Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Français blanc et noir is considered a robust working breed for which there are currently no breed-specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of typical large-breed issues such as hip dysplasia (HD) and the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), as no genetic tests exist for these conditions. Without targeted health screenings of the parent dogs, a certain residual risk for these skeletal and organ-related disorders remains.
Lifespan
10–12 yrs
Height
62–72 cm
Weight
30–35 kg
Practical
Typical coat colors
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a French White and Black Hound, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →The Français blanc et noir is a tireless, elegant pack hound—bred for hours of tracking in large packs, equipped with a keen nose and a piercing bay. A highly specialized athlete built for the hunt, not for the sofa.
The real vibes check
At home in the pack, this Frenchman is gentle and unobtrusive—but as soon as it catches a scent, it flips the switch into an unstoppable working machine. You aren't getting an attentive companion dog, but a highly specialized professional hunter whose world consists of smells and distances. If you don't share this passion, you will spend the next few years frustrated at the end of a very tight long-line.
The Français blanc et noir, also known as the French White and Black Hound, is an elegant and enduring hunting dog breed from France. It belongs to the group of scenthounds and was specifically bred for tracking and pursuing game. Its appearance is characterized by a white coat with distinctive black spots, a slender but muscular build, and long, hanging ears typical of scenthounds. The head is elongated with expressive, dark eyes that reflect its attentiveness and intelligence. The Français blanc et noir is known for its high endurance, keen sense of smell, and friendly yet hardworking nature. As with many hunting dogs, there are differences within the breed between working and show lines, with the working line often being somewhat slimmer and more functional in build. Overall, the Français blanc et noir is a reliable and dedicated companion for active people seeking a passionate hunting dog or a lively family dog.
| Height | 62 - 68 cm (Female), 65 - 72 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 30 - 35 kg (Female), 30 - 35 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 - 12 years |
| Character | Intelligent, alert, affectionate with the family, but reserved towards strangers, high hunting drive |
| Coat | Short, dense, without undercoat |
| Coat Color | Black and white |
| Price | 1500 - 2500 € |
The history of the Français blanc et noir, also known as the French White and Black Hound, dates back to the 17th century. Originally, this breed was bred in France to assist in hunting game such as deer and wild boar. The dogs were characterized by their endurance, keen sense of smell, and ability to work in rough terrain. In the 19th century, the breed was systematically further developed to improve its hunting qualities and create a uniform appearance. The Français blanc et noir quickly became popular among French nobles and hunters and is today considered one of the oldest French hound breeds.
The Français blanc et noir was bred to hunt big game in large packs and is known for its endurance and powerful bell.
France
1957
The French White-Black Running Hound is a lively and enduring hunting dog with a pronounced sense of smell. It is characterized by its high enthusiasm for work and strong hunting drive, making it a reliable partner for tracking wounded game. Despite its independent character, it is loyal to its owner and shows a close bond with the family. This dog requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced. It is willing to learn but sometimes a bit stubborn, which is why consistent and patient training is important. The French White-Black Running Hound is friendly with people but can be reserved towards strangers. Its endurance and pronounced sense of smell make it an excellent tracking dog, while its calm nature is appreciated in the family. It is not a typical guard dog but shows vigilance when needed. Overall, the French White-Black Running Hound is an active, intelligent, and loyal companion for experienced dog owners who can meet its needs for activity and leadership.
| Trainability Has its own ideas and will test limits. | Strong-willed |
| Watchfulness Occasionally alerts but is fundamentally open. | Low |
| Openness to Strangers Neither pushily friendly nor suspicious. | Neutral |
| Hunting or Herding Drive This drive runs deep — no amount of training eliminates it. | Very strong |
Fun Fact!
The French White-Black Hound is a true endurance specialist with a keen sense for tracks – its nose is so sharp that it hardly loses a trail even in dense forest. Originally bred for hunting hares, it now also delights as a family dog with its friendly nature and tireless energy.
The French White-Black Hound is a persistent and hardworking hunting dog. It is characterized by its good nose and pronounced sense of smell. These dogs are friendly and easy to train but require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They are especially suitable for active families and hunters looking for a reliable companion in the field.
The French White-Black Hound is a balanced and friendly dog that is well suited as a family companion. It shows a calm and patient nature, which makes it especially attractive for families with children. Despite its pronounced hunting passion, it is generally compatible with other dogs and pets if socialized early. This dog needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to remain balanced and content. Ideal are long walks, search games, and activities that promote its sense of smell. Purely apartment living is less suitable, as the French White-Black Hound needs space and regular activity to channel its temperament positively.
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
The French White-Black Running Hound is an intelligent and eager-to-work dog that requires consistent and patient training. Similar to the Labrador, it is important to provide meaningful activities that appeal to its natural hunting and tracking instincts. Fetch games and search tasks are excellent for challenging its mind without overwhelming it. As with the German Shepherd, training should be positive and reward-based to build a trusting bond. Due to its strong hunting drive, it is important to promote impulse control and frustration tolerance early on to prevent unwanted behavior. The French White-Black Running Hound benefits from varied activities such as tracking work, obedience, or other dog sports that enhance its endurance and concentration. It is crucial to avoid overexertion and to allow the dog rest periods. Overall, this breed requires dedicated training that takes its natural traits into account while ensuring balance. Those willing to invest time and patience will gain a loyal, eager-to-learn, and versatile companion.
