What You Should Know Before Getting a Billy Dog
Thinking about adding a Billy dog to your family? They’re not the most common breed, but they’re loyal, energetic, and full of spirit — especially if you love the outdoors. That said, they’re not a good fit for every household. Here’s what I’ve learned about living with high-energy, scent-driven dogs like the Billy, and what you should know before bringing one home.
First, Billys Are Born Hunters
The Billy is a French scent hound originally bred for hunting. That means they’ve got a serious nose, sharp instincts, and stamina for days. If you’re not into long walks, hikes, or letting your dog follow a trail (on-leash, of course), a Billy may not be the right match.
Because of their strong prey drive, small pets like rabbits or cats could be at risk — even with training. You’ll want to supervise them closely and always have a secure yard or leash when outside.
They Need to Move — A Lot
Billys don’t just “like” exercise — they need it. These are dogs that thrive on action. If you don’t give them enough physical and mental stimulation, they can get destructive fast. We’ve seen dogs like this chew through furniture or dig up gardens purely out of boredom.
A daily routine with long walks, runs, or play sessions is non-negotiable. Bonus points if you can let them explore scent games or tracking activities — it taps into what they were bred to do and tires them out in the best way.
Socialization Is a Must
Billys are affectionate with their people but can be reserved or wary around strangers. Early socialization really helps. Expose them to different people, environments, and other animals while they’re young. It makes a big difference in preventing fear-based behaviors or even aggression down the line.
Training Takes Patience (and Treats)
While Billys are smart, they’ve got independent streaks. Training isn’t always smooth sailing — especially if they catch a whiff of something more interesting than your commands. Stick with positive reinforcement: treats, praise, and consistency go a long way.
If you’re new to dog training or short on patience, this might not be the easiest breed to start with. But with the right approach, they can learn fast.
Grooming: Easy but Consistent
Billys have short, dense coats that shed moderately year-round. A quick brush once or twice a week keeps things under control and helps with bonding, too.
They don’t need frequent baths, but when you do bathe them, use a gentle dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Also, keep an eye on their ears — like many floppy-eared dogs, Billys can be prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and teeth brushing should be part of your routine.
Health and Vet Care
Billys are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they have their risks. Hip dysplasia, allergies, and ear infections are the most common concerns. Regular checkups can catch issues early, and a good diet plus exercise goes a long way in keeping them fit.
Not Ideal for Apartment Life
Billys are vocal — sometimes very vocal. They were bred to bark on the hunt, and that trait sticks around. If you live in an apartment or somewhere with noise restrictions, the barking could be a dealbreaker.
They Hate Being Alone
These dogs are pack animals at heart. Being left alone for long periods can lead to separation anxiety — and that often shows up as chewing, barking, or digging. If your schedule keeps you out of the house most of the day, a Billy might struggle.
Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and maybe even a dog walker or pet sitter can help. Some Billys do better with a canine buddy around the house, too.
Bottom Line
Billys are loyal, energetic, and full of personality — but they’re not low-maintenance. If you’re active, patient, and home often enough to give them the attention they need, they can be amazing companions. If you’re more of a couch-and-chill type or have a busy schedule, this breed could be a tough fit.
Before bringing one home, really think about whether your lifestyle matches their needs. But if it does, you’ll get a devoted dog who’ll happily follow you to the ends of the earth — especially if there’s a scent trail involved.