Basset Fauve de Bretagne: The Lively and Tenacious Hound

Breed Summary

Country of Origin: France

AKC Breed Popularity:

AKC Classification: Foundation Stock Service

UKC Classification: Scent hound

Exercise Requirements: 20-40 minutes/day

Physical traits: Small, Well-balanced, Compact

Coat:

Length: Short
Characteristics: Rough
Colors: Fawn, Wheaten, Red

Overall Grooming Needs: Low

Personality traits/Temperament: Smart, Cheerful, Determined

Height: Female: 12-14 inches; Male: 14-16 inches

Weight: Female: 27-35 lbs.; Male: 27-35 lbs.

Energy Level: Average

Tendency to Drool: Low

Tendency to Snore: Low

Tendency to Bark: High

Tendency to Dig: Low

Social/Attention Needs: High

Life Expectancy: 12+ years

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, a charming and tenacious hound breed, originates from the region of Brittany in France. With their distinctive appearance and lively personality, these medium-sized dogs have won the hearts of many dog enthusiasts.

Origin

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has a long history dating back to the 16th century in France. They were bred as scent hounds for hunting small game, particularly in the rugged terrains of Brittany. The breed's name translates to "low-height Fawn of Brittany," reflecting their distinctive physical attributes and regional origins. Basset Fauve de Bretagne was primarily developed by crossing larger French hounds with smaller breeds to create a compact yet sturdy hunting companion.

Appearance

Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a medium-sized dog with a solid and muscular build. They have a unique appearance characterized by their low-to-the-ground stature, long droopy ears, and expressive eyes. Their short, dense coat comes in a fawn or wheaten color with varying shades. The breed's overall appearance exudes a sense of strength, agility, and determination.

Temperament

Basset Fauve de Bretagne is known for its lively, friendly, and affectionate temperament. They are social dogs that enjoy being a part of the family and are generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. While they are gentle and loving, they also possess a strong hunting instinct and may show a strong sense of independence and determination in their pursuits.

Trainability

Basset Fauve de Bretagne can be somewhat independent and stubborn at times, making training a challenge for novice dog owners. They have a strong sense of scent and may easily become distracted when outdoors. However, with patient and consistent training methods that incorporate positive reinforcement, they can learn and follow commands. Early socialization and consistent training from a young age are crucial to shaping a well-behaved and well-adjusted Basset Fauve de Bretagne.

Health Outlook

Overall, Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a healthy breed with few major health concerns. However, like all dog breeds, they may be prone to certain conditions. These may include ear infections due to their droopy ears and obesity if not provided with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet, exercise, and preventive care are essential to maintaining their overall well-being.

Nutritional Requirements

To support the Basset Fauve de Bretagne's energy levels and overall health, a balanced and high-quality diet is crucial. The recommended diet should include a proper balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients. Portion control is important to prevent overeating and obesity, as these dogs have a tendency to gain weight. Consultation with a veterinarian can help determine the specific dietary requirements based on the dog's age, size, and activity level.

Exercise Requirement

Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an active breed that requires regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for exploring different environments are important to meet their exercise needs. Engaging in activities such as scent work or obedience training can help channel their natural instincts and mental energy.

Grooming

Basset Fauve de Bretagne has a short and dense coat that is relatively easy to maintain. Regular brushing, at least once or twice a week, helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat in good condition. Their droopy ears require regular cleaning to prevent infections. Additionally, routine dental care, nail trims, and overall hygiene practices should be part of their grooming routine.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Lively, friendly, and affectionate nature.
Excellent hunting instincts and scenting abilities.
Adaptable to various living environments.
Low grooming requirements.
Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Cons:

Can be stubborn and independent, requiring patient training methods.
Prone to ear infections due to their droopy ears.
May exhibit a strong hunting instinct and require supervision in outdoor environments.
May become overweight if not provided with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Space Requirements

While Basset Fauve de Bretagne can adapt to apartment living, they benefit from having access to a securely fenced yard where they can explore and expend their energy. A yard provides them with opportunities to engage in scent work and run freely, contributing to their overall well-being.

Suitability for the Elderly

Basset Fauve de Bretagne may not be the most suitable breed for the elderly due to their energetic nature and exercise requirements. However, an active and fit senior who can provide regular exercise and mental stimulation may be able to enjoy the companionship of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne with proper support and commitment.

Suitability for Kids

Basset Fauve de Bretagne is generally good with children, particularly when raised with them from a young age. They have a friendly and affectionate nature, making them suitable playmates for older, respectful children. Supervision during interactions is important to ensure the safety of both the dog and the child.

Cost

The cost of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppy can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, location, pedigree, and quality. On average, expect to invest between $1500 to $2500 for a well-bred puppy. Ongoing expenses, including high-quality dog food, routine veterinary care, grooming, training, and accessories, should also be considered when calculating the overall cost of owning a Basset Fauve de Bretagne.

What Should the Owner Be Like

An ideal owner for a Basset Fauve de Bretagne should be patient, firm, and dedicated. They should understand the breed's independent nature and possess the willingness to provide consistent training and mental stimulation. Owners should be active and willing to meet the exercise needs of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, ensuring they receive regular physical and mental stimulation. Additionally, they should have a secure and fenced yard to allow the dog to explore safely. The owner should be knowledgeable about the breed's hunting instincts and be prepared to provide proper supervision and control during outdoor activities.

Fun Facts

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an excellent scent hound and has been used to track game such as rabbits and hares.
Despite their small size, Basset Fauve de Bretagnes have a strong and distinctive voice, often baying and barking with enthusiasm when on the trail.

Conclusion

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a lively and tenacious hound that brings joy and companionship to their owners. With their unique appearance, spirited personality, and hunting instincts, they offer a delightful and active addition to any dog-loving family. While their independent nature may present training challenges, their loyalty, affection, and adaptability make them a rewarding companion for those who understand their needs. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne can thrive and bring years of happiness and adventure to their devoted owners.

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