Guide to Basset Fauve de Bretagne Dogs
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1. Introduction
Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are an old-world, unique breed. Very popular in the French countryside, they were used to hunt in the forest with their unique voice and spectacular abilities. These dogs are very affectionate, full of life and happiness. Sturdy, strong, and alert, they can give you the best of their hunting talents in your neighborhood, where they love to go walking and are a wonderful sight in the homes of owners with vast grassy backyards. Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the adorable Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs! In this guide, you will read the following highlighted sections: Basset Fauve de Bretagne History – Where do these dogs come from? Are they rare? What is their breed popularity among the canine world? Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s Physical Attributes – How do they look? Basset Fauve de Bretagne Behavior and Temperament – Are these dogs agile and timid? Are they very friendly with other animals and children? Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s Ideal Living Environment – Can these dogs adjust to an apartment lifestyle? What are their exercise requirements? Basset Fauve de Bretagne’s grooming and health behavior. Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppies. We strongly recommend that you read these highlighted sections thoroughly before you make up your mind to adopt these dogs. You will get an insight into the real personality of these dogs and understand them for who they are. A family pet, a companion, or a perfect hunting partner, Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are truly a sweet and playful breed.
1.1. Background and History of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne Breed
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT Except where stated, most of the websites agree upon the main points in Basset Fauve de Bretagne history and development, but this must be correct as it is verbatim what the UK mini booklet says. In France, a small rough-coated basset-type hound has been known since the sixteenth century in the region of Brittany, along the coast, where it was used to hunt on very tough scrublands. In these dense environments, hunters quickly realized that the best dogs were light and fast, with short legs to keep them under the dense cover. The sparse population and lack of railways led to the dogs developing in relative isolation and therefore, true to most other breeds developed in this way, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a “breed of a breed.” INFLUENCES ON THE BREED This being the case, they are very close to the original podencos and cirnecos. A small hunting pack was developed from this breed, which then developed as did most Spaniel-type dogs into the modern hunting dog that we know today. These old-type hounds are thought to be Démodé en Size Hounds and are thought to have been an influence on today’s Basset Fauve de Bretagne. At the end of the 19th and the start of the 20th century, selective breeding of these dogs occurred to develop the modern-day breed. In France today, all basset hound breeds fall under the “Le Grand Basset” status with the “Le Petit Basset” after its name, which reflects a little of its history. The French Club des Chiens Courants has the breed in Group 6, #1 with the “petit” after its name. An independent breed since 1924, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne was recognized by the UK Kennel Club in 1983.
2. Breed Traits and Characteristics
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The Basset Fauve de Bretagne breed has a small, lengthy frame comparable to those of other bassets. With their wrinkled faces, oversized feet, and floppy ears, these huge personalities are impossible to miss. They are also easily mistaken for the Basset Hound, although the Basset Fauve de Bretagne possesses its own pair of distinguishing characteristics. Each dog, including the offshoot bloodlines, brings its own special combination of personality and beauty. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne breed is clever, loving, companionable, adventurous, caring, amiable, and occasionally wicked. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppy has been raised over the years to be a loving and faithful house companion and mini-hound. This pet is a hard-charging pursuer both within and out of the hunt field. The Basset Fauve can be used to locate and catch unwelcome critters with skill if needed. These dogs were also trained to operate as search and rescue survivors, as well as to find absent kids at college. They are extremely pliable to adapt to various activities, particularly when food rewards are used.
2.1. Physical Appearance
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has its largest counterpart in France, the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne. There is a further, larger variety of Basset Fauve de Bretagne in Sweden showing some Grandidier blood. In Sweden and France, we are used to the dogs being larger, just as the Mâtinot Hounds of France and the Ardettot Hounds of France and Italy also have some substantially larger dogs and bitches. To the British, this does not matter, for it is not size we are attempting to breed to; it is essential hunting characteristics of 'le Basset Fauve de Bretagne'. An average-sized example of the present-day Basset Fauve de Bretagne should weigh around 35 lbs.
Fauve is the French word for fawn, and the breed's color is well described in its title. 'Basset' means low, and this dog is low set, but should not be built as low as, for example, the British Basset Hound. The breed should be of proportionate size, just so its small size would enable it to make its way through the dense forests of Brittany and be pulled out of small holes in the hedges and rocks of the rocky, ill-enclosed fields where it is used. The coat adds to the breed's rugged – some may say ancient/aloof – appearance. At its best, the coat is rough where the hair is short, having in it wilder, longer hair. The texture is crisp, 'brillo pad' like. In no case should the hair be fine and soft, for the dog is required to defy some rough weather and to ultimately dry off without needing any special attention. Moulting does not attract much attention to the breed, for short wire coat hairs tend to become lost in the undercoat.
