Breed History:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a rare French sporting breed originating in the Normandy region of France, particularly around the marshes and wetlands near the town of Pont-Audemer. Developed during the 19th century, the breed was bred as a versatile hunting dog specializing in waterfowl retrieval and marsh hunting.

Its ancestry likely includes various French spaniels along with water dogs that contributed to its distinctive curly coat and strong swimming abilities. Following the World Wars, the breed's population declined significantly, making it one of France's rarest hunting breeds. Dedicated breeders later helped preserve the breed through careful breeding programs.

Today, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel remains valued for its hunting skills, affectionate temperament, and unique appearance.

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is a sturdy, athletic, and distinctive-looking sporting dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Rounded head with gentle expression

• Long feathered drop ears

• Amber or dark expressive eyes

• Deep chest and balanced body

• Medium-length tail

Its most distinctive feature is its curly, slightly woolly coat, particularly around the head and ears, creating a characteristic "curly wig" appearance.

Common coat colours include:

• Brown

• Brown and grey roan

• Liver shades

The coat is water-resistant and well suited for wet hunting environments.

Breed Type – Sporting/Gundog:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is an intelligent, affectionate, and hardworking hunting breed.

It is known for being:

• Friendly and gentle

• Loyal and devoted

• Energetic and enthusiastic

• Intelligent and cooperative

• Excellent swimmer and retriever

The breed forms strong bonds with family members and generally gets along well with children and other dogs.

Its hunting heritage makes it eager to work and please its handler.

Training:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is intelligent and generally easy to train.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Obedience training

• Retrieving exercises

• Mental stimulation and field activities

The breed excels in:

• Waterfowl hunting

• Retrieving work

• Tracking

• Obedience

• Agility

Consistent and engaging training helps bring out the breed's natural talents.

Health & Care:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is generally healthy but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections

• Eye disorders

• Skin irritations

Routine veterinary care, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy body condition help support long-term health.

Special attention should be given to ear care because of the breed's drop ears and love of water.

Living Conditions:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel is best suited to active homes with access to outdoor activities.

Ideal environments include:

• Rural or suburban homes

• Active families

• Homes with secure yards

• Hunting and sporting households

Apartment living is generally not ideal unless the dog receives sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

The breed enjoys being part of family activities and outdoor adventures.

Exercise:

The Pont-Audemer Spaniel has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Long daily walks

• Swimming sessions

• Retrieving games

• Hunting and field work

• Hiking and outdoor exploration

Regular physical and mental stimulation is essential for maintaining balanced behaviour.

Grooming:

The curly coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Brushing 2–3 times weekly

• Regular inspection for debris after outdoor activities

• Occasional trimming if needed

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Excellent hunting and retrieving abilities

• Friendly and affectionate temperament

• Intelligent and trainable

• Strong swimming skills

• Good family companion

• Rare and distinctive appearance

Disadvantages:

• High exercise and activity requirements

• Requires regular coat and ear maintenance

• Can become restless if under-exercised

• Strong hunting instincts may lead to chasing behaviour

• Rare and difficult to find outside France

• Not ideal for sedentary households