Poitevin

A rare and dignified breed revered in its area of origin, the Poitevin is a muscular yet sleek scent hound with a rich history. Stemming from the late 17th century, this breed was originally developed to hunt wolves and despite going through several changes over the last few hundred years, still reflects a vast majority of its origin in both look and personality. The Poitevin was used as a pack animal throughout most of its history, making it exceptionally good with other dogs, but due to limited interactions with people and a highly-independent mindset, is usually only accepting its owner or small family group and is otherwise frequently suspicious of both strangers and children. Because of it, along with a high energy drive, an inability to be left alone for long periods, and the need for a large space and considerable exercise, they are not considered good family or apartment pets and are best reserved for their original purpose of hunting. It has been noted throughout their history that they are notoriously difficult to train and many have wound up in shelters because of it, the product of a combination of their own stubbornness and a lack of patience from their owners. But despite their inability to transition into the life of solely companionship, the Poitevin is still a magnificent and highly-skilled breed with an exceptional nose, considerable muscle, and the long-standing history of a breed that echoes success, even with their known status of rarity.