not FCI-recognised (Spanish type) · Spain (Navarre)
Pachón Navarro
A Spanish pointer with a split nose and a gentle heart: sensitive, hard-working, devoted and even-tempered. The Pachón Navarro is an old Spanish gun dog, recognisable by its “double” nose; calm and affectionate at home, in the field it becomes a tireless pointing hunter of birds.
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The Pachón Navarro (Navarrese Pointer) isn't merely another gun dog; it is a legendary ancestor of many modern pointers that has preserved its unique identity through the centuries. Its appearance might seem peculiar, and its working qualities archaic to some, but therein lies its true value. This dog is the embodiment of efficiency, endurance, and an incredible bond with humans. Learn more on Tvaryny.
Unique anatomy: the secret of the double nose
The most recognisable feature that distinguishes the Pachón Navarro from hundreds of other breeds is the so-called "double nose" (bifid nose). This is an anatomical peculiarity where the nose leather is divided by a deep vertical groove, creating the impression of two separate nostrils living their own lives.
Aesthetics or function? For a long time, it was believed that such a nose improved the dog's olfactory abilities ("two noses are better than one"). Modern studies do not unequivocally confirm that this significantly enhances scent, yet hunters maintain that the Pachón Navarro's nose is phenomenal.
Genetic nature. This trait is hereditary, but not all representatives of the breed are born with a clearly defined split. The standard permits both variations, although the traditional "Double Nose" type is valued as a historical distinctive feature.
Health. It is important not to confuse this feature with a cleft palate (wolf's mouth). In a healthy Pachón Navarro, only the nose leather is divided, which in no way affects breathing or feeding.
Hunting qualities and working style
The Pachón Navarro is an "old school" hunter. If you are used to the rapid gallop of Pointers or Setters, the work of the Pachón Navarro will seem meditative to you. It moves at a characteristic trot, thoroughly inspecting the territory. This dog works in close contact with the hunter, rarely straying further than 50–100 metres. Such a hunting style is ideal for complex terrain where it is important not to lose sight of the dog.
Its main weapon is intelligence. The Pachón Navarro does not run in vain. It analyses the wind, the terrain, and the behaviour of the game. Its point is firm and confident, but without unnecessary theatricality. It simply indicates the prey with its entire appearance. Furthermore, it is an excellent retriever. Thanks to its "soft mouth", it brings back the shot bird undamaged.
Comparison with other Spanish breeds
Spain has gifted the world with magnificent hunting dogs. To better understand the Pachón Navarro's place in this hierarchy, it is worth mentioning its closest "relatives".
This breed is often confused with the Perdiguero de Burgos. Both dogs are ancient Spanish pointers, but the Burgos is usually more massive, has an even more pronounced dewlap and longer ears. Their working style is similar, but the Navarrese is considered slightly more versatile in terms of landscape.
Another interesting example is the Spanish Hound. While the Pachón Navarro works with air scent and points, the Sabueso is a classic tracker that pursues game with a voice (baying). They can complement each other on a complex hunt, but in domestic life, they are dogs with completely different temperaments.
Interesting facts about the breed
The history of this breed is full of amazing moments that make it even more attractive to cynologists.
Royal favourite. The Kings of Navarre, Charles II and Charles III, mentioned expenses for the upkeep of these dogs in their diaries, and the sums were significant - this testifies to the high status of the breed.
Intellectual hunter. It is said that an experienced Pachón Navarro knows how to "deceive" game, approaching from an unexpected side and cutting off escape routes, as if calculating the strategy in advance.
Genetic parallels. Although the Pachón Navarro looks unique, its rare colours sometimes evoke associations with other unique phenotypes. Just as the Panda German Shepherd has a non-standard coat colour for its breed due to a mutation, rare colour combinations that have survived from ancient times are found among Pachón Navarro dogs.
Origins of the breed and its revival
The roots of the Pachón Navarro stretch back to the deep Middle Ages. It is believed that this breed is a direct descendant of the Old Spanish Pointer, which existed on the Iberian Peninsula as early as the 12th century. The Pachón Navarro served as a faithful companion to the kings and nobility of the Kingdom of Navarre, assisting in the hunt for feathered game, hares, and even larger beasts.
Historical documents and paintings from that era often depict dogs phenotypically similar to the modern Pachón Navarro: sturdy, stocky, and with a characteristic head. They became the genetic foundation for many European breeds, including the famous English Pointer. However, with the advent of firearms and a shift in hunting styles, these slow but thorough dogs began to lose popularity, giving way to faster breeds.
By the mid-20th century, the breed was on the brink of total extinction. Enthusiasts and Spanish cynologists, realising the threat of losing a national treasure, launched a recovery programme ("Recuperación"). In the 1970s, colossal work was undertaken to find surviving specimens in remote villages of Navarre and the Basque Country. Thanks to these efforts, the Pachón Navarro was saved, though it remains a rare breed today.
