East European Shepherd vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison

East European Shepherd vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed ComparisonEast European Shepherd is originated from Russia but Braque Saint-Germain is originated from France. East European Shepherd may grow 14 cm / 6 inches higher than Braque Saint-Germain. East European Shepherd may weigh 15 kg / 34 pounds more than Braque Saint-Germain. East European Shepherd may live 3 years less than Braque Saint-Germain. Both East European Shepherd and Braque Saint-Germain has almost same litter size. East European Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Braque Saint-Germain requires Low maintenance

History

east european shepherd - historyThe East European Shepherd is a dog which hails from Russia. The dog was developed in the 1930-1950s as there was a need for a bigger, more robust, weather-resistant type of dog who would perform all kinds of guard duties in the Soviet Union.

This is a rare dog breed, created by mixing Russian breeds such as the Laika, Central Asian Shepherd and Caucasian Shepherd to create a strong working dog that could cope well with the sub-freezing conditions.

The standard breed type was established in 1964. The only major kennel club to grant full recognition to the East-European Shepherd is the Russian Kennel Club. In the United States, the dog is recognized by a number of rare breed registries.

braque saint germain - historyThe Braque Saint-Germain, also known as the St. Germain Pointing Dog, is a French creation. The French pointing dogs and the English pointing dogs were mixed to develop the Braque Saint-Germain. He is a versatile hunting dog that was both a pointer and a gun dog. They are medium to large in size and went from being bred by royalty in the 1830’s to a popular everyday hunting dog. The ancestry of the breed can be traced back many additional centuries.

As popular as the Braque Saint-Germain was as a hunter, he gained his notoriety in the show ring. The first time a Braque Saint-Germain entered the ring in 1863 it was an acclaimed breed and upstaged all other pointing breeds. The French Braque Saint-Germain club was opened in 1913 and recognized by the Federation Cynoloqique International (FCI) and in 2006 was recognized by the North American United Kennel Club. Their popularity has risen and fallen since World War II. It has flirted with extinction more than once. Today’s Braque Saint-Germain is a highly talented hunting dog with a standard appearance that still does well in the ring.

The English Pointer was a cross between the hound dogs, British gundog, Spanish Pointer and herding breeds. This made the English Pointer a very versatile breed before it was crossed with the Braque Francais Gascogne. The Braque Francais Gascogne itself is believed to have developed from the Chien d-Oysel and Italian and Spanish pointing dogs. The English Pointer was specialized in pointing and the French Braque Francais Gascogne was a very versatile dog. In the Braque Saint-Germain the dog world has a versatile, excellent pointing dog.

In the 1800’s the French Crown was gifted with two English Pointers that were great at hunting. Some considered the English Pointers to be better than any of their Braque Francais. The female of these two pointers was bred many times but the male died without breeding. The female’s first litter was with a brown German Spaniel and were of low quality. Her second litter however was with an outstanding bird dog and produced 7 excellent puppies. Because of this these two dogs were bred several more times. The owner of the adult dogs moved to Saint-Germain, where their appearance attracted many hunters. The breed flourished here and was named the Braque Saint-Germain.

Soon corrupt individuals sold non-purebreds as Braque Saint-Germains and handlers showed these dogs under the Saint-Germain name. There are always dangers when a popular breed’s beginnings comes from only two dogs. In 1913 the new breed club fought over the standard and ended up producing two types. The first type was a sturdy dog with long ears and a round chest. He was larger and slower than his cousin. The second type was a smaller dog with a finer skeleton and short, high set ears. He was a galloper to his cousin’s trot.

The breed found itself facing near extinction in 1914 and during all of World War I. Dogs were not bred and many were not properly cared for. The breed became quite rare. Then as it began to recover, the Second World War intervened and devasted the breed again. By the end of the war, they were once again very rare and on the edge of extinction. It took a dedicated effort from local breeders to bring the breed back. By the 1950’s the two types of Braque Saint-Germain dogs were molded into only one breed. There remained a conflict between those that bred show dogs and those that bred hunting dogs.

