How do you pronounce the name of the breed?

Pronouncing the name of the breed is often a challenge for English speakers, and even some French speakers! The word "Epagneul" can be translated as "spaniel". It is pronounced "Aye-pan- yull". Pont-Audemer is the name of the town for which the breed is named. It is pronounced "Pon- toe-demare". So the name of the breed in French is "Aye-pan-yull duh Pon-toe-demare". In English it is Pont-Audemer Spaniel. Breeders and owners of these dogs simplify the name to "Ponto"

Do Pontos point?

Yes.
The breed is classified by the FCI as a member of "group 7" which is for all the pointing breeds. Throughout its history however there have been reports of Pontos with little or no pointing instinct. This may be true of a few specimens but is most likely due to the fact that the Ponto was, at one time, a very close working breed that hunted mainly in marshy terrain where flushing game was the norm. It is very probable that some hunters with Pontos did not want the dogs to point, prefering to let the dog flush game from the thick reeds. A well-bred Ponto today however has a strong pointing instinct that develops fairly early. All the dogs used in our breeding program are proven preformers in pointing dog trials.

 

Are Pontos good retrievers?

Yes.
Their Irish Water Spaniel ancestry has given the breed a love for water and a strong natural retrieve. All our dogs are very soft mouthed and show a strong tendency to retrieve from a very early age. Pontos can be expected to retrieve all types of upland game and waterfowl.

 

What is their range when running in the field

Traditionally the Pont Audemer Spaniel was a close working dog, never going much beyond gun range. There are still Pontos to be found today that show this kind of range. However, our breeding efforts have been towards a wider ranging and faster dog. In open terrain our dogs typically show a medium to wide range, making casts of up to 300 or more meters from the gun. In heavier cover they tend to work closer in. The breed has a strong tendancy to maintain contact with the hunter so will adjust its range to suit the conditions.

 

Are Pontos easy to train?

Pontos are usually quite cooperative dogs that become very attached to their master making them easy to train. They tend to learn quickly and retain what they have learned. They do however have a softer temperament than some breeds. They do not respond well to forceful training methods. Pontos make excellent family dogs since they thrive on human companionship.

 
The breed sounds just right for me. How do I get pup?
If you are seriously considering a Pont Audemer Spaniel as a hunting companion we would be very happy to speak with you regarding our upcoming litters, pups or started dogs. We only breed one or two litters per year and may have a waiting list but we encourage serious enquiries since we are always looking for "just the right home" for all our pups. If we are unable to provide you with a pup we may be able to recommend another breeder. There are a few breeders in France whose priorities are in line with the needs of the hunter and trialer. Of course you should be sure to do the necessary research and, if at all possible, request a demonstration of the abilities of the breeding stock. We would be more than happy to show you our dogs in action in the field. Please Note Enquiries sent directly to me may be sent in English although I would prefer to communicate in French. My good friend Craig Koshyk of Winnipeg, Canada has agreed to take requests for information in English. You may contact him by e-mail or by telephone at (204) 885-1541. Craig will be happy to facilitate the communication between us.