Hound breed from Haut-Poitou, France
The Billy is a large French scent hound, standing 60â70 cm tall and weighing 25â33 kg, with a short white coat marked with orange or lemon. Its temperament is described as energetic, intelligent, courageous, gentle, and independent. The breed has a high energy level (5/5) and moderate trainability (3/5). Grooming needs are low (2/5), shedding is moderate (3/5). It is generally suitable with children (4/5) and other dogs (4/5), but less suited to apartment living (2/5). Lifespan is estimated at 10â12 years. Recognition status varies by registry.
The Billy was developed in the 19th century in France by Gaston Hublot du Rivault at ChĂąteau de Billy. He crossed the Montaimboeuf, CĂ©ris, and Larye breeds, all of which are now extinct. The breed was nearly lost after World War II but was revived by du Rivault's son. Its origins are in the Haut-Poitou region of France. The Billy is classified in the Hound group and is recognized by the FCI in Group 6, though recognition status varies by other registries. The breed was bred for pack hunting, valued for its speed and stamina.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Supervise every dogâchild interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Billy-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
The Billy is a large breed: estimated adult height 60â70 cm, weight 25â33 kg for both sexes. Lifespan is estimated at 10â12 years. These figures are modelled estimates.
The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, courageous, gentle, and independent. Individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
The Billy has a high energy level (5/5), so it likely requires substantial daily exercise. As a scent hound bred for pack hunting, it benefits from activities that allow it to use its nose and stamina.
Grooming needs are low (2/5) due to its short coat. Shedding is moderate (3/5). Regular brushing and occasional baths should suffice.
The breed is rated 4/5 for child suitability and 4/5 for dog compatibility, suggesting it generally gets along well with children and other dogs when properly socialized. However, individual experiences may differ.
Apartment suitability is rated 2/5, indicating it is not ideal for small spaces. A home with a yard is likely more appropriate given its size and energy needs.
The Billy originates from the Haut-Poitou region of France. It was developed in the 19th century by crossing now-extinct breeds (Montaimboeuf, CĂ©ris, Larye) at ChĂąteau de Billy.
Image source: No approved image attached. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.