The Porcelaine is thought to be a descendant of the English Harrier, together with several other European hounds. There have been records of the breed in France since 1845 and in Switzerland since 1880. The breed disappeared after the French Revolution but has been redeveloped since.
The Porcelaine is a hunting dog, usually used to hunt hare, roe deer and wild boar in the northern areas. The Porcelaines hunt in packs. Being a scent hound, they have a very good sense of smell with which they hunt.
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 12 – 14 years.
The Porcelaine is a hunting dog with a strong prey drive, which means he requires careful attention and handling. He is never shy or timid and always eager for attention and a pat or hug. He is very fond of his owners, family, friends and children and loves to take part in all family activities. He excels as a house pet and is easily crate trained and housebroken. His temperament makes him an excellent candidate for medical therapy, medical alert, medical service and search and rescue.
The Porcelaine is a medium sized, French scent hound. He is elegant, energetic and an excellent hunter. He is very white in colour, with roundish, orange spots, often with characteristic orange ticking on the ears. He is proud, graceful, and cat-like with a stunning appearance. He is athletic, well-muscled, not heavy, and his coat is shiny, thin and close lying.
A regular weekly groom along with an occasional bath will keep the Porcelaine looking his best. Nails should be trimmed regularly, ears checked and teeth cleaned to maintain excellent health.
The Porcelaine will require daily exercise and stimulation, together with human contact.
As with all hounds, early socialisation and consistent training will lead to the Porcelaine developing into a valued family member as an adult.
Height:
Males: 55 to 58cms (22 to 23.5ins)
Females: 53 to 56cms (21.5 to 22.5 ins)
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does. The Porcelaine is a relatively healthy breed overall.
The Porcelaine is an active dog who will thrive with daily exercise and attention, together with consistent training. Thus, he will suit family life and being with energetic, active people. He may not be so suited to apartment life. Whilst quiet in the home, he does possess a very beautiful, melodious baying call.
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.
Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.
Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.
Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/breeds/breed-standards/Porcelaine
