Pont-Audemer Spaniel Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: FCI
About the Pont-Audemer Spaniel
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel (Epagneul Pont-Audemer) is a rare French water spaniel prized for retrieving in marshes and along riverbanks. Distinguished by a curly, oily brown coat and a topknot of curls that gives it a whimsical, almost comical look, it is a keen, tireless gundog well suited to cold, wet conditions. Cheerful and affectionate, it forms close bonds and is sometimes nicknamed the "little clown of the marshes" for its playful nature. Highly biddable and eager to work, it makes a devoted companion for active, sporting households, though its rarity means finding a well-bred puppy can be difficult.
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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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Affectionate, cheerful, and strongly people-oriented
- Talented, water-loving retriever with a biddable temperament
- Generally sociable with children and other dogs
Things to consider
- Very rare; finding a reputable breeder can be difficult
- Curly coat needs regular grooming and attention to the ears
- High activity needs; unsuited to a sedentary lifestyle
History
The Pont-Audemer Spaniel originated in the Normandy region of France in the 19th century, likely blending old French spaniels with imported water dogs such as Irish Water Spaniels or poodle-type retrievers. Numbers fell sharply after both World Wars, and the breed was crossed with the Irish Water Spaniel to preserve it. Today it remains extremely rare and is recognized by the FCI in its gundog group.
Temperament
Gentle, cheerful, and eager to please, the Pont-Audemer Spaniel is affectionate with family and generally sociable. It is an enthusiastic, hardworking retriever that thrives on activity and close human contact. Its biddable nature makes training straightforward with positive methods, though it needs regular exercise to stay content.
Questions to ask a Pont-Audemer Spaniel breeder
- What health screening do the parents have, given the small gene pool?
- How do you maintain genetic diversity in your breeding program?
- Are the puppies exposed to water and retrieving early on?
Health considerations to discuss
Ear infections. Curly-coated, drop ears trap moisture; routine cleaning is important.
Hip dysplasia. Ask for hip evaluations, as with most medium sporting breeds.
Limited gene pool. Rarity raises the importance of careful, health-tested breeding.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: FCI Breed Standards · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Pont-Audemer Spaniel 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 Pont-Audemer Spaniel puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Pont-Audemer Spaniel 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 Pont-Audemer Spaniel 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.