2.2. Temperament and Behavior
The Fauve is a friendly little dog with a lively disposition and is loyal and affectionate with family. Very sociable, he will make friends with most dogs and always loves to meet and greet other people. He is a good watchdog and protector, and is generally good with children, especially when raised with them. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a scent hound and, as such, he is very keen of the nose, and it can be hard to get him to listen as his nose will overtake any command you give him. They require a firm pack leader to take control, especially if they are to live with other dogs. The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is an active dog with loads of stamina, and they require regular walks to keep them sane. Even though they are a small dog, they have a large heart and love to run and jump about. They are an outdoor dog and need plenty of time outside to run off some steam. They are very busy dogs and are into everything. Early socialization and basic obedience training are beneficial for the Basset Fauve de Bretagne as it helps to keep control of their busy nature and teaches them some manners. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. When training, socialization should be carried out from an early age, both when they are vaccinated and when they are old enough to go out into the big world.
3. Care and Maintenance
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A comprehensive career and maintenance program is essential in owning a Basset Fauve de Bretagne. Regular grooming helps to maintain the overall health of the dog. Fauves have been bred to be small, agile hounds in order to hunt on a daily basis, and this trait is still present. A regular feeding routine can vary from dog to dog, but the same selection of food can be given every day. The right amount depends on the size and age of the dog.
3.1. Grooming and Hygiene
There are many options for keeping the Fauve healthy. Live vaccination is currently one of those. This raises the dog's immune system and provides immunity for 12 months. Regular flea and worm treatment are necessary too, with the screening for lungworm becoming more popular. A new health and care routine is also very important; this could be anything from who is going to care for your dog when you go on holiday to who is going to care for your dog when you are no longer able to. Basset Fauves should be allowed at least 30 minutes of intense exercise twice a day. They will also have additional exercise through play. Regular grooming is essential to bring out the best in the Fauve de Bretagne. Provided the correct grooming routine is followed, keeping their coat free of knots and maintaining the new adult coat at its highest standards need not be impossible. Basset Fauve de Bretagne are owned by all types of people for a multitude of reasons. Although these people may have different resources, they all possess the necessary qualities in caring for a Basset Fauve. It does involve planning, expenditure, time, and a genuine care and love for the Fauve.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs have been described as "easy keepers." They don’t require much grooming at all. But if you neglect grooming, their coat can become matted, which is unpleasant for the dog and can cause hygiene problems. Hygiene can be a problem for a dog with matted hair. Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs, like other dogs, need ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental hygiene. The most important part of grooming is establishing a routine and sticking to it. Choose the grooming schedule that works for you and your dog. Even if you only have time to do one part of the grooming routine at a time, it is important to do it regularly. A long, unkempt Basset Fauve de Bretagne coat might deter from his adorable looks, but your dog’s hygiene is something you can’t afford to skimp on. Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs have a very short, coarse coat that requires no more than a weekly brush to look its best. Regular grooming will help rid your dog’s coat of dirt and loose hairs. Bald patches can appear within your dog’s coat if they are not groomed at least once a week. It’s best to brush your Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog while they are lying down on a table, as the soft brush is designed to reach your dog’s skin. Feet, neck, and ears are areas where a lot of dirt can gather. A quick brush should do the trick. Make your grooming experience at ease by rewarding your dog with treats. In fact, it’s best to take out the treats right before your grooming begins. That way, your dog will have an idea that treats are around the corner and may look forward to the experience in general. Wetting your dog further helps you assess the areas that will need your extra care. Sporting dogs that love to hunt through thick brush, Basset Fauve de Bretagne can pick up a lot of dirt, dust, twigs, and ticks in the bargain. A good grooming routine will prevent these elements from involving severe health issues. The overall well-being of your Basset Fauve de Bretagne dog is determined by the health and hygiene of your dog. A dog with good hygiene is less likely to have problems relating to parasites, dry skin, and eye and ear infections.
3.2. Exercise and Activity Needs
Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are incredibly energetic and have more power and muscle than their size suggests. This is a lively, bubbly breed that thrives on human company and can exhibit some mild signs of separation anxiety if left alone for long periods on a regular basis. On the whole, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a friendly, sociable hound that seldom shows any signs of shyness and can mix with many other dogs if well-socialized from a young age. Most dogs have a high prey drive, and as such, care should be taken when they are around smaller animals that may inadvertently end up being chased across a field before being 'dispatched'.
As all healthy, happy dogs are, these are active, lively dogs by nature, and as such, they need to be given the right amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation for them to be truly happy, well-rounded dogs. Pets are happier and healthier when they are mentally stimulated, which is especially important as dogs get older.
In short, your Basset Fauve de Bretagne's exercise needs are going to be quite strenuous if your aim is to keep them healthy and happy. These high-energy, lively dogs need at least an hour of exercise every day. Because they are so easy to train, a Fauve de Bretagne will enjoy a daily mental workout too. Walk your dog in a fenced area if possible, as their nose can lead them absentmindedly into danger. Ideal activities are off-leash playing, such as fetch in a secure area and agility training if your puppy is old enough. It is a good plan to start training for both recall and sit early. On top of this, keep them mentally and physically engaged with puzzle toys, particularly around their meal times. They need physical as well as mental engagement, or they can become bored and destructive. Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppies grow well if all their needs are met, and the right level of activity is a very important aspect of their requirements.
