The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a medium-sized dog with a rough coat. It has a typical basset build with short legs and stands slightly higher off the ground, with a height at the withers of 32–38 cm. When fully grown, it weighs around 16–18 kg. Its coat can be light brown, golden-wheat or red in colour, sometimes with a white chest.
In this article, you’ll discover everything about the character and care of this breed. Learn more about its friendly nature, the breed’s history, its physical characteristics, the care it requires, and much more. Whether you’re already the owner of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne or simply interested in this unique breed, this article provides all the information you need. Read on and get to know this charming dog.
- Size: Height at withers: Males: 32 to 38 cm, Females: 30 to 36 cm
- Weight: Males: 15 to 20 kg, Females: 14 to 18 kg
- Temperament:
- Cheerful and friendly
- Intelligent and eager to learn
- Energetic and playful
- Brave and determined
- Can be headstrong
- Good with children and other pets, provided well socialised
- Coat:
- Coarse, hard coat
- Fauve (reddish-brown) with white markings
- Sheds little
- Regular brushing is required
- Origin: France
- FCI breed group: FCI Group 6: Scent Hounds
- Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
History of the breed
It is a French dog breed that originated in the Brittany region. The breed bears many similarities to the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, but the Basset variant was bred after the Second World War by crossing the Dachshund with the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne belongs to the ‘dachshund’ group and has a unique build with short legs and a long body. Fortunately, the breed has not died out and is loved as a companion dog.
| Breed |
Origin |
Characteristics |
| Basset Fauve de Bretagne |
France, Brittany |
Short legs, long body |
| Fauve de Bretagne Griffon |
France, Brittany |
Hard, wiry coat |
Basset Fauve de Bretagne character and temperament
It is known for its active, headstrong and cheerful nature. This medium-sized dog is loyal to its owner and has an average life expectancy of 10 to 14 years. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is tolerant and gets on well with other people and animals. However, it is important to socialise and train him properly, as he has a hunting instinct and can sometimes be headstrong. A good bond with his owner and plenty of exercise are essential for a happy dog.
This dog needs an active lifestyle to burn off its energy, so daily exercise is important. Long walks and playtime in a safe environment are ideal. In addition, mental stimulation, such as training and games, is also very important. This helps it to stay healthy both physically and mentally.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne gets on well with other pets and children, but it is important to socialise him properly from a young age. Although he is tolerant, his hunting instinct may occasionally surface, particularly around small pets. It is therefore important to teach him how to behave in the presence of other animals.
In terms of character, he is independent and headstrong, which makes him a charming companion. He can be a bit stubborn at times, but with the right training and positive reinforcement, he will listen well to his owner. It is important to be consistent and patient when training this dog.
| Characteristics |
Description |
| Active |
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has lots of energy and needs daily exercise to be happy. |
| Loyal |
This dog is loyal to its owner and forms strong bonds with its family. |
| Tolerant |
It gets on well with other people and animals. |
| Hunting instinct |
Due to its hunting instinct, it is important to socialise and train the Basset Fauve de Bretagne properly. |
Basset Fauve de Bretagne physical characteristics
He is a medium-sized dog with unique physical characteristics. Below you will find more information about his height and weight, head and body, and coat and colour.
Height and weight
With an average height at the withers of 32–38 cm and a weight of approximately 16–18 kg, he is a solidly built dog. Although not particularly large, it has a strong and muscular build that supports its agility and strength.
Head and body
The head of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a distinctive feature of its appearance. With friendly, oval eyes and a lovely muzzle, its facial structure radiates friendliness and liveliness. Its body has the typical Basset build, with a long, stocky body and short legs. This gives it its unique and charming appearance.
Coat and colour
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s coat is short and rough, meaning it requires little care. Its coat colour can vary, with light brown, golden-wheat and red being the most common colours. Sometimes it has a white chest. According to the breed standard, other reddish colour variations are also permitted, resulting in some variation in the coat colour of these beautiful dogs.
Coat care and hygiene
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s coat requires little care. As the coat is short and rough, regular brushing is not necessary. It is, however, important to keep the coat clean by occasionally wiping it down with a damp cloth. It is also important to brush their teeth regularly and trim their nails. In addition, it is advisable to take the dog to the veterinarian regularly for a check-up and to detect any health issues in good time.
| Coat care |
Hygiene |
| - No regular brushing required
- Keep clean with a damp cloth |
- Brush teeth
- Trim nails |
| - Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups |
Socialisation: Behaviour with other dogs
It is essential to socialise the Basset Fauve de Bretagne well from a young age. This dog has a naturally friendly temperament and gets on well with other dogs. Originally bred as a hunting dog to work in small packs, it is important to keep an eye on him when he comes into contact with smaller pets, due to his hunting instinct. It is wise to train him in this regard and teach him how to behave in the presence of other animals.
