Artois Hound

The Artois hound, or Chien d'Artois, is a medium French scenthound from the Artois region of northern France. It belongs to the old pack-hound tradition and was kept for hunting hare and other game by nose, with a deep voice and a determined, ground-covering gait. The breed nearly disappeared in the twentieth century and remains uncommon, but surviving lines preserve a sturdy, rectangular dog with a broad head, low-set ears, and the classic tricolor hound pattern of white, fawn, and black.

In a home setting, an Artois hound is best understood as a working scent dog rather than a casual couch hound. It needs long walks, tracking games, or real field work, and secure fencing matters because a fresh trail can override recall. The short coat is easy to maintain, while the hanging ears deserve routine checks after hunting or wet weather. Prospective owners usually look to specialist hound breeders and should ask about working temperament, socialization with other dogs, and basic orthopedic and ear health.