At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
short, fairly fine coat
A big, well-muscled French pack hound with a longish head, long drop ears and a short, rather fine coat.12
Personality what they are like
An energetic, brave and fairly independent hunter with an intelligent look. Indoors it is usually calm and patient, including with children, though its independent streak can make training a slower job.31
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A strong-instinct pack hound for big game that needs plenty of daily running and work; best with active, experienced owners.31
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The short coat is easy to keep, with an occasional brush to remove loose hair.1
Home where they are happiest
Traditionally kept in hunting packs in rural France; needs space and outdoor time rather than a small flat.23
Company who they like around
Bred to hunt in a group directed by a huntsman, so it is used to living and working with other dogs.2
The story where it all began
Created in France from 1957 by blending Poitevin, Billy and Anglo-Français Tricolore blood, possibly with some Grand Bleu de Gascogne. The first standard followed in 1965, and the breed remains rare outside mainland France.3
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
Besides the classic tricolour, a grizzled 'wolf colour' coat is also allowed by the standard.1
- 2
Its official job title in the FCI standard is pack hound for big game.1
- 3
Its first written standard dates from 1965, less than ten years after breeding began.3
- 4
Packs are always hunted under the direction of a human huntsman.2
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 219, Group 6 Scent hounds, Section 1.1 Large-sized hounds; current standard published 01.08.2023.1
- Société Centrale Canine (France)
- Recognised by the French national kennel club; first standard written in 1965.3
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Chien Français Tricolore. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Chien Français Tricolore, and at what times?
Feed your adult Chien Français Tricolore at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help digestion, but exact times can fit your routine. For portion sizes, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Chien Français Tricolore eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Offer a high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially harmful to dogs. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet.5
How often should I bathe a Chien Français Tricolore?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty, using a dog-specific shampoo.6 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Chien Français Tricolore need brushing?
Brush your Chien Français Tricolore weekly to remove loose hair. Its short coat is easy to maintain, and Furry Diary's plan includes a weekly brushing session.6 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Chien Français Tricolore's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Chien Français Tricolore need?
This energetic pack hound needs plenty of daily running and work. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play, and it's best suited for active owners who can provide vigorous exercise.31 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Chien Français Tricolore's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth at least twice a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, especially since they are floppy, and never push anything into the ear canal.6 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Chien Français Tricolore live?
The lifespan of a Chien Français Tricolore varies. For typical longevity, please ask your vet or a good breeder.
Is a Chien Français Tricolore good with children and other pets?
Yes, it is usually calm and patient with children, and being a pack hound, it gets along well with other dogs. Early socialization is important due to its independent nature.312
Can a Chien Français Tricolore be left alone?
This breed is used to being with other dogs and may not do well alone for long periods. It's best to provide company or avoid leaving it alone too much. For specific advice, ask a breeder or vet.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 219 Français Tricolore fci.beused for recognition, height, coat, colour, utilisation
- Chien Français Tricolore - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, build, colour, pack use
- Français tricolore - Wikipédia (fr) fr.wikipedia.orgused for history, first standard, temperament, use
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.