Slowly the breed grew in number and in the late 1990’s there were over 100 puppies registered into the club every year. More than 100 were entered into the clubs in 2009. There have also been a few English Pointer crosses allowed to breed with the Braque Saint-Germains in order to grow and improve the gene pool. Still the breed is exceedingly rare outside of France. Through it all the breed has been able to maintain its place in confirmation and still be a versatile hunting dog.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
Origin:
Russia
France
Height Male:
66 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
56 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
Height Female:
66 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
55 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
20 - 35 kg
44 - 78 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
16 - 28 kg
35 - 62 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 10
4 - 8
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Belarusian Shepherd, Eastern European Shepherd, Byelorussian Shepherd
Saint-Germain Pointer, French Pointer (Saint-Germain), Saint-Germain Pointing Dog, French Pointing Dog (Saint-Germain) Braque d’Auvergne Pointer, Auvergne Pointer, Braque du Auvergne, Auvergnese Pointer, Auvergne Pointing Dog, Auvergnian Pointer, Auvergnese Pointing Dog, Auvergnian Pointing Dog Bleu de Auvergne, Bleu d’Auvergne
Colors Available:
Solid colored or fawn or tan with black saddle
Dull white with orange (fawn) markings
Coat:
Medium length and dense
short not fine
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Cheerful, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Description

east european shepherd puppy - descriptionThe East European Shepherd is larger than a German Shepherd. He is described as a large dog with males and females standing roughly at 66-76 centimeters at the withers and weighing anything between 30–50kg.

The coat with undercoat is medium in length with the standard color being black-and-tan or black-and-red. The dog is solid colored or is light fawn or tan in color with black saddle.

The face of the dog is black and he looks a lot like a wolf in appearance. The ears of the East European Shepherd are medium sized and always erect.The tail is long and hangs low.

Temperament:

The East European Shepherd is an intelligent and confident dog and can be aggressive when aggravated. He is a working dog and to get along with other pets in the home as well as children, the East European Shepherd will need to be trained and socialized, becoming obedient and loyal with his owner.

He is an intelligent dog and training him poses no problem. Loyal and devoted, this dog mostly becomes particularly attached to one member of the family.

There are a number of dog experts who don’t recommend the dog as a family pet as it is a dog reluctant to form a close bond with a child, being irritated by them, especially ill disciplined children.

It is a strong-willed dog too and shouldn’t be the first dog choice for a novice dog owner. They make excellent guard dogs and take their role as protector of the family seriously.

braque saint germain puppy - descriptionThe Braque Saint-Germain is very much a pointer and yet is a very attractive dog. They have a medium build, drop ears and a long, level tail tapered at the end. They are really distinctive looking with an athletic, lean, muscled look. The skull is round and the muzzle is the same length as the skull. Their nose is pink , their lips cover their lower jaw and their eyes are golden, round and large. The ears are set high on the head and look like they are slightly detached. The neck is long, muscular and arched, while they have deep chest. They are well proportioned, good looking dogs with a friendly facial expression. Their coat is true to the pointing dog group as it is short, smooth and white with orange markings. Dogs of any other color might be great hunting dogs but are not show dogs and should not be bred

Characteristics

east european shepherd dog - characteristicsThe East-European Shepherd dogs are balanced, confident, intelligent, loving and playful while also being tough and protective of their owners.

They make fantastic guard dogs, becoming aggressive around strangers whom they don’t trust. When you bring a dog like this into the home, it is essential to have him trained and socialized and to also have a firm owner who can deal with such a strong-willed animal.

He is an active, alert dog who will require regular exercise and will slot into life in the city or in the country so long as his exercise needs are met.

When you look after your East European Shepherd you’ll find in him a devoted, loyal friend who will protect you with his life.

braque saint germain dog - characteristicsThe Braque Saint-Germain is a working dog and a show dog. They are energetic, competitive and driven. They are generally affectionate, loyal and love to cuddle with their people. They need human companionship companionship and can have severe separation anxiety when left by themselves. They love being a member of the family with children, but they are likely to knock very young children down unintentionally.

