Dr. Sergey Uhanov Last updated: 22nd August 2023Basset Fauve de Bretagne
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Dr. Sergey Uhanov Last updated: 22nd August 2023The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small and stocky hound dog known for its hunting instincts and energetic nature. It is intelligent, adaptable, and eager to please, making for an excellent companion and great with children.
It gets its name from the now-extinct breed Grand Fauve de Bretagne. The word “bas” in French means “low,” and thus “Basset” means “low-set.” Short and sturdy with a thick, wiry coat, floppy ears, and beady eyes, this breed is as happy cuddling with its master as it is frolicking in an open field.
Quick Information
| Other names | Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, Fawn Brittany Basset |
| Coat | Medium long, wiry double coat |
| Color | Fawn, wheaten, or red-wheaten |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Hound |
| Life expectancy | 13-16 years |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 12.5-15.5 inches |
| Weight | 23-39 pounds |
| Litter Size | 5-6 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Affectionate, sociable, adaptable, intelligent, can be stubborn |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate; they tend to bark and howl when excited. |
| Climate compatibility | High; they are best suited for colder climates due to their dense coat but can live in warmer temperatures easily with proper grooming |
| Apartment compatibility | High |
| Do they shed | Very little; they shed seasonally |
| Are they hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | Poor; they can be stubborn and unwilling |
| How much do they cost | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | AKC – American Kennel ClubFCI – International Canine FederationUKC – United Kennel ClubACA – American Canine AssociationSCC – Central Canine SocietyBFdBCA – Basset Fauve de Bretagne Club of AmericaCFB – Club du Fauve de Bretagne DRA – Dog Registry of America |
| Country | France |
History and Origin
French aristocrats originally bred this dog from the now-extinct Grand Fauve de Bretagne as early as the 1500s. Primarily used as a hunting dog to accompany horseback, it gained popularity during the French Revolution as the common folk could now own breeds formerly reserved for the aristocracy. Since most people did not own a horse, it was likely bred to be smaller and smaller, resulting in the current Basset breed. By the 19th century, hunting packs were made exclusively of Bassets.
During WWII, rumors arose of it nearly becoming extinct along with the larger Grand Basset. However, a French expert dispelled this, and the breed quickly gained household popularity all over Europe. The Kennel Club officially registered this breed in 1991 and it is now becoming popular in the US.
Temperament and Personality
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are cheerful, energetic, and enthusiastic dogs. Since they were initially hunting dogs, they love outdoor exercise and need an owner to keep up with them. While generally friendly, they can get protective of their owner and family in front of strangers; however, their small size means that they don’t make good watchdogs, despite their protectiveness. They are excellent as apartment dogs for all kinds of families. Still, you should be careful around cats and smaller animals as their hunting instincts might get triggered.
Despite their small size, they are very wilful and stubborn dogs and might be troublesome to handle for inexperienced owners. They suddenly get distracted by smells and sounds and are known to run off and get lost while chasing a scent. A gentle hand and early training will ensure you have a dog who is playful, dependable, and loyal to the core.
Care
Exercise
Being a high-energy breed, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne requires daily hour-long walks supplemented with shorter walks and regular play sessions. Though they are good apartment dogs, a house with a small fenced yard is ideal for them to play apart from scheduled walks. They are intelligent and must be given mentally stimulating play by their owners. Some good examples are chasing a ball rolling on the floor, hide-and-seek, and teaching them new tricks. They are also popular as show dogs, and you can train them for sports involving agility, rally, and obedience.
Grooming
Their dense, thick, and wiry coat makes them easy to groom. Though their coat repels dirt and matting naturally, it might need to be hand-stripped if the hair is long enough. They do not need regular baths but should be combed through weekly with a fine-toothed comb, followed by a stiff bristle brush.
As with most dogs, you must trim their nails and check their ears periodically. Special care should be taken with oral hygiene, as small dogs are more prone to dental issues. You should brush your dog’s teeth every day under the guidance of your veterinarian.
Health Problems
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a relatively healthy breed of dog, with common ailments being progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cardiomyopathies, epilepsy, skin allergies, and age-related thyroid issues. Responsible breeders ensure the prevention of primary open angle glaucoma in puppies by screening for carriers.
Feeding
Their diet should be prepared, considering a small, high-energy breed. They do well on high-quality dog food, but you should not overfeed them as they can become obese. You should also give them treats in moderation for this reason. Clean, fresh water must be provided for them at all times. A dog’s diet must be appropriate to its age and growth, so consult your veterinarian about food choices before feeding.
Training
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes can be somewhat stubborn when training but respond well to gentleness and patience. Correct training will result in a lovable, fun-loving, and courageous pet.
Socialization: You must start socializing your Basset early to adjust to strangers and other animals properly. Otherwise, it can become mischievous. Being a hunting dog, its need to track a scent may overpower its obedience to you, so you must train your pup to control its instinct from the start.
Leash: You should keep your Basset leashed in an open area, as they will chase after scents and might ignore your calls. Off-leash play should be allowed only in safe, fenced areas.
Interesting Facts
- The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has been part of the Foundational Stock Service since 2015.
- It is still used for hunting foxes, deer, rabbits, and boars.
- Any white or black patches on its coat can reduce its ability to camouflage during hunts.
FAQs
The correct pronunciation of Basset Fauve de Bretagne is “Basset Fauve de BRI-Tonya.”
