St Germain Pointing Dog
Breed Description

The St Germain Pointing Dog is primarily known by its French name, Braque Saint-Germain. In France and other French-speaking regions, this is the most commonly used designation for the breed. Some enthusiasts and breed clubs may refer to it simply as the Saint-Germain Pointer or occasionally as the Compiegne Pointer, though this latter name is less frequently used today.

Within French hunting circles, the breed may be affectionately called the Saint-Germain or abbreviated to BSG in written correspondence and breed documentation. The breed's name derives from the Chateau de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, located near Paris, where the breed was developed in the mid-nineteenth century. Regardless of the variation used, all names refer to the same elegant French pointing breed known for its orange and white coat pattern and exceptional hunting abilities in varied terrain.

The St Germain Pointing Dog is a medium-sized French gundog with a distinctive appearance and graceful build. This breed exhibits an elegant yet athletic frame designed for endurance and agility in the field. The breed's most recognizable feature is its beautiful white coat adorned with orange markings, creating a striking visual impression. The coat is short, smooth, and close-lying, requiring minimal grooming while providing adequate protection during hunting activities.

The head is proportionate to the body with a moderately long muzzle and a gentle expression enhanced by kind, amber-colored eyes. Ears are set at eye level, hanging close to the head with slightly rounded tips. The St Germain Pointing Dog possesses a well-developed chest, straight back, and muscular hindquarters that contribute to its stamina and speed. The tail is typically carried horizontally or slightly elevated when the dog is working.

This breed combines the pointing instincts of its English Pointer ancestry with the versatility valued in French hunting dogs. The St Germain Pointing Dog moves with fluid, efficient strides that cover ground effortlessly. Its overall appearance conveys both refinement and functionality, reflecting centuries of selective breeding for hunting performance and companionship.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The St Germain Pointing Dog is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As a French breed with limited presence outside of Europe, it has not yet achieved AKC registration status. Enthusiasts in North America interested in the breed typically work through the Foundation Stock Service or maintain connections with European breed organizations. The breed remains primarily concentrated in France and neighboring countries where its hunting abilities are valued and preserved through dedicated breeding programs.

Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI recognizes the St Germain Pointing Dog under Standard Number 115 in Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 (Continental Pointing Dogs, Braque type). The standard describes a medium-sized dog with males standing 56-62 cm and females 54-59 cm at the withers. The head should be long without being heavy, with a straight or slightly convex nasal bridge. Eyes are golden yellow to dark yellow, expressing gentleness and intelligence. Ears are set at eye level, falling without folds, and reaching the throat. The body is well-proportioned with a broad, deep chest and a straight, firm back. The coat must be short and smooth, exclusively white with orange markings which may appear as patches or fine speckles. Movement should be supple, ground-covering, and powerful. Faults include any deviation from the standard, with severe faults including aggression, extreme shyness, anatomical malformations, and coat colors other than white and orange.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The United Kennel Club does not currently recognize the St Germain Pointing Dog as a registered breed. The UKC primarily focuses on breeds with established populations in North America and active breed clubs supporting registration and competition activities. The St Germain Pointing Dog remains a relatively rare breed internationally, with its strongest presence maintained in France under the guidance of the Societe Centrale Canine and French hunting dog enthusiasts.

Other Organizations

The Societe Centrale Canine (SCC), France's national kennel club, maintains the primary breed standard and registry for the St Germain Pointing Dog. The SCC works closely with dedicated breed clubs in France to preserve the breed's working abilities and conformation standards. Several European hunting dog organizations also recognize the breed, particularly in countries with strong continental pointing dog traditions. These organizations emphasize the importance of maintaining the breed's natural hunting instincts, trainability, and distinctive physical characteristics. Breed enthusiasts participate in field trials, conformation shows, and working tests that evaluate both the dog's appearance and its practical hunting capabilities, ensuring the St Germain Pointing Dog remains a functional sporting breed.

The St Germain Pointing Dog emerged in France during the mid-nineteenth century through deliberate breeding efforts at the royal kennels of Compiegne. The breed's development is attributed to Baron de Larminat and other French nobility who sought to create an elegant pointing dog that combined the speed and nose of English Pointers with the versatility desired in French hunting dogs. The foundation of the breed involved crossing English Pointers with French Braques, specifically Braque Francais dogs that were popular in France at the time.

The breed takes its name from the Chateau de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, located west of Paris, where much of the early breeding program was conducted. During the 1830s and 1840s, French hunters increasingly valued dogs that could work effectively in diverse terrain, from open fields to wooded areas. The St Germain Pointing Dog was developed to meet these demands while maintaining an attractive appearance suitable for the aristocratic owners who patronized the breed.

By the late nineteenth century, the St Germain Pointing Dog had established itself as a distinct breed with a dedicated following among French hunters. The breed's population suffered during both World War I and World War II, as many breeding programs were disrupted and hunting activities were curtailed. Following World War II, French breed enthusiasts worked diligently to rebuild the breed's numbers and maintain its working abilities. The breed was officially recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale, solidifying its status as a distinct Continental pointing breed.

Throughout the twentieth century, the St Germain Pointing Dog remained primarily concentrated in France, where it continued to be valued as both a hunting companion and show dog. Unlike some pointing breeds that gained international popularity, the St Germain Pointing Dog maintained a relatively small but devoted following. Breed clubs in France organized field trials and conformation events that emphasized the breed's dual-purpose nature. Today, the breed remains rare outside of France and neighboring European countries, with dedicated breeders working to preserve its unique characteristics and hunting heritage. The St Germain Pointing Dog represents an important part of French cynological history and continues to demonstrate the qualities that made it valuable to nineteenth-century hunters.