Breed standard
This is a medium to large-sized dog of the braccoid type. Its build speaks of strength and endurance rather than speed. The body fits into a rectangle; it is massive, with a broad chest and strong bone structure. This is the "workhorse" among pointers, created for hours of combing through difficult scrubland.
Breed standard · 6
Characteristic
Standard Description
Weight
Males: 27–35 kg; Females: 22–30 kg
Height at withers
Males: 55–64 cm; Females: 53–60 cm
Head
Large, square, with a broad skull. Muzzle is short and straight. Lips are thick and slightly pendulous.
Eyes
Large, brown or amber, with an expression of calm and intelligence.
Coat
Short, harsh to the touch, dense. Skin is thick and loose.
Colour
Varied: white with orange, brown, liver, black; tricolour; solid colour.
The skin of the Pachón Navarro is quite elastic and loose, forming a dewlap on the neck. This is not a fault but a protective mechanism: in thick, prickly thickets (matorral), such skin is less likely to be injured, allowing the dog to work where other breeds refuse to go.
Temperament and behaviour in the family
Outside of hunting, the Pachón Navarro turns into a model of calm and composure. This is not the sort of dog that will wreck the flat from excess energy if you miss one walk. They are very human-oriented, bonding with all family members, but usually choosing one "leader" whom they obey implicitly.
It is interesting to compare their vocalisation with other primitive breeds. While the New Guinea Singing Dog is known for its unique trills, the Pachón Navarro is more of a silent philosopher. It barks only for a reason, for example, guarding territory, which makes it a decent alarm dog.
They are patient with children and allow many liberties. However, given the size of the dog, interaction with very small children should take place under adult supervision. They rarely conflict with other dogs; dominant behaviour is not typical for them if socialisation has been carried out correctly.
Training and upbringing
This breed requires a special approach. Harsh drills and mechanical methods of influence do not work here. The Pachón Navarro is a dog with a sense of dignity. If you put too much pressure on it, it will simply "shut down" and stop responding.
The key to success is positive reinforcement and partnership. Pachóns mature late. Full physical and mental maturity comes closer to 3 years of age. Therefore, you should not demand perfect field work from a young dog. They have an innate hunting instinct; often puppies as young as 4–5 months begin to point at butterflies or pigeons. The owner's task is only to gently correct this instinct, teaching quartering and obedience at a distance.
Pros and cons of the breed
Pros
Cons
Balanced psyche: A very stable dog, not prone to hysteria or aggression.
Drooling: Due to the structure of the lips (flews), the dog may slobber, espcially after eating or drinking.
Versatility: Works on feather, fur, and tracks blood trails well.
Stubbornness: They have their own opinion; training requires patience.
Contact: Always keeps the owner in sight, not prone to running away.
Rarity: Finding a puppy outside of Spain is extremely difficult.
Robust health: An aboriginal breed with strong immunity.
Need for exercise: This is a working dog; it needs activity, otherwise it will gain weight.
Simple care: The short coat does not require grooming.
Care and hygiene features
The Pachón Navarro is undemanding in everyday life, but there are nuances a dedicated owner must pay attention to. Its short, harsh coat requires brushing with a rubber glove once a week. This helps to remove dead hair and massage the skin.
Ears: This is the breed's weak spot. The hanging, heavy ears are poorly ventilated. After every hunt or walk in the woods, they need to be inspected for ticks, plant seeds, and dirt. Regular cleaning with special lotions will prevent otitis.
Skin folds: Special attention should be paid to the folds on the muzzle and neck. In damp climates, bacteria can multiply there, so it is importnt to keep these areas dry and clean.
Nutrition
Nutrition: how to feed a working dog
Health and risks
Health and genetic diseases
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) · 4
Is the Pachón Navarro suitable for a flat? Theoretically, yes, provided there is sufficient physical exercise. At home, they are inactive and take up little space (mostly sleeping on the sofa). But without 2–3 hours of active walking, the dog will start to get bored and gain weight.
Do they moult heavily?
Moulting is seasonal (spring-autumn) and average in intensity. However, the harsh hair can work its way into carpets and furniture upholstery, so regular cleaning will be neccessary.
Where can I buy a puppy?
This is the most difficult question. The main population is concentrated in Spain. To acquire a quality puppy, you will have to contact Spanish breeders (for example, from the Circulo de Cazadores y Criadores de Pachón Navarro club) and join a waiting list.
Are they aggressive towards people?
No, aggression towards humans is considered a vice. These are friendly dogs, although somewhat reserved with strangers.
Video about the breed
FAQ
Why does the Pachón Navarro have a split nose?
The “double” nose is a historical breed trait once thought to signal a finer sense of smell; today it is known to be only a cosmetic feature, not a scenting advantage.
Is the breed suitable for a family?
Yes — at home a gentle, devoted and even-tempered dog, good with children and a decent watchdog; but it needs exercise and scent work.
Can a Pachón be kept with birds?
No — it is a gun dog with a strong drive for birds; living with pet birds is very risky.
