Ariegeois

Originally considered to be a colour variation of the Gascony hounds, this breed was developed in Ariege in south-western France using a number of established working dogs, namely the Grand Gascon Saintongeois and Grand Bleu de Gascogne, as well as a variety of local Briquets. Even though some sources suggest that the Chien d'Artois and the Ariege Pointer were also used in its creation, most fanciers and historians of this breed would disagree. The Ariegeois almost became extinct at the beginning of the 20th century, but dedicated fanciers formed the breed club in 1908 and managed to save this French scenthound. The breed was recognized in 1912, but the Ariegeois remains rare and unknown outside its homeland, where it's still used to hunt small game.

A resilient pack hunter, this is primarily a working dog, but its even temperament and trainability also make it a good companion for a hunting family in rural environments. The Ariegeois has a lean body, deep chest and strong legs.

The coat is short and smooth, always white with black patches and obligatory tan markings above the eyes, inside the ears and under the tail. Average height is around 23 inches.