Basset Fauve de Bretagne: temperament, size, care and health

About the Basset Fauve de Bretagne

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a short-legged, compact hound with a harsh, wiry coat in shades of fawn, from gold-wheaten to red-wheaten. The name means fawn basset of Brittany. The head is long and wedge-shaped, with medium ears set at eye level that are folded and fine, a dark eye and a slight brow. The dog stands about twelve to fifteen inches tall, and the body is longer than tall, with strong, straight legs.

The breed was developed in Brittany in northwestern France to hunt hare, fox and rabbit in tangled cover, using its nose and a strong voice. The coat protects against thorns, and the low frame lets the dog move at a pace a hunter on foot can follow. It is a rare breed that has found a following among people who like a compact, friendly hound with less coat than the Griffon Vendéen types.

Temperament and family life

The Basset Fauve is cheerful, outgoing and affectionate. It enjoys company, including that of children and strangers, and tends to be adaptable and eager to join in family activities. It can be playful well into adulthood. A decent watchdog thanks to its bay, it is not aggressive.

It is generally good with children and other dogs, being a pack hound. The prey drive is strong, and a small animal that runs will be chased, though a hound raised with a cat can learn to live with it. It is vocal, particularly if bored or left alone for long hours, and the voice carries. The breed is not a good choice for people who spend all day away from home.

Exercise and training

This is an energetic breed that needs more activity than its size suggests. A good daily walk of an hour or so, with time to sniff, plus play and the occasional run in a fenced area, keeps it content. It enjoys tracking, scent games and rally. Without exercise it can become noisy and destructive.

A Basset Fauve will follow its nose, so a leash or a fence is essential. Recall is not reliable in open country. Training works best with short, varied sessions, rewards and good humor. The dog is smart and fairly willing, but it can be stubborn when a scent is in the air. House training may be slow. Start socialization early.

Grooming and shedding

The harsh coat is low-maintenance compared with other rough-coated hounds. Brush once or twice a week with a firm brush or comb to remove loose hair and dirt, and bathe only when needed. Hand stripping once or twice a year keeps the coat tidy, though many pet owners skip it. Shedding is light.

The folded ears should be checked and cleaned regularly. After a day in brush, look the dog over for ticks, burrs and scratches. Trim the nails as needed and brush teeth.

Health

The Basset Fauve is generally a healthy, hardy breed, though the population outside France is small. Possible concerns are ear infections, intervertebral disc disease in the long back, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and some eye conditions. Keeping a healthy weight and avoiding high jumps protects the back. Responsible breeders usually screen hips, knees and eyes. This overview of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is general information; for any particular dog, ask a veterinarian.

History

The breed is generally traced to Brittany, descended from the larger Grand Fauve de Bretagne, a hound that is now extinct, and bred as a short-legged hunting hound. The American Kennel Club added it to its Foundation Stock Service in 2015 and recognized it as a full breed in 2026.

Is the Basset Fauve de Bretagne right for you?

The Basset Fauve suits an active family or individual who wants a sturdy small hound with personality and can provide exercise and a secure yard. It is a poor choice for those wanting a quiet or easily recalled dog or who leave the dog alone most of the day.

For a rougher coat and a Vendée background, compare the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. The Beagle is a smooth-coated alternative, and the Basset Hound is slower and heavier.