The Braque Saint-Germain is a loyal, gentle breed and some might even be shy. They are not guard dogs. They are much too friendly toward strangers. Even though they were bred to point and track small game, they can be socialized to be safe living with smaller pets such as cats. They are intelligent, fast learners who love to learn. They also love to work and work long hours without fatigue. They will love to be a jogging or cycling partner.

They do best with large yards, rural areas or in hunting packs. They are not small apartment, city dwellers. They do get along with strangers and other animals. They will warn of strangers, but they are not aggressive.

Health Problems

east european shepherd puppies - health problemsRegarded as a tough dog who can reach 10 – 12 years of age, the East European Shepherd is prone to hip or elbow dysplasia. This is a a disease that is more prevalent with German Shepherd type dogs.

Dysplasia is a genetic condition which can lead to inflammation and arthritis and even lameness. Unfortunately it can happen with young dogs too, and the vet will suggest different types of treatment which can include surgery.

Degenerative myelopathy is another degenerative disease which can be found with the East European Shepherd. It is a fatal, progressive degenerative disease of the spinal cord. Unfortunately there isn’t treatment for the disease, leading to paralysis of the limbs.

braque saint germain puppies - health problemsThe breed has very few health issues even with all the cross breeding followed by inbreeding. Due to the small gene pool there might be some genetically inherited problems. Due to the size of the gene pool, they might suffer from “founder’s effect” where if one dog has a certain condition, their descendants could also. Not enough research has been done to know if this is the case with the Braque Saint-Germain of not.

Some of the potential health issues that the3 Braque Saint-Germain might face include:

  • Dysplasia of the hip and elbow.
  • Cleft Palate or Lip.
  • Ear Infections.
  • PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Demodex Mange/Demodectic mange
  • Epilepsy
  • Deafness
  • Aortic Stenosis
  • Acral Mutilation Syndrome

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

east european shepherd dogs - caringThe coat of the East European Shepherd is thick, and while he won’t require any professional grooming, he will require being brushed at least twice a week. This is because he sheds heavily at certain times.

His nails will need to be clipped if they don’t wear down naturally, and his teeth will require regular brushing at least 2 or 3 times a week. Fortunately, because his ears are large and open, he doesn’t easily get an ear infection.

Exercise:

The East European Shepherd is a dog which has always been worked. It is a highly energetic dog and its role as a guard- and herding dog has made it that the dog will require a good dose of exercise.

A long walk may not be enough for this active dog, and he will require intense ball throwing with a tennis racquet to get the ball far away so that he can run far to fetch the ball. Without enough exercise, the East-European Shepherd will develop behavioral problems which will include aggression.

Feeding

braque saint germain dogs - caringThis is a working dog that can run and track for miles. She needs good nutrition. Feed about 3 cups per day in one or two meals. Two meals are preferred.

Health issues

As previously mentioned this breed might be susceptible to many genetic diseases or disorders but there have not been any studies to show this.

Exercise and games

The Braque Saint Germain does not need a high amount of exercise as their energy level is medium. They still need daily exercise. They do best with a fenced off leash area to run. They love frisbee and chasing balls.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Great Pyrenees vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Presa Canario vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Labrador Husky vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Giant Schnauzer vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Goldador vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Mackenzie River Husky vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. German Longhaired Pointer vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyredoodle vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Entlebucher Mountain Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Lurcher vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Maremma Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Sarplaninac vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Himalayan Mastiff vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Mountain View Cur vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Native American Indian Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Greenland Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Komondor vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Polish Tatra Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. Rafeiro do Alentejo vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Fila Brasileiro vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Greek Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Kangal Dog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Himalayan Sheepdog vs East European Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. East Siberian Laika vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  27. French Spaniel vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  28. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  29. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  30. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  31. English Water Spaniel vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  32. Field Spaniel vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  33. Curly Coated Retriever vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  34. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  35. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  36. Shikoku vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  37. Slovakian Hound vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  38. Small Munsterlander vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  39. Sussex Spaniel vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  40. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  41. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  42. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  43. Wetterhoun vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  44. Braque Saint-Germain vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  45. Braque Saint-Germain vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  46. Braque Saint-Germain vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  47. Braque Saint-Germain vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  48. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  49. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  50. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds