Basset Fauve de Bretagne
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For more information about the Basset Fauve de Bretagne Click hereCommonly known as Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne (BFdB) is a smallish breed of French scent hounds. These rough-coated, stocky, and short-legged hunting dogs are energetic, sociable, and quick on their feet. They make for a great companion, too.
Learn more about the BFdB - its appearance, history, health, temperament, and much more.
About and Brief History of Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a purebred dog breed that belongs to the well-known French scent hound family. The breed's origins can be traced back to the early 1800s in the historic French kingdom of Brittany, the smaller of the two hound breeds developed at the time in this area. It's potentially a cross between the Brittany Basset - an avid hunter - and Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, a larger French scent-hound breed that's now extinct.
The Bretons carried out deliberate cross-breeding to create scent hounds that specialize in hunting a variety of game, from wild boar and hare to stag. However, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne was designed as a hunting dog for commoners who would normally hunt on foot.
The commoners needed a hound that's not only smart, quick, and fierce enough to hunt and tackle small to medium-sized game but also slow enough for hunters to keep up with them. As stocky, relatively fast, and intelligent hunting dogs, Basset Fauve de Bretagne's fitted the description down to the tee.
Interestingly, these pets were once a bit larger and appeared more like the terriers than they presently do. The Second World War dealt a major blow to the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, with some records claiming that the dog breed almost became extinct during the 6-year military conflict.
In fact, there are rumors that the breed had to be reconstructed by crossing remaining look-alikes with classic wirehaired Dachshunds. Note, however, that many canine associations, including the French Kernel Club, vehemently deny these claims.
Appearance
Of all scent-hound dog breeds that hail from France, the BFdB is one of the smallest. Even still, they are medium-sized hunting dogs sporting a characteristic wiry, rough coat; short, stocky limbs, and a long body. You could say it has a quintessential basset body type.
An adult stands at around 12 - 15 inches (32 - 38 cm) tall and weighs roughly 36 to 40 pounds (or 16-18 kg). You'll find smaller or larger dogs of this breed, though. But, in either case, these pets are generally fast and energetic for their size.
The dog breed's coat is harsh to the touch, dense, and coarse. Most puppies are born with black in their coats, which usually disappears before they become adults. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is available in at least four different coat colors: red-wheaten, gold-wheaten, black, or fawn.
The fawn-colored coat normally ranges from red to silver to apricot fawn. They may also feature bits of whites, usually restricted to the top of the head and chest. The undercoat is slightly softer to the touch than the sinewy topcoat.
They usually have medium-sized, black-colored ears that hang slightly low. Their eyes are dark brown with an inquisitive or expressive look. As for the nose, it's either dark brown or black in color with medium-open nostrils.
Temperament and Demeanor
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are cheerful pets that make for an amazing companion in and outside of the home. They boast an inquisitive and lively temperament with an energetic and explorative approach to life.
Don't forget that the BFdB is a scent hound through and through, so these historically hunting dogs should be in their best element when tracking a trail or playing outside. In fact, as soon as their incredible noses pick up a scent, they will most likely disregard commands and choose to follow the trail. They'll give chase at slight sound, movement, or scent.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has a sociable and loving personality, which is why it often gets along well with kids and other pets. However, you need to introduce it to other pets, especially cats, at a tender age.
They are generally friendly with strangers but will definitely alert you with a slight bark when someone is at the door. Expect them to be protective of their family and tough to anyone looking to harm their loved ones.
As for training, the Fawn Colored Brittany Basset can be a little stubborn and prone to mischief. Nevertheless, they respond well to consistent and gentle training, so owners must be patient with them. All up, this is one clever and neat-looking hound full of vigor, energy, and resolve.
Health and Care
As hunting dogs, Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are ordinarily healthy pets. They live an average of 12-13 years but can push it up to 15 years or longer with an active lifestyle and correct diet. Unsurprisingly, they are not susceptible to weight issues unless they don't eat healthily and get proper exercise.
Being one of the most clever dog breeds, they need mental stimulation for robust health and well-being. They pack plenty of vigor and energy, so your house must have an expansive playground area. Lengthy, frequent walks can do the trick, as well.
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