French Spaniel

Also called Canadian Setter, Épagneul Français and French Setter

  • Great with kids
  • Loves other dogs
  • Needs space
  • Needs lots of exercise

The French Spaniel is a medium-sized gun dog that originated in France. It is a strong and powerful breed, with a short, smooth coat. Its head is large, with a long muzzle and large, floppy ears. Its legs are strong and muscular, and its tail is usually docked. The French Spaniel is an intelligent and loyal breed, and it makes an excellent family pet. It is an active breed, and it needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. It is loyal and affectionate, and it enjoys spending time with its family.

Weight
44–55 lb (20–25 kg)
Height at the shoulder
21–24 in (54–61 cm)
Life span
12–15 years
Exercise
About 90 minutes a day
Coat
Medium
Origin
France

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: Good with children
  • Other dogs: Great with other dogs
  • Strangers: Polite with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Energetic
  • Apartment living: Needs space
  • Barking: Barks a little
  • Training: Easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Regular brushing
  • Shedding: Sheds moderately
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Affectionate Calm Docile Enthusiastic hunter Sociable Soft

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 44–55 lb (20–25 kg) 44–55 lb (20–25 kg)
Height 22–24 in (55–61 cm) 21–23 in (54–59 cm)

Recognized by

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a French Spaniel

Find pet services near you that suit this breed.

Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 12–15 years.

Find veterinarians

Groomers

A groom every few months keeps its coat in good shape.

Find groomers

Dog walkers

Needs about 90 minutes of exercise a day.

Find dog walkers

Dog daycares

Sociable and lively: daycare keeps it busy while you work.

Find dog daycares

Breeds of a similar size

All medium breeds
An American Leopard Hound
Medium

American Leopard Hound

Foundation Stock Service

  • Weight:35–75 lb (16–34 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
An Australian Kelpie
Medium

Australian Kelpie

Foundation Stock Service

  • Weight:24–44 lb (11–20 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).