Basset Fauve De Bretagne Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne was first bred in France and is related to the larger Grand Fauve de Bretagne, which are now no longer in existence. Originally trained as hunting dogs, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne now enjoys being a popular household pet.

Who are Basset Fauve De Bretagne dogs best for?

The dog breed is best for those who families who not only love exercise, but also have the time to exercise. These little dogs have bundles of energy to expel, so they need at least an hour of physical exercise per day, preferably two.

They make a great family pet as they love kids, but if you have other animals, then the scent hound instinct can at times kick in, and they chase animals smaller than they are, so they generally aren't ideal for those with other pets in the household.

Like other Basset breeds, these dogs are just as happy tramping over fields and hills as they are curled up with their family in front of a warm fire.

How much grooming does a Basset Fauve De Bretagne need?

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a great option for those who don't want the hassle of a high maintenance coat, which can often be costly at the dog groomers. That doesn't need that they do not require grooming, however!

These dogs will shed a lot, so it's important to brush their thick, wiry coat with a fine-toothed comb to release excess dead hair, dirt and other debris at least once a week.

Do Basset Fauve De Bretagne bark much?

Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are not vocal dogs and will seldom bark in general. However, this always depends on the dog's mood, general happiness and genetic tendencies.

Do Basset Fauve De Bretagne bite?

If a dog is happy, healthy and well socialised, being used to both humans and other dogs, biting should not be a concern.

However, as with any breed of dog, there is always a chance that a dog could nip and bite, and this risk increases around young children who often like to rough play with a dog.

For this reason, children should not be left unsupervised with dogs, and you should always get to know the exact temperament of your dog too. Any signs of aggression should be discussed with a vet.

What is the temperament & personality of a Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

Basset Fauve de Bretagnes have a lot of energy and therefore need a lot of exercise. But, just as importantly, these little dogs need mental stimulation too. As hound dogs, they are inquisitive and love having a task to perform, making them excellent at dog sports. Being so intelligent, fun games and exciting toys are a must.

Initially, they can be a little difficult to train due to their lightly stubborn nature, but they respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle praise, which should have them enjoying training in no time!

They are friendly dogs, although they can be slightly wary of strangers. Once they know they aren't a threat, however, they will treat them with love and affection. If they do sense a threat, they will do everything they can to protect their family.

They are great with children too, but they aren't always the best with other pets, particularly smaller animals in the household. This is because they have an instinct as scent dogs to chase, and chase they do! If you have cats or rabbits, in particular, a Basset Fauve de Bretagne is probably not going to be the best dog for you.

What is the weight & size of a Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

A Basset Fauve de Bretagne usually weighs between 16kg and 18kg and measures between 32 and 38 cm in height.

How much training does a Basset Fauve De Bretagne need?

As scent hounds originally, they were used to catch rabbits. And, with a nose so close to the ground, their sense of smell can completely overpower the brain if the dog is not trained from a very early age.

Socialisation from as young as possible is a must. This will get them used to people and other dogs, which can be invaluable as the dog grows up, giving them an excellent foundation for the rest of their lives.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

While most Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are healthy dogs and able to enjoy a long, sickness-free life, they do have an increased chance of developing certain health conditions due to their breed and genetics.

Health issues can include:

• progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• cardiomyopathy

• age-related thyroid issues

• skin allergies

Responsible dog ownership means that it's your task to ensure your dog receives regular checkups with a vet to diagnose any of these conditions as soon as they start developing.

What is the lifespan of a Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

The average life expectancy of a dog of this kind is anywhere between 10 - 14 years of age. A dog's age depends on a variety of factors, including any health concerns, lifestyle and living conditions.

How much should you feed a Basset Fauve De Bretagne?

A Basset Fauve de Bretagne's diet should consist of food formulated especially for active breeds so they won't gain weight.

In order to burn off this food, they will require an ample amount of exercise, or they run the risk of the dreaded weight gain. They should have a regular feeding routine with no food left out during the day or night, which will lead to overeating. While a reward now and again is perfectly fine, try to limit treats for the same reason.

To raise a healthy dog, it is important to recognise how their dietary requirements will change from when they are puppies to adult dogs, progressing into senior years.

To give the dog the very best chance of a long, healthy and happy life, you should consult your vet for expert recommendations regarding your Basset Fauve de Bretagne's diet. This is because there is a lot of variation from dog to dog, including energy levels, general health and weight, so there's not a one-size-fits-all diet programme.

What is the price of a Basset Fauve De Bretagne in Australia?

The price of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne will vary, but expect to pay in the region of upwards of $1500 for a pup. Of course, it's always best if you adopt and don't shop, so why not try your local animal shelter first? Rescue Basset Fauve de Bretagne make excellent and loving pets too!

If you have decided you want to approach a breed club, always source a responsible breeder and never purchase a dog if you think it has come from a puppy mill.