The upbeat Basset Fauve de Bretagne temperament makes this dog a merry and joyful companion.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an ancient French hunting hound. Today it is a beloved pet in many households.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is also sometimes known as the fawn Brittany basset or the tawny Brittany basset.
This breed remains popular in France but is scarce in other parts of the world. However, it is slowly gaining recognition in other countries, including in the United States.
If you think this breed might be the right breed for you, take some time to learn more about Basset Fauve de Bretagne traits.
This article will provide you with a starting point for getting to know this interesting breed.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Behaviors and Temperament Traits
Below you will find some of the most common behaviors for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
However, it is important to keep in mind that all dogs are individuals, so some variability will occur within members of every breed.
Cheerful and Playful
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are happy and energetic little dogs. They are curious and they are always up for an adventure.
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes love to play. Playtime can include fetch, tug, or hide and seek.
Just be sure that playtime takes place within a securely fenced yard because Basset Fauve de Bretagnes can be prone to wanderlust.
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes were bred to be working dogs, so they have a lot of energy and stamina.
These dogs need daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Make sure you can set aside at least 30 to 45 minutes each day for vigorous exercise such as walking, jogging, hiking, playing fetch, or going to a dog park.
Can Be Vocal
Most hounds will “bay” when they catch the scent of a prey animal such as a rabbit.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is no exception to this rule.
“Baying” is a sound between a bark and a howl. Many hound owners actually love the sound of their hounds baying.
However, hound baying is not for everyone.
For example, if you live in an apartment, a Basset Fauve de Bretagne may not be the best candidate for apartment dwelling.
Likewise, if you are a person who needs peace and quiet, this breed may not be the best match for you.
Check out this article for some helpful tips to minimize barking.
Friendly with Children and Animals
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a breed that tends to get along fairly well with children and other animals.
You can improve this tendency by making sure that you socialize your dog from a young age.
If you can, sign your puppy up for a puppy socialization class as soon as you bring him home.
If you adopt your dog as an adult, you can still use positive rewards to help him form positive associations with other people and animals.
Always make sure to supervise your dog when he interacts with children and other animals. If an adult is not available to supervise the interactions, it is best to separate your dog into another room to be on the safe side.
Likewise, it is up to you to supervise the children to make sure that they are gentle and respectful with the dog.
Do not allow children to pull hair, tails, ears, etc.
Inclined to Follow their Nose
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are excellent tracking dogs.
They have powerful noses and they have an urge to follow interesting scents.
For this reason, always make sure that you exercise your Basset Fauve de Bretagne on a leash or inside a securely fenced yard.
If your Basset Fauve de Bretagne catches the whiff of an interesting odor, he might take off after the scent and ignore your commands. This could be very dangerous if your dog wanders too far from home or darts across a busy road.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne History
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne originated in France as a scent hound used to hunt rabbit, hare, fox, roe deer, and wild boar.
This breed descended from a larger French hunting hound called the Grand Fauve de Bretagne in the 1500s. The Grand Fauve de Bretagne subsequently went extinct.
Today the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is still used for hunting and has actually won the French Cup hunting trophy on numerous occasions.
Although it is rare in the United States, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is very popular in France and is starting to gain more attention in other countries as well.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Size and Appearance
The breed standard for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne describes “a small, stocky hound, lively, rapid for its size.”
The average Basset Fauve de Bretagne weight is between 27 and 35 lbs. Males tend to be larger than females.
The average Basset Fauve de Bretagne height is between 12.5 and 15.5 inches.
The most common Basset Fauve de Bretagne colors are fawn, golden wheaten or red brick. A few black hairs are permitted. A white star on the chest is acceptable but not desirable.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Training
It is important to start training your Basset Fauve de Bretagne from a young age.
These dogs are very intelligent so mental stimulation is crucial.
You can keep your Basset Fauve de Bretagne mentally stimulated through training exercises, food puzzles, work to eat toys, and canine sports.
Keep training sessions short, fun, and upbeat.
If possible, sign up for an obedience class with your new dog. Obedience classes are a great way to train and bond with your new canine companion.
Make sure you find a trainer that uses positive reinforcement training methods. Avoid trainers that use harsh, forceful methods or punishment-based training.
Once you and your Basset Fauve de Bretagne have learned basic obedience, you can sign up for more advanced classes such as agility, nosework, and tracking.
Remember that your Basset Fauve de Bretagne was bred to follow his nose. Even once he is trained, he might not heed your commands if he gets distracted by an interesting scent. Never trust your Basset Fauve de Bretagne off leash even if you believe he is 100% reliable. It is always better to be safe rather than sorry.
Helpful Dog Training Resource:
For help with training your Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog, you
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Grooming
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has a coarse, wiry coat that requires minimal upkeep.
