Basset Fauve De Bretagne Breed Description

An Owner's Basset Fauve De Bretagne Description
Count Bassie is my rabbit dog. He has a nose for finding rabbit holes and chasing them out. A great scent dog, he has what seems like an unlimited supply of energy. Hunting is his favorite thing to do, but he has such a good temperament and a craving for activity that he's okay with just good hard play with the kids.

Count's jealous side makes him obstinate and difficult to handle at times. A firm and consistent hand seems to be the best answer when he gets into one of his moods. That, and inviting him to go hunting will change his outlook. I'd like to say that the Count is a very obedient dog, but I can't. It's not that he hasn't been taught, because he has. It's just that he has such a mind of his own that he decides whether and when he wants to listen. He may follow a certain command once, but not follow the same command the next time.

He loves our children and has been seen to allow the cat to cuddle up next to him. In fact, he seems to take delight in being recognized by all the household pets as the leader and the one to be looked up to. As long as they respect him, he allows them into his space, everyone but the pet rabbit, of course. He offers a low growl at even the mention of the rabbit, much less, the sight of him. It bugs the heck out the Count to think that the kids have, in their room no less, a verminous rabbit.

zThis breed needs to be taught obedience at an early age, (or they may not learn it at all) and reminders must be given as often as necessary, which will be very often. Obedience is not their natural vocation! with a mind of their own, these dogs need an owner who is equally determined in character who can teach kindly and consistently.

As a family pet the BFB is wonderful: excellent with children and with other dogs, and, if properly introduced, will get on with cats and other small pets. Care should be taken with those small creatures which are natural prey for a small-game hunter (rabbits and rats will be problematic).

Towards their human family they are very affectionate; towards life in general they are cheerful and out-going, full of fun and character.

It is important to ensure that any garden to which he has access is securely fenced as he will make a determined effort to follow anything of interest that catches his eye or his nose. Exercise requirements of the adult BFB are considerable. Count Basie was developed to do a full day's work in the field, so at least two long walks each day are the minimum - more would be better.

As a pack worker, he does best if given plenty of companionship. Count Basie is happiest when he's included as a real and valued member of the family and likes to join in as many activities as possible.

Introduction

A typical Basset with a long body and short legs, the Basset Fauve has a coarse and hard coat. They were produced by crossing the Griffon Gauve de Bretagne and short legged hounds from the Vendee district of France. The Vendee is bramble- and brush-filled terrain and Bassets are particularly well-adapted to its conditions. These dogs are tenacious and durable, they both scent and flush game. They are a lively and strong willed breed and are more difficult to obedience train. They do not like confinement and thrive on physical activity. These dogs are good with children and other dogs. They weigh 36 to 40 lbs. and stand 13-15" at the shoulders.

History

French drawings and tapestries of the middle ages and renaissance show a variety of Bassets used by hunters. These scent hounds have a tenacious nature and impressive strength in addition to formidable scenting skills. Each of the different varieties has a slightly different ancestry. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne (BFDB) actual origins are unknown. Some believe this breed descends from the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne crossed with the region's other Bassets; others claim these dogs were a much later (WWI era) cross between local Bassets and German wirehaired Dachshunds. Modern genetic testing will settle the debate eventually!

Description

Low to the ground, the BFDB has the shortest back length, longest legs and shortest ears of any of the Basset breeds. Their wirehaired coat is shorter and finer around the head and ears and ranges in color from a pale wheaten to a deeper coppery red. Medium sized head, with a slightly domed skull, the BFDB's ears end at about the dark (usually black) nose. Eyes are slightly oval, dark (deep hazel to black). Scissors bite is normal, jaws show muscular strength. The bite of a Basset is amongst the strongest in the dog world. Neck is short and muscular. Chest is deep and wide with a prominent sternum. Shoulders slope slightly; forelegs are straight and sturdy; hindlegs are well-muscled. Tail is high set, with a thick base. It tapers to a point and is carried like a sickle according to the breed standard. Feet are rounded, with tight hard pads.

Temperament

Tenacious is the word most often used to describe any of the Bassets and the BFDB is no exception. These dogs stop at nothing once they have a scent, which can make them a challenge to own. Appropriate behavior on a hunt is one thing -- taking off after a squirrel when on a family picnic is something else again. Obedience training is vital for this breed to establish methods of controlling the scent/flight tendencies of the dog. They are loving and devoted by nature and those who bring a Basset Fauve de Bretagne into their lives enjoy them tremendously.

Health and Care

Taller than other Bassets, the BFDB does not suffer the sway-back problems of many of its relatives. The rough coat will require stripping several times a year to look its best but is hardy and resists dirt and brambles. Keep nails short and brush teeth regularly.

Sources

American Kennel Club, Wikipedia, Basset Fauve de Bretagne Club of the UK

Colors

Fawn, gold-wheaten, red-wheaten

Living Area

He feels best outdoors, in a fenced yard where it can get exercise, but he can get used to living in flat near a active familiy if he is assured daily long walks.

Recognized By

UKC, FCI

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