The St Germain Pointing Dog was developed specifically as a versatile hunting dog capable of locating, pointing, and retrieving game birds in varied terrain. The breed excels at working in open fields, agricultural lands, and moderately wooded areas where upland game birds are found. When hunting, the St Germain Pointing Dog demonstrates a natural pointing instinct, freezing in position when it detects game scent, allowing the hunter to approach and flush the birds. This pointing behavior is innate to the breed and typically requires minimal training to develop fully.

Beyond pointing, the St Germain Pointing Dog is also valued for its retrieving abilities. After birds are shot, the dog can locate and retrieve fallen game, making it a complete hunting companion rather than a specialist in one aspect of the hunt. The breed's keen nose, stamina, and willingness to work closely with hunters make it effective for extended hunting sessions. French hunters particularly appreciate the breed's adaptability to different types of terrain and weather conditions, as well as its ability to adjust its hunting style based on the environment and the type of game being pursued.

In modern times, while the St Germain Pointing Dog continues to serve as a hunting companion, many individuals also participate in competitive field trials and hunting tests organized by breed clubs and sporting dog organizations. These events evaluate the dog's natural abilities, training, and performance in simulated hunting scenarios. Additionally, some St Germain Pointing Dogs serve as beloved family companions, though they thrive best in homes where their hunting instincts and high energy levels can be appropriately channeled through activities such as running, hiking, and interactive games that engage their remarkable scenting abilities and intelligence.

The St Germain Pointing Dog exhibits a temperament that balances working drive with affectionate companionship. This breed is known for its intelligence, trainability, and strong desire to please its handler, making it responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. In the home environment, the St Germain Pointing Dog is typically calm and well-mannered when its exercise needs are adequately met. However, without sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation, the breed may become restless or develop unwanted behaviors stemming from pent-up energy.

Socially, the St Germain Pointing Dog tends to be friendly and gentle with family members, forming strong bonds with those who provide consistent care and interaction. The breed generally displays patience with children, particularly when raised alongside them and properly socialized during puppyhood. With strangers, the St Germain Pointing Dog may initially appear reserved or cautious, though it typically warms up once it determines there is no threat. This breed is not naturally aggressive but will alert its family to unusual activities or visitors, making it a competent watchdog despite not being bred for protection work.

The St Germain Pointing Dog possesses a notable prey drive that stems from its hunting heritage, which means it may chase small animals, birds, or fast-moving objects. This instinct requires management through training and secure containment when outdoors. With other dogs, the breed is generally sociable and can coexist peacefully with canine companions, especially when properly introduced and socialized. The breed's behavior in multi-dog households is typically cooperative rather than dominant. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed, and activities such as scent work, obedience training, and puzzle toys help maintain behavioral balance and prevent boredom-related issues.

The St Germain Pointing Dog thrives in family environments where it receives consistent attention, exercise, and mental engagement. This breed forms deep attachments to its human family members and prefers to be involved in daily activities rather than left alone for extended periods. Families considering this breed should be prepared to dedicate time to outdoor activities, as the St Germain Pointing Dog requires substantial exercise to maintain its physical health and emotional well-being. Ideal homes include those with access to safe, open spaces where the dog can run and explore under supervision.

With children, the St Germain Pointing Dog typically demonstrates gentleness and patience, making it a suitable companion for families with kids who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. However, as with any breed, supervision is important during interactions between dogs and young children to ensure safety for both parties. The breed's playful nature means it often enjoys participating in active games with older children who can engage in fetch, running, or other energy-burning activities. Teaching children appropriate boundaries and respectful handling helps establish positive relationships between the dog and younger family members.

In households with multiple pets, the St Germain Pointing Dog can integrate successfully when proper introductions and socialization occur. The breed generally coexists peacefully with other dogs, particularly when raised together or introduced gradually. However, owners should be mindful of the breed's hunting instincts around smaller pets such as cats, rabbits, or birds. Early socialization and training can help manage prey-driven behaviors, though supervision may always be necessary depending on the individual dog's temperament. The St Germain Pointing Dog flourishes in active households where family members appreciate outdoor recreation and are committed to providing the structure, exercise, and companionship this devoted breed requires to be a well-adjusted family member.

The St Germain Pointing Dog is generally considered a healthy breed with a life expectancy of twelve to fourteen years when provided with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention. Like all purebred dogs, the breed may be predisposed to certain health conditions that potential owners should be aware of. Responsible breeders conduct health screenings on breeding stock to minimize the occurrence of hereditary conditions and produce healthy puppies. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and scheduling routine veterinary examinations contribute significantly to the breed's overall health and longevity.

Prospective owners should work with breeders who prioritize health testing and can provide documentation of health clearances for breeding dogs. Regular veterinary care including vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care helps maintain the St Germain Pointing Dog's health throughout its life. Owners should also monitor their dog's condition, noting any changes in behavior, appetite, or physical appearance that might indicate emerging health concerns requiring professional evaluation.

If you're looking to adopt a Braque Saint-Germain, consider contacting these pointing and sporting dog rescue organizations that work with rare hunting breeds:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Braque Saint-Germain waiting for their forever homes.