The King's White Hound, or Chien Blanc du Roi, was a breed of scent hound from France that is now extinct. Known for its distinctive appearance and hunting capabilities, this breed was a favorite among French royalty. Although the breed no longer exists, its characteristics have been documented, providing insight into what made these hounds so special.
Physical Appearance
The King's White Hounds were large and powerful, initially resembling deep-scenting, long-eared scent hounds
similar to the St. Hubert Hound. Over time, they developed many features of sighthounds, which contributed to their reputation for speed and agility. Charles IX described them as being "as tall as greyhounds, with heads as fine as braques." While the breed was initially all white, the hounds eventually came in a variety of colors, including pure white, white with yellow, red, or black spots or patches, and even badger or pure black. This diversity in appearance did not detract from their uniformity in performance and capability.
Hunting Abilities
The King's White Hounds were renowned for their courage and focus during hunts. They were not easily distracted by the large retinue of hunt followers that accompanied the royal hunts. Their ability to hunt by both sight and scent made them versatile and effective in tracking and capturing game. During the reign of Louis XIII, these hounds were celebrated for their speed, capable of running down a stag in half an hour and killing four stags in a single day's hunt. This combination of speed, strength, and determination made them highly valued by the French monarchy.
Legacy and Influence
Although the King's White Hound is now extinct, its legacy lives on through its influence on other French hound breeds. The breed is believed to have played a foundational role in the development of the Grand Griffon Vendéen, the Porcelaine, and the Billy. The latter is sometimes referred to as the Chien Blanc du Roi, a nod to its royal lineage. These breeds continue to carry forward the traits that made the King's White Hound so esteemed, ensuring that its impact on the world of hounds is not forgotten.
The King's White Hound remains a fascinating subject for those interested in the history of dog breeds and the evolution of hunting hounds. Its unique characteristics and royal connections make it a notable chapter in the story of canine development.
