Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Group 4: Hounds
Height: 32 – 38 cm
Energy Level: High
Original Function: Hunting
Lifespan: 10 – 14 yrs
Recommended for: Responsible people & families.
Note: Not many in Australia.
About This Breed
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is the smaller of the two hounds that come from the Brittany area of France in the 1800’s. They were achieved by crossing the larger version, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, and low-legged hounds from the Vendee area and were originally used for small-game hunting. The earlier versions of the breed probably looked more like terriers than what we know today.
They are intelligent dogs but hounds through and through, they must be trained to recall as puppies or they will completely ignore you and come back when it suits them.
Cheerful little dogs who can have minds of their own. They are friendly, brave and very active. This breed gets along well with children and other household pets. Not really guard dogs, they will however announce strangers at the door. They are unhappy if kept confined for too long and love to have busy, full lives and to be involved with all family matters.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Short-legged, rough-coated hound of moderate length.
Temperament: Lively, friendly and amenable.
Characteristics: Courage, resistance to the elements, possessing good nose. Very nimble in movement.
Colour: Red-wheaten or fawn. White markings on chest or neck discouraged.
Coat: Very harsh, dense and flat. Never long or woolly.
Grooming: A brush once a week is all they need, and a bath when needed.
Exercise: They need moderate but regular exercise to stay in shape.
Health: Some health issues include: progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, cardiomyopathy, skin allergies, thyroid issues