Occasional brushing and bathing will keep it healthy and looking its best.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne sheds seasonally, but shedding is not profuse. Seasonal shedding is fairly easy to manage with increased brushing and vacuuming.
Is the Basset Fauve de Bretagne Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, this breed is not considered to be truly hypoallergenic.
However, since its shedding is fairly manageable, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne can sometimes work for people with mild allergies.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Exercise
Exercise is an important component to having a happy and healthy dog.
In fact, exercise is instrumental in reducing nuisance behaviors such as barking, chewing, digging, and trying to escape.
Make sure you can provide the necessary daily exercise before you bring home an active dog like the Basset Fauve de Bretagne.
Staying Healthy: Basset Fauve de Bretagne Health Issues
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a healthy breed. However, like all purebred dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions. If you choose to purchase your Basset Fauve de Bretagne from a breeder, make sure you find a breeder that conducts genetic testing to reduce the prevalence of genetic issues in the breed.
Talk with your veterinarian about the following conditions to make sure you are prepared to cope with these health issues if they arise:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Epilepsy
- Cardiomyopathies (heart disease)
- Skin Allergies
- Thyroid Issues
As with all dogs, your Basset Fauve de Bretagne should visit a licensed veterinarian at least once per year for an annual physical exam and vaccinations.
It is very important to keep your Basset Fauve de Bretagne on flea, tick and heartworm prevention at all times. There are many brands on the market. Talk with your veterinarian about which medications are best for your dog.
Spaying and neutering is encouraged to prevent the overabundance of unwanted animals. Speak with your veterinarian about scheduling this procedure when your dog is the appropriate age.
With excellent care, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne lifespan can reach 16 years!
Note: Don't let the issues above scare you. The best way to approach health problems is to prevent them in the first place. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is a great place to start. Get a copy to keep at home. It will help you prevent the painful health issues that can plague your lovely Basset Fauve de Bretagne pet from expressing his winning personality and maximizing his life
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Rescue and Adoption
If you think a Basset Fauve de Bretagne might be the right breed for you, there are many ways to go about adding one to your family.
One of the most rewarding ways is to adopt a Basset Fauve de Bretagne that is in need of a home.
You can look for a Basset Fauve de Bretagne for adoption by searching on Google and Facebook.
You can also use websites such as Petfinder and Adoptapet to find certain breeds.
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are not common in American animal shelters, but you should still visit your local animal shelter or humane society to let them know what kind of dog you are looking for.
The staff might be able to alert you if they come across a Basset Fauve de Bretagne mix or if they get any breeds that are similar.
Another option is to contact the national breed club and ask for referrals to rescue contacts.
The Benefits of Rescue Dogs
There are many benefits to adopting a rescue dog. Your adoption fee will be substantially less than what you would pay at a breeder.
Rescue dogs sometimes come with some prior training, including housetraining!
You will also have the satisfaction of giving a great home to a dog in need!
Finding a Basset Fauve de Bretagne from a Reputable Breeder
Some people choose to purchase a Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppy from a breeder.
If you choose to go this route, just be sure to do your research to make sure that you acquire your dog from an ethical source.
Beware of Puppy Mills
Never purchase Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppies over the internet or from a pet shop. These puppies often come from unscrupulous breeding operations called puppy mills. Puppies from these sources are often unhealthy.
Contact the national breed club and ask for a list of respected Basset Fauve de Bretagne breeders.
Meet the Breeder in Person
Once you find a promising breeder, set up an appointment to visit the breeder in person.
It is important to the see the environment where your puppy will be raised. A good breeder will welcome your visit. If the breeder refuses to give you access to their premises, this is a red flag. Keep looking for alternatives.
Talk with the breeder about the health and temperament of their breeding dogs. A responsible breeder will ask you lots of questions, too. Good breeders want to make sure that their puppies go to the best possible homes.
Your breeder will probably ask you to sign a contract promising to get your puppy spayed or neutered at the appropriate age. They will probably also require you to return the puppy to their care if things do not work out for any reason. Good breeders provide support throughout their puppies’ lives.
High quality breeders also will not overbreed their dogs, so a puppy might not be available immediately. You may be placed on a waiting list.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne Price
The price of a Basset Fauve de Bretagne varies substantially depending on the breeder. However, this is a fairly rare and expensive breed. Be prepared to spend over $1,000.
Conclusion: Why the Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne temperament makes this breed a cherished pet in many households.
The breed is still fairly rare in the United States, but those who have discovered the charms of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne are quickly hooked on this adorable hound.
Just be sure you can provide the mental and physical stimulation that this breed requires before you welcome one into your family.
Allie has worked in the field of animal welfare for over ten years and as a freelance writer the space for many years. She has had many different kinds of dogs (and cats) throughout her life—all adopted. She currently shares her home with a lovable pit bull mix named Huckleberry.