Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy of around 13 to 14 years, the Epagneul Picard can accompany its family for a long time if its physical activity, its diet and its veterinary follow-up remain suited to its lifestyle.
Build
A robust breed?
Its solid build, hardiness and good tolerance of bad weather make it an overall robust dog. This natural endurance does not exempt it from regular maintenance, especially after outings in the countryside, in undergrowth or in wet areas.
Watch points
What to watch for
Vigilance mainly concerns the routine care of an active dog and monitoring of the drooping ears, which are more exposed to moisture and irritation. Good hygiene after outings and regular checks help to limit small everyday problems.
Otitis : Like many dogs with drooping ears, it may be more prone to inflammation of the ear canal, especially after wet outings or swimming.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Picardy Spaniel tolerates cool and humid climates well, which corresponds to its history as a field hunting dog. In hot periods, efforts must be adapted and intense outings shifted to the most temperate hours.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Even though it is athletic, the Picardy Spaniel can be greedy. Maintaining a healthy weight requires a ration adjusted to its actual activity, measured treats and regular monitoring of its body shape.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Dry and inspect the ears after working in cover or in water.
- Keep the dog lean to protect the joints.
- Avoid strenuous exertion during growth.
Vaccination
Picardy Spaniel vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Picardy Spaniel? Like all cats, the Picardy Spaniel receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Picardy Spaniel is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Picardy Spaniel vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Picardy Spaniel?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Picardy Spaniel
Request hip evaluations and an eye examination of the breeding dogs, as well as a recent clinical assessment. Annual follow-up with monitoring of weight, ears and locomotion is recommended.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