Training
Training the Basset Fauve de Bretagne requires consistency and clear rules. Although he is naturally a sweet dog, he can sometimes be stubborn and have a mind of his own. It is important to be firm and to train and reward the dog in a positive manner. Building a good bond with the dog is essential for successful training. It is also important to give the Basset Fauve de Bretagne plenty of attention and exercise, as it is an active breed.
Living conditions
It is suitable for both a house with a garden and a flat, as long as it gets enough exercise and stimulation. Although the breed is active, it also enjoys rest and relaxation. It is important to give the dog enough space indoors and to take it out for walks regularly. A fenced-in garden is ideal for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, so that it can run around and explore safely.
Health: common ailments and diseases
They are generally a healthy breed with few hereditary health problems. However, there are some conditions to which the breed may be prone.
-
Skin infections: Basset Fauve de Bretagnes can be prone to skin infections, such as skin inflammations and allergic reactions. Regular coat care and good hygiene can help prevent these conditions.
-
Elbow dysplasia: This is a condition in which the bones around the elbows do not develop properly. It can cause pain and lameness. It is important to have the dog checked regularly by a veterinarian to detect any joint problems at an early stage.
To maintain the Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s good health, it is important to ensure a balanced diet, sufficient exercise and regular care. Always consult a veterinarian for specific advice on the health of your Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
Life expectancy
The average life expectancy of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne is 10 to 14 years. With the right care, nutrition and lifestyle, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne can lead a healthy and happy life. It is important to take the dog to the veterinarian regularly for check-ups and to detect any health problems in good time.
Price and budget
The price of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne can vary depending on the breeder, pedigree and quality of the puppy. On average, a Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppy costs between 1,000 and 1,500 euros. In addition to the purchase price, there are other costs to take into account, such as nutrition, vet visits, care and any training or courses. It is important to plan a budget for the care and upkeep of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
| Cost item |
Average price |
| Purchase price |
Between €1,000 and €1,500 |
| Nutrition |
Depending on the brand and the dog’s nutritional needs |
| Vet visits |
Consultations, vaccinations, treatments |
| Care |
Shampoo, brushes, combs, grooming products |
| Training and courses |
Depending on the training and courses chosen |
When purchasing a Basset Fauve de Bretagne, it is wise to take these costs into account and draw up a budget. This way, you can ensure you have the financial means to provide your dog with the best care and support. It is worth investing in the health and well-being of your Basset Fauve de Bretagne so that he can lead a happy and healthy life.
Diet and nutritional requirements
A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne. The breed has average nutritional requirements, depending on age, weight, activity level and health status. It is important to provide high-quality dog food that meets the dog’s nutritional needs. It is also important to feed the dog at regular times and to avoid overfeeding. It is advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian or nutritionist for the best diet plan for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
View our options for an ideal diet for your four-legged friend
here.
Physical activity and exercise
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an active breed that needs daily exercise and stimulation. It is important to take the dog out regularly, play with it and ensure it gets plenty of exercise. Long walks, tracking exercises and games are ideal for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
In addition to physical activity, the dog also needs mental stimulation, such as training and puzzle games. Training the dog in a positive and consistent manner, using rewards and positive reinforcement, can help to promote its intelligence and obedience.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne name ideas
Choosing the perfect name for your Basset Fauve de Bretagne can be a fun but challenging task. Here are some name ideas for inspiration:
- Max
- Bella
- Rocky
- Luna
- Charlie
- Daisy
- Milo
- Rosie
- Cooper
- Lucy
It’s fun to choose a name that suits your dog’s personality and character. Take your time to think about which name best suits your Basset Fauve de Bretagne, and enjoy the process of finding the perfect name!
Famous Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Although the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is not one of the best-known dog breeds, it has nevertheless gained some recognition in the dog world. A couple of other famous Basset Fauve de Bretagnes include Nana, from the famous Disney film “Peter Pan”, and the dog named Gas, from the popular French comic strip “Boule & Bill”. These well-known characters have represented the Basset Fauve de Bretagne in a fun and recognisable way.
If you’re a fan of this film or comic series, it might be interesting to know that this charming dog breed also exists in real life. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a loving and active breed that can bring a lot of joy into its owners’ lives.
Although the Basset Fauve de Bretagne may not have the same level of global recognition as some other dog breeds, it has carved out its own unique place in the hearts of enthusiasts all over the world.
FAQ
How much exercise does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need?
Daily long walks, tracking sessions and playtime are essential for this energetic dog.
What kind of coat care does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need?
Regular brushing is necessary to keep the rough, coarse coat clean and tangle-free. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and nail trimming are also important.
Are Basset Fauve de Bretagnes good with children and other pets?
Yes, provided they are well socialised from a young age. They are friendly, but their hunting instinct can sometimes get the better of them.
What health problems are common in the Basset Fauve de Bretagne?
They can be prone to skin infections and elbow dysplasia. Regular vet check-ups help to detect these problems early on.
What is the average life expectancy of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne?
Between 10 and 14 years, with the right care, nutrition and exercise.
