Billy Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: FCI
About the Billy
The Billy is a large, elegant French pack scenthound bred for hunting large game such as roe deer, wild boar and hare across open country. Predominantly white with lemon or orange markings, it is a tall, athletic and racy hound with a distinguished bearing and outstanding stamina. It was created by a French breeder who combined several old, now-extinct regional hound lines, and it takes its name from his estate. Bred to hunt in packs, it is sociable with other dogs, energetic and driven, with a powerful voice and a strong nose. Devoted to its handler but very much a working hound, the Billy needs serious exercise, space and a genuine outlet for its hunting instincts.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Where this breed shines
- Excellent stamina and hunting drive
- Very sociable with other dogs as a pack hound
- Low-maintenance short coat
Things to consider
- Bred for serious work; needs abundant exercise and space
- Powerful voice and strong prey drive
- Independent nature makes training slow and rare availability
History
The Billy was developed in early 20th-century France by Gaston Hublot du Rivault, who blended several old French hound breeds including the Ceris, Montemboeuf and Larye to create a large white pack hound. It was named after his estate, Billy, in the Poitou region. The breed's numbers were reduced by the World Wars but were rebuilt, and it remains rare.
Temperament
Billys are energetic, determined and sociable pack hounds that get along well with other dogs. They are devoted to their handler but retain a strong, independent hunting drive. They can be assertive within the pack and need firm, consistent handling and plenty of activity.
Questions to ask a Billy breeder
- Are the parents worked in a hunting pack?
- Have hips been evaluated in the line?
- How do the dogs behave in a home environment?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip dysplasia. Screening is prudent in a large, athletic hound.
Ear infections. Pendant ears require regular cleaning, especially after field work.
Bloat. As a deep-chested large breed, gastric torsion is a possible risk; know the signs.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: Federation Cynologique Internationale · United Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Billy litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Billy puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Billy listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Billy breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.