Auvergne Pointer vs French Pointer (Braque Français)

Choosing between Auvergne Pointer and French Pointer (Braque Français)? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Auvergne Pointer is the higher-energy of the two, while French Pointer (Braque Français) is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Auvergne Pointer vs French Pointer (Braque Français): full comparison

TraitAuvergne PointerFrench Pointer (Braque Français)
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelVery HighHigh
TrainabilityHighHigh
FriendlinessMediumMedium
Good with childrenMediumHigh
Grooming needsLowLow
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessMediumMedium
AdaptabilityLowMedium
Typical lifespan12 years12 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Auvergne Pointer is a large and powerful breed that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. By comparison, the French Pointer (Braque Français) is a large and powerful breed that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Auvergne Pointer is a canine athlete needing hard daily work and a purpose, or it turns restless. The French Pointer (Braque Français) demands substantial daily activity, from long walks to hard play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Auvergne Pointer asks for a light brush once or twice a week and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. The French Pointer (Braque Français) asks for a light brush once or twice a week and loses a fair amount of coat, especially seasonally. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Auvergne Pointer takes to training fast and works willingly, is generally quiet, barking only occasionally and gets on with children when raised around them. The French Pointer (Braque Français) takes to training fast and works willingly, is generally quiet, barking only occasionally and suits families with children particularly well. On guarding instinct, Auvergne Pointer announces visitors but stops short of guarding, whereas French Pointer (Braque Français) announces visitors but stops short of guarding.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Auvergne Pointer if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure.

Choose the French Pointer (Braque Français) if you want the more child-friendly companion, you want a more adaptable dog, or you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Auvergne Pointer or the French Pointer (Braque Français) better for families with children?
The French Pointer (Braque Français) tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialisation.
Which sheds more, the Auvergne Pointer or the French Pointer (Braque Français)?
The Auvergne Pointer and French Pointer (Braque Français) shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Auvergne Pointer or the French Pointer (Braque Français)?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Auvergne Pointer or French Pointer (Braque Français) bigger?
Auvergne Pointer and French Pointer (Braque Français) are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Auvergne Pointer or French Pointer (Braque Français)?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Auvergne Pointer or French Pointer (Braque Français)?
For apartment or flat living, French Pointer (Braque Français) has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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