limbs and leads to self-mutilation.
- Hip Dysplasia: This leads to malformed hip joints, which leads to lameness or arthritis. Joint supplements and weight control are ways to help manage symptoms.
- Eye Problems: Entropion, ectropion, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye checkups are important for early treatment.
- Epilepsy: It can be managed with medication. Proper vet care can help control seizures.
- Ear Infections: It happens because of their long, floppy ears that trap moisture. Clean ears weekly to fight the risk of infection.
General Healthcare Tips for French Spaniels
- Visit the vet twice every year after your dog turns 7. This helps catch age related conditions early and helps you manage symptoms better.
- Always stay up to date with vaccinations and deworming. It helps protect against common infections and parasites.
- Clean their ears to prevent infection buildup. It is really important for breeds with floppy or hairy ears.
- Regular dental care with brushing or dental chews. This keeps their teeth clean and prevents gum problems.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
10-12 Weeks
DHPP, Leptospirosis
14-16 Weeks
DHPP, Rabies
12-16 Weeks
DHPP, Rabies (booster)
Annually
DHPP, Rabies
Senior French Spaniel Care
- Provide them with orthopaedic bedding. It helps cushion pressure points and also supports ageing joints.
- Feed them smaller, more frequent meals with added joint supplements. This helps digestion and also supplies nutrients like glucosamine.
- Give them a regular, gentle exercise routine. This keeps them active without overstraining their joints.
- Visit the vet twice every year. This helps with early detection of many age related health issues.
Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.
French Spaniel Grooming Routine
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Low Shedding
Prevents Bad Breath
Odourless
- Brushing: Brush weekly using a pin brush, but in shedding seasons brush daily.
- Bathing: Bathe them monthly using a mild shampoo
- Nail Trimming: Trim their nails every 2–3 weeks
- Ear Cleaning: Weekly with vet-approved solution
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are French Spaniels good family pets?
Yes! They are loving, docile, and friendly towards children when well-trained and exercised.
How much do they shed?
Moderate shedding throughout the year, with greater shedding in the fall and spring seasons.
Do they get along with other pets?
Yes, they are outgoing and affectionate to other dogs. Early introduction assists with cats or small animals.
Are they good for first-time dog owners?
Probably, yes- as long as you can stick to their exercise requirements and train with gentle consistency.
