What are Shutter Dogs? (and Why You Need Some for Your French Property)

Known as arrêts de volet or bergères de volet in French, shutter dogs are metal devices that firmly secure and protect open shutters. Usually made from iron or brass, they come in two parts: a bracket secured to the wall and an arm with a hook or hole. To hold the shutter open, the arm swings outward and is positioned over the edge of the shutter, keeping it firmly in place.

The term ‘shutter dogs’ is thought to reference the loyalty of a guard dog, holding its position and protecting its home.

Whilst entirely functional, these pieces of hardware were, in times gone by, also rather decorative features, giving homeowners the opportunity to add an ornate flourish to the exterior façade of their home.

Although they were not necessarily designed by named artists, older traditional styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries can be surprisingly varied. Some designs were mass-produced and can be found across much of France, whilst others were cast locally and are more regional in style, making certain examples considerably more unusual and sought-after.

Perhaps the most common design, although there is arguably nothing ‘common’ about them, is the shepherdess head, or tête de bergère. These miniature busts depict a lady, wearing a bonnet or elaborate headdress, often beautifully detailed with flowers.

Other designs are a little harder to come by and can include tête de berger, depicting a male shepherd in a flat cap, alongside lions, dogs, shells, dragons and the traditional ornate fleur-de-lis.

Shutter dogs remain popular collector’s items, and you’ll likely come across them at brocantes (antiques markets) as well as in gardening and interior design shops.

Whatever the design, these little artistic flourishes are bound to make you smile. So, as you wander the meandering streets of France, do pay attention to the shutters and see which ones you can spot. You might be surprised by just how much character can be found in something designed simply to hold a shutter open.