An eager, affectionate spaniel that learns readily and likes to please. In the field it is keen and versatile, and at home it is a warm, loyal companion.1
how to spot oneSaint-Usuge Spaniel coat and colours
medium, feathered coat
A compact spaniel whose body coat is fairly flat, with longer feathering on the ears, chest, shoulders and tail. The tail is left at its natural length.1
A typical home-care rhythm for a Saint-Usuge Spaniel. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
by countryIs the Saint-Usuge Spaniel legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Saint-Usuge Spaniel in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksSaint-Usuge Spaniel exercise needs
A working gundog that enjoys regular, varied outings. It is used on waterfowl and woodcock across different kinds of terrain, and the breed club runs natural aptitude and hunting tests.12
the hands-on bitsSaint-Usuge Spaniel grooming and care
Regular brushing, with a little extra attention to the feathering on the ears, chest and tail, keeps the coat in good order.1
where they are happiestSaint-Usuge Spaniel at home
Best suited to an active home with access to countryside walks and field work.12
who they like aroundSaint-Usuge Spaniel with people and other pets
A people-oriented dog that bonds warmly with its family and responds well to kind, consistent training.1
where it all beganSaint-Usuge Spaniel history
Spaniels of this kind are traced back to the 16th century in the Bresse area, but by the Second World War very few remained. From the 1950s Father Robert Billard rebuilt the breed through careful selection, and a breed club followed in 1990. French recognition came in 2003.1
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
The breed owes its survival largely to one man, the priest Robert Billard, who spent about 33 years rebuilding it.1
2
More than 250 dogs were bred during Father Billard's programme, and over 1,200 more have been bred since 1990.1
3
Many Saint-Usuge Spaniels carry a small white star on the forehead.1
4
The breed is now also found in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Canada and the United States.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is named after the village of Saint-Usuge in the Bresse region of France, where a dog of this type won first prize at a pointing dog competition and was identified by its owner as an 'Epagneul de la région, du village de St-Usuge'.3
I woke to the clatter of my human's boots. I wagged my tail as they grabbed the shotgun, time for a walk! We crossed the field, my nose busy with every scent. A woodcock burst from the bushes and I froze, pointing. My human smiled and gave a low whistle. Later, we splashed through a stream; I fetched a stick and shook water everywhere. At home, I collapsed on the rug, my feathery tail thumping. My human brought a bowl of water and I lapped gratefully. Now I'm dreaming of the next hunt.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
Société Centrale Canine (SCC)
Recognised in France on 8 January 2003; the breed club is affiliated to the SCC.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Saint-Usuge Spaniel, and at what times?
Feed your Saint-Usuge Spaniel at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. For exact amounts, follow the food label and consult your vet.4
What should a Saint-Usuge Spaniel eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a complete list.5
How often should I bathe a Saint-Usuge Spaniel?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests bathing every 28 days, but general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Saint-Usuge Spaniel need brushing?
Brush your Saint-Usuge Spaniel every two days as a starting plan, with extra attention to the feathering on ears, chest, and tail. For a long silky coat, daily brushing is ideal.6Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Saint-Usuge Spaniel's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a professional groomer.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Saint-Usuge Spaniel need?
Your Saint-Usuge Spaniel needs daily exercise with walks and play. As a working gundog, it enjoys varied outings and field work, so aim for at least an hour of activity each day.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Saint-Usuge Spaniel's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and keep them dry, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never insert anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Saint-Usuge Spaniel live?
Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet for a general estimate based on your dog's health and lineage.
Is a Saint-Usuge Spaniel good with children and other pets?
The Saint-Usuge Spaniel is an affectionate, people-oriented dog that bonds warmly with its family. With proper socialization, it is likely to be good with children and other pets.1
Can a Saint-Usuge Spaniel be left alone?
This breed is very people-oriented and bonds closely with its family, so it may not enjoy long periods alone. Whether it can be left alone depends on training and individual temperament; ask a good breeder for advice.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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