The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog is a short-legged, purebred dog from France. It is a hunting breed of dog of the scent hound type. It is also known as the Fawn Brittany Basset.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog breed was originated from France, originally from Brittany (a historical kingdom of France). It was developed as a hunting dog from the larger Grand Fauve de Dretagne (a breed that is now extinct).
There was a rumor that the Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog breed was also close to extinction after the Second World War. And the breed was recreated using the remaining examples of the breed and crossing in Breat Blue Heron and standard wirehaired Dachshunds.
However, the French club denies this, and says that Basset Fauve numbers were never so low. The middle-sized breed, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, also still exists, but it is certainly rarer than the Basset Fauve.
The breed in the UK is mainly seen as a show dog and family pet, finally coming off the Kennel Club’s rare breed register in 2007. It can also be found in other parts of Europe where it is used to scent trail and also as a family pet. They are loving, happy, outgoing dogs and are good with children, but it must be remembered that they are scenthounds and do retain their love of the hunt, so they may not suit every family.[1]
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Dog Characteristics
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog is a beautiful and small sized hound. The breed is built along the same lines as the Basset Hound, but lighter all through and longer in the leg.
They are wire-coated, the coat is very harsh to the touch, dense, red-wheaten or fawn. They have coarse, dense fur which may require stripping. Although, their coat repels dirt and does not mat easily, they still require weekly combing and brushing.
The hair on the ears is shorter, finer and darker than that on the coat. The ears just reach the end of the nose rather than trailling on the ground and should be pleated.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs should have dark eyes and nose and ideally no crook on the front legs.
Average body height of the mature dogs is between 13 and 15 inches at the withers. And their average live body weight is between 16 and 18 kg.
Temperament
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are great for almost all types of people. They pack a lot of energy in such a small and sturdy frame. They love to be outdoors, as they were originally meant to be hunters along their human counterparts.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are highly intelligent, and mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for them.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs may be a little stubborn when it comes to training. But they generally respond well to gentle and consistent owners who know what they are doing.
They are generally friendly with everyone, but will let you know if a stranger approaches the door. They are not meant to be watchdogs, but they are tough and will protect their families no matter what.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are also adorable, loyal and gentle. They are able to get along with everyone in the household, but might chase after smaller pets.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog is between 11 and 14 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog is a smaller sized breed. So, their diet should be formulated for a small to medium sized breed with average or high exercise needs. You can consult with your vet for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog. These dogs have high energy, and it’s unlikely they will be prone to weight gain unless they don’t get adequate exercise.
Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour or hour long walk per day with few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in.
Check the ears of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog for debris and pests daily, and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim their nails before they are too long. And brush their teeth on a regular basis.
Health
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions. Their common health problems include epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, cardiomyopathy, skin allergies, age-related thyroid issues etc. Always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Basset Fauve de Bretagne |
| Other Names | Fawn Brittany Basset |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Height | Between 13 and 15 inches at the withers |
| Weight | Between 16 and 18 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Fawn |
| Lifespan | Between 11 and 14 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | France |
