The Blues

Look away now if you don't want to see loads of blue hounds. You've been warned.

Gary and I went on a field trip to Limoux to visit the 45th annual competition for Bleu de Gascogne dogs. You're familiar with 101 Dalmations? This was 776 Lily Blues. The six variations of Bleus were all represented.

You have the Grand Bleus, the originals. Allegedly the Comte de Foix hunted boar, wolves and bears with a beautiful pack of these hounds in the 14th century. They're called Grand not for their size, but for the size of game they were bred to hunt. Having said that, the Grands are très grand indeed and can weigh over 50 kgs.

There are also Petit Bleus which were bred to hunt smaller game. They have the same distinctive markings but come in a smaller size, about the same as a labrador.

Another variation is the Basset Bleu. Prize-winning moustache on the judge.

There are two white variations. Not our faves so we won't dwell on them.

Because we need to move on to our Bleu of choice, the Griffons! They have some element of wire hair. Some are shaggy, others have smooth and feathery hair in combination, which is what I love about Lily Blue.

Lily likeness...

All the Bleu varieties are known for their deep, sonorous voices. This was rather impressive en masse. Our choir could use some basses, but I'm guessing Bleus don't sight read. Even Lily, for a smallish dog, has a bark of Baskervillian timbre. I was glad there weren't any puppies at the show. This is the youngest little lady we saw. We were impressed by how friendly and laid back the hounds were.

It was a real glimpse into an aspect of rural French life we don't know very much about. I don't need to go again, but it was fascinating to see all the characters, canine and human.