The French White-Black Hound requires a balanced diet that supports its active urge to move. High-quality food with a good proportion of proteins and nutrients is important to strengthen its muscles and promote endurance. Be careful to avoid overfeeding, as this breed can be prone to overweight, which strains the joints. The coat of the French White-Black Hound is short and dense, which makes grooming easier. Regular brushing, about once a week, is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy. During the shedding season in spring and autumn, increased hair loss can occur; more intensive brushing is helpful here. This breed is well adapted to the Central European climate. The short coat provides sufficient protection against the cold, but additional protection should be considered in extreme weather conditions. In summer, ensure enough shade and water to prevent overheating.
| Care Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Shedding Barely any shedding — occasional vacuuming is enough. | Minimal |
| Trainability Has its own ideas and will test limits. | Strong-willed |
This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Solid
The Français blanc et noir is considered a robust working breed for which there are currently no breed-specific mandatory genetic tests. Nevertheless, buyers should be aware of typical large-breed issues such as hip dysplasia (HD) and the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), as no genetic tests exist for these conditions. Without targeted health screenings of the parent dogs, a certain residual risk for these skeletal and organ-related disorders remains.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
You should ensure joint-friendly exercise, clean the floppy ears regularly, and enforce strict rest periods after meals to prevent life-threatening gastric torsion.
Reputable breeders have the hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts of the parent animals checked and pay attention to healthy chest anatomy to minimize risks in the bloodline.
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Als passionierter Jäger habe ich mich bewusst für den Français blanc et noir entschieden. Bei der Jagd auf Reh- und Hochwild ist er absolut in seinem Element. Seine feine Nase, die unbändige Ausdauer und vor allem sein ausgeprägter Spurlaut faszinieren mich jedes Mal aufs Neue. Er arbeitet unglaublich konzentriert und passioniert im Revier.
Zu Hause zeigt er jedoch ein völlig anderes Gesicht. Nach getaner Arbeit ist er erstaunlich ruhig, sanftmütig und anhänglich. Man darf aber nicht vergessen, dass diese Hunde für die Arbeit gezüchtet wurden – ohne eine echte Aufgabe und reichlich Bewegung verkümmern sie. Für mich ist er der perfekte Jagdbegleiter, der im Alltag aber eine klare, konsequente Führung braucht.
Unsere Hündin kam über den Tierschutz aus Frankreich zu uns. Da sie vorher nur das Leben in einer Jagdmeute und im Zwinger kannte, stand uns anfangs eine steile Lernkurve bevor. Die Stubenreinheit, normale Alltagsgeräusche im Haus und vor allem das ordentliche Gehen an der Leine waren echte Herausforderungen, die uns einiges an Geduld abverlangt haben.
Heute ist sie im Haus ein absoluter 'Sofatyp' und schläft stundenlang tiefenentspannt auf ihrem Platz. Was uns im Alltag besonders begeistert, ist ihre enorme soziale Kompetenz. Durch ihre Vergangenheit im Rudel zeigt sie keinerlei Aggressionen gegenüber anderen Hunden, ist extrem verträglich und uns Menschen gegenüber unglaublich sanftmütig und anhänglich.
Wir halten unseren Rüden in einer ländlichen Gegend mit einem großen, sicher eingezäunten Garten – und den braucht er auch, denn sein Jagdtrieb im Freilauf ist eine echte Hausnummer und macht das Ableinen im Wald unmöglich. Da wir selbst nicht jagen, lasten wir ihn alternativ intensiv mit Mantrailing aus. Das fordert seinen extremen Fährtenwillen perfekt und macht ihn glücklich.
Man muss wissen, dass diese Rasse sehr sensibel ist. Mit Härte erreicht man bei der Erziehung gar nichts, außer dass der Hund stur schaltet und das Vertrauen verliert – positive Verstärkung ist hier der einzige Weg. Außerdem leidet er schnell, wenn er zu lange alleine gelassen wird. Als Meutehund braucht er einfach die Gesellschaft seiner Familie oder idealerweise einen Zweithund an seiner Seite.
sinngemäß aus echten Halterberichten
Breeding French White and Black Hound? Reach responsible puppy buyers and showcase your kennel on HonestDog.
The French White and Black Hound is an adaptable dog that adjusts well to various lifestyles. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
The average life expectancy of a French White and Black Hound is 10-12 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
French White and Black Hound grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
The French White and Black Hound can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
Find verified French White and Black Hound breeders in your region
Other breeds with available puppies from verified breeders
What makes HonestDog different from other platforms
We provide complete transparency in the breeding process, offering detailed information about breeders, their practices, health checks, and genetic testing results in an easily understandable format, ensuring buyers can make informed decisions confidently.
Our platform prioritizes responsible breeding practices, ensuring all breeders meet stringent criteria including health checks and genetic testing for parent dogs, eliminating the worry of encountering unethical breeders or puppy mills.
HonestDog verifies both breeders and buyers, fostering a trusted community where interactions are reliable and secure, setting a new standard for trustworthiness in the dog breeding industry.
By featuring thoroughly vetted breeders and providing comprehensive information, HonestDog saves buyers valuable time that would otherwise be spent researching and vetting breeders, allowing them to focus on choosing the perfect puppy for their family.

We connect dog lovers with responsible breeders and shelters to ensure every dog finds the perfect home.
Founded by dog enthusiasts, our platform focuses on ethical dog breeding and adoption.
We connect you with vetted breeders and shelters so you can find your new companion with confidence.
Only verified breeders and shelters — for a safe start.
Every animal's health and wellbeing is our top priority.
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.