The Billy is a rare French scent hound that originated in the Poitou region of western France. It was developed in the 19th century by Gaston Hublot de Rivault, who combined several old French hound breeds to create a tall, elegant, and powerful dog specialized in hunting deer, wild boar, and other large game.

The Billy is known for its speed, endurance, and deep, carrying voice. While bred primarily for pack hunting, the Billy is also loyal and gentle with its family. Its short, white coat with possible lemon or orange markings gives it a noble and refined appearance. Although rare outside of France, the Billy remains highly valued among traditional hunters for its determination and strength.


25 Questions about the Billy

  • What is the origin of the Billy?

  • How did the Billy develop in the Poitou region of France?

  • Who created the Billy as a distinct breed?

  • Which older French hounds contributed to the Billy’s development?

  • What type of hunting was the Billy originally bred for?

  • What does a typical Billy look like?

  • How tall is the average Billy?

  • What is the average weight range of the Billy?

  • How long does a Billy usually live?

  • What coat type is typical for the Billy?

  • What coat colors are common in the Billy?

  • What temperament is typical for the Billy?

  • Is the Billy good with children?

  • How does the Billy behave with other dogs in a pack?

  • How much daily exercise does a Billy need?

  • What grooming care does the Billy require?

  • Is the Billy easy to train?

  • What health issues are common in the Billy?

  • Does the Billy bark or howl frequently?

  • Is the Billy recognized by major kennel clubs?

  • How rare is the Billy outside France?

  • What makes the Billy different from other French scent hounds?

  • Why do hunters value the Billy for big game hunting?

  • How intelligent is the Billy compared to other hound breeds?

  • What role does the Billy play in modern hunting traditions?