The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a compact, wiry-coated hound with a characteristic fawn-colored coat and a lively, intelligent expression.

Small, typically 12.5 to 15.5 inches at the shoulder.

Dense, harsh, and wiry, never woolly or curly.

Fawn, ranging from golden wheaten to red wheaten.

Moderately long, with a slightly domed skull and a defined stop.

Dark, with a lively and intelligent expression.

Set low, reaching at least to the tip of the nose, ending in a point and covered with finer, darker hair than the body.

Carried like a sickle, moderately long, and tapering to a point.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is known for its cheerful, outgoing, and determined personality, making it both a dedicated hunter and a loving companion.

Forms strong bonds with their family and enjoys being involved in household activities.

Possesses a lively and active nature, requiring regular exercise.

Despite their small size, they are bold and tenacious.

Quick learners, though they can have an independent streak.

Generally good with people and other dogs, especially when properly socialized.

May bark or bay, especially when excited or tracking a scent.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is best suited for active individuals or families who appreciate a spirited, independent, and affectionate companion.

Intelligent and eager to please (with consistent training).

Needs moderate daily exercise.

The ideal owner for a Basset Fauve de Bretagne is someone who can provide consistent training, regular exercise, and appreciate their unique blend of independence and affection. A secure environment is essential due to their scent-driven nature.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne requires regular grooming to maintain its wiry coat, a balanced diet, and a secure living environment.

Hand-stripping the coat several times a year is necessary to maintain its texture and remove dead hair; regular brushing helps to prevent mats.

Only bathe when necessary, as frequent bathing can soften the coat.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Adaptable to various living situations, but a securely fenced yard is ideal due to their hunting instincts.

Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections, as their dropped ears can trap moisture.

Trim nails regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Training Basset Fauve de Bretagnes requires patience and positive reinforcement due to their independent nature. They need moderate daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Basset Fauves are intelligent but can be stubborn and easily distracted by scents. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and consistent training from a young age are crucial. Keep training sessions short, engaging, and varied to maintain their interest.

These hounds need moderate daily exercise to satisfy their hunting instincts and prevent boredom. This can include brisk walks, jogging, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and scent-based games. They enjoy exploring and following their noses, so providing opportunities for controlled scent work is beneficial.

Establish clear rules and boundaries from the start.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate them.

Be mindful of their strong scent drive; keep them on a leash or in a secure area during walks.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Their independent nature requires understanding and a patient approach.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A malformation of the hip joint that can cause pain and lameness.

Prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears.

A neurological disorder that may cause recurrent seizures.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, originating from Brittany, France, traces its ancestry back to the larger Fauve de Bretagne, a now-extinct breed used for hunting wolves and wild boar. In the 19th century, these larger hounds were crossed with smaller Basset breeds, including possibly the Basset Griffon Vendéen, to create a shorter, more agile hunter better suited for tracking smaller game like rabbits and hares through dense undergrowth. The breed was officially recognized by the French Kennel Club in the late 19th century. While they became popular in France, they remained relatively rare outside their homeland. World War II significantly impacted the breed's numbers, but dedicated breeders worked diligently to restore the Basset Fauve de Bretagne to its former glory. Today, it is recognized by various kennel clubs worldwide, including the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC, FSS).

Yes, when properly socialized, they are generally good with children, known for their playful and affectionate nature.

No, they are relatively low-shedding. However, their wiry coat requires regular hand-stripping to remove dead hair.

They need moderate daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore scents.

They can be moderately challenging to train due to their independent streak. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key.

Yes, they can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met, but a house with a securely fenced yard is ideal.

Hand-stripping is a grooming technique that involves removing dead hair from a wiry coat by hand or with a stripping tool, maintaining the coat's texture.

They are generally healthy but can be prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, and ear infections.

Check with Basset Fauve de Bretagne breed-specific rescues or reputable breeders. The AKC website also offers resources for finding breeders.

They generally get along well with other dogs, especially if they are socialized from a young age.

They can be vocal, with a tendency to bark or bay, especially when excited or following a scent.