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Basset Fauve de Bretagne - MAIN HUB

Meet the Basset Fauve de Bretagne! A cheerful French scenthound with a wiry coat and a big heart. Perfect for active owners who love an adventure.

BREED GROUP

Hound Dogs

Country of origin

France

BREED SIZE

Medium

BREED HEIGHT

13 -

16 IN

33 -

41 cm

BREED WEIGHT

27 -

35 LB

12 -

16 KG

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small, energetic scenthound originating from France. Known for their rough, fawn-colored coat and lively personality, they were bred for hunting. They have a lifespan of 13-16 years. These dogs are affectionate, cheerful, and make great companions for active families. They require regular exercise to satisfy their hunting instincts and keep them mentally stimulated. Their wiry coat needs weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping. While they are friendly and sociable, their strong prey drive means they should be kept on a leash or in a securely fenced area when outdoors. They have potential predispositions to intervertebral disc disease and angular limb deformities due to their body structure.
american kennel club (AKC) recognition

No

Breed was recognized in 0.

International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1954.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?

Are Basset Fauve de Bretagnes good family dogs?

Excellent

9 out of 10

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an excellent family dog, known for its affectionate, cheerful, and social personality. They are particularly well-suited for active households that can provide the regular exercise and mental stimulation needed to satisfy their energetic nature. Although friendly, their strong prey drive requires they be kept in a secure area or on a leash when outdoors.

Excellent

9 out of 10

They are generally excellent with children, being sturdy, playful, and patient. They enjoy the energy of kids and make great playmates. As always, interactions between dogs and young children should be supervised to ensure play remains safe and respectful.

Good

6 out of 10

They can be a good choice for first-time owners who are active and willing to commit to training. They are intelligent and generally eager to please, though they can have a stubborn hound streak. Consistent, positive reinforcement training works best.

Good

6 out of 10

They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met. They are relatively small but are energetic hounds. Without adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation, they can become bored and vocal, which may not suit close neighbors.

Highly Recommended

8 out of 10

While a yard is not strictly required if they receive enough daily walks, a securely fenced yard is highly recommended. It provides a safe space for them to sniff, explore, and burn off energy, but the fence must be secure as they will follow scents.

Fair

3 out of 10

They can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods, but they are social pack hounds that prefer company. Prolonged isolation can lead to boredom, separation anxiety, and destructive behaviors like excessive barking or chewing.

Average

5 out of 10

They have a strong prey drive bred for hunting. While they can learn to live peacefully with indoor cats if socialized from a young age, they may still be tempted to chase them. Careful introduction and supervision are necessary.

Alert

4 out of 10

Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are not inherently aggressive. They are typically very friendly, sociable, and outgoing with both people and other dogs. They may bark to alert you of strangers but are generally welcoming.

Energetic

7 out of 10

Yes, they are energetic and active dogs. Despite their shorter legs, they have excellent stamina and were bred to hunt all day. They require regular daily exercise to keep them physically fit and mentally satisfied.

~45 min a day

5 out of 10

They need about 45 to 60 minutes of exercise daily. This should include brisk walks, interactive play, and opportunities to use their nose, such as scent games or tracking exercises, which provide excellent mental stimulation.

Average

5 out of 10

They tolerate moderate heat reasonably well, but like all dogs, they should not be over-exercised in extreme temperatures. Provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and limit strenuous activity to the cooler parts of the day.

Average

5 out of 10

They tolerate moderate heat reasonably well, but like all dogs, they should not be over-exercised in extreme temperatures. Provide plenty of shade and fresh water, and limit strenuous activity to the cooler parts of the day.

Rarely Restricted

2 out of 10

They are rarely subject to breed bans or restrictions. Their small to medium size and friendly reputation make them generally acceptable in most rental properties, provided their exercise and barking are managed.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?


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Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian Researcher Dog breed specialist
Verified
"Basset Fauve de Bretagnes are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years. Veterinarians recommend monitoring their ears, as drop ears can trap moisture and are prone to infections. Regular ear cleaning is essential. Their wiry coat requires regular grooming. Maintaining a healthy weight is important to avoid undue stress on their long backs and short legs."

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