Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Get to Know Basset Fauve de Bretagnes

• Ancient Hunting Roots: The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dates back to the 19th century but is believed to descend from much older French hunting dogs, making it one of the oldest known short-legged scent hounds in France.
• Distinctive Wiry Coat: Unlike many other Basset breeds, the Fauve de Bretagne has a rough, wiry coat that provides protection against thorns and harsh underbrush during hunts, helping it navigate dense terrain.
• Exceptional Nose for Scent: This breed is renowned for its powerful sense of smell, making it an excellent tracker for small game like rabbits and hares. Hunters prized it for its persistence and precision.
• Energetic Despite Short Legs: Though it has the classic short legs of a Basset, the Fauve de Bretagne is surprisingly energetic and agile, capable of covering rugged hunting grounds with stamina and speed.
• Friendly & Social Personality: Known for being affectionate and sociable, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne makes a great family companion. It’s playful, outgoing, and generally gets along well with children and other pets.

Breed History

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a charming and historic French hunting breed that traces its roots back several centuries to the Brittany region in northwest France. Originally bred as a short-legged scent hound, this breed was developed to track small game such as rabbits and hares through dense underbrush and rugged terrain. Known for its distinctive rough, wiry coat and striking reddish-tan color (fauve means “fawn” in French), the Basset Fauve de Bretagne combines stamina, agility, and a keen sense of smell. Though it was once a popular hunting companion, today the breed is also cherished as a lively and affectionate family pet, valued for its friendly temperament and adaptable nature.

Personality and Behaviour

• Intelligent but Stubborn: Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are intelligent and quick learners, but they can also be quite independent and stubborn. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Early socialization helps them develop into confident and well-mannered dogs.
• Energetic & Curious: Despite their short legs, these dogs are surprisingly energetic and curious. They have a natural hunting instinct, which means they love to explore and follow scents. Providing them with regular mental and physical stimulation is key to keeping them happy and well-behaved.
• Friendly & Affectionate: The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is known for its warm and loving nature. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being involved in daily activities. Their affectionate demeanor makes them excellent companions for children and other pets alike.

Care

• Exercise: The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an energetic breed that requires moderate daily exercise. They enjoy walks, playtime, and scent-based games that tap into their natural hunting instincts. Regular activity helps keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated, preventing boredom-related behaviors.
• Training: Training a Basset Fauve de Bretagne calls for patience and consistency. They are intelligent but can be stubborn and independent, so positive reinforcement and early socialization are essential. Short, engaging sessions work best to hold their attention and build good manners.
• Grooming: Thanks to their wiry coat, Basset Fauve de Bretagnes have relatively low grooming needs. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hairs and prevents matting. Their floppy ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid infections, and occasional baths keep their coat clean and healthy.