4. Hypoallergenic Qualities
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is effectively a hypoallergenic dog breed. A hypoallergenic dog is one that causes little, if any, allergic reactions in allergy sufferers. These dogs are less likely to cause allergies for allergic owners because they produce fewer allergens than other breeds. Of course, the term hypoallergenic is a bit misleading to many individuals who are allergic to dogs. While it does mean less likely to cause an allergic reaction in a stuffy nose, watery eyes, or sneezing, there is no such thing as a completely allergen-free dog.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is unique compared to many other breeds, as most do not shed. Unfortunately, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is not one of these. Many owners and breeders claim this dog to be hypoallergenic; however, they are only minimally so. They still require regular grooming, although the absence of heavy shedding will mean that allergens are kept at a reasonable level. While the breed will work for most mild allergy sufferers, those with heavy allergies may still be affected. So, if you have never owned a Basset Fauve de Bretagne before and increased allergens is a genuine concern for you or a member of your family, consult an allergist or veterinarian before purchasing a dog of this breed.
4.1. Understanding Allergies and Hypoallergenic Breeds
Allergies are borne of the immune system’s sensitivity to allergens. When allergens enter the human body through respiration, ingestion, or physical contact, an immune response is triggered. In turn, individuals react with symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, hives, and watery eyes. Consequent ailments can include asthma, eczema, and anaphylaxis. The breed of dog is often an important consideration for individuals with allergies, but the issue is complex. Dogs produce three primary allergens: dander, saliva, and urine. Though these allergens are present to a varying degree among all breeds, individual reactions vary. Some allergic individuals may suffer reactions more acutely, for instance, to the saliva of a certain breed of dog than from their skin.
Dogs are conventionally marketed as being either hypoallergenic or not, based solely upon their breed. The science behind this is a little more nuanced. The consensus is that highly hypoallergenic dog breeds produce very low amounts of allergens, therefore resulting in a very low allergen load on an individual. However, it is expected that all individuals with a dog allergy will still suffer from their symptoms if they come into contact with a dog of any type. Rather, hypoallergenic dogs are of most pertinence when an allergen-prone individual wishes to cohabitate with an animal. In this situation, several management strategies exist to mitigate symptoms including regular and thorough cleaning of a dog and individual, the use of antihistamines, and possibly even immunotherapy. Early preemptive exposure to pets, especially cats, during childhood has been linked to a reduced incidence of developing animal-related allergies, asthma, and eczema in later life.
5. Basset Fauve de Bretagne as Family Pets
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When the Brittany Basset Fauve is appropriately trained and socialized, along with being friendly and affectionate with children, they are also intelligent and rarely seem to mind all the activity that goes on in a household. They are also patient and very forgiving of toddlers when they get a little too boisterous. A Basset Fauve de Bretagne gets on well with other dogs, especially if they have grown up with them. Because of their gentle, friendly nature, the Brittany Basset Fauve also gets on with other pets. A well-trained, socialized Basset Fauve de Bretagne is likely a good fit for a family that already has one or more young children. However, because it can be difficult to find well-bred, well-socialized puppies, it’s generally wiser to wait until your children are at least 8-10 years old before you commit to having a dog. Once they are older, of course, a Brittany Basset Fauve de Bretagne can be a wonderful family pet. Basset Fauves adapt well to living with children in general, and their playfulness, loyalty, and love of outdoor activities can make them excellent companions for kids and teens. Adults planning to adopt a Fauve are wise to choose one with a calm, gentle temperament who has been socialized from an early age. Every new pet owner should start training that puppy the day they bring it home. Rest assured that the consistent, active house-training that comes with a puppy will most definitely benefit and enhance the throughout life of your sweet Basset Fauve de Bretagne as a responsible adult pet. This breed of dog is also well-suited to living in an apartment or house with no yard as long as their exercise needs are met both mentally and physically.
5.1. Suitability for Families and Children
Basset Fauve de Bretagnes tend to be extremely family-friendly and can make exceptionally good pets for those with younger children. The breed is known for being sweet-natured, and they generally love to be around people and shower them with affection. As a result, they typically form strong bonds with their human family. You might wonder why a velcro-type dog like a Fauve would make an ideal child’s companion. After all, Basset Fauve de Bretagnes often follow their human family members from room to room and generally like to be where the action is. So, it’s important to be realistic and thoughtful when deciding if you can truly handle the needs of this breed once the dog comes home. If you have toddlers at home or children who have never been around dogs before, it’s always a good idea to socialize your new pup even more thoroughly with young children to help avoid any negative associations.
One of the most important things to do when planning to add a dog to the family, especially a young one, is making sure that all of your kids are on board with the decision. It can be difficult to look at their adorable little faces and say “no,” but taking all your family dynamics into consideration is one of the most important steps in deciding if a Basset Fauve de Bretagne is truly a good fit. Consequently, swaying them towards the idea of adopting a pet can actually significantly enhance your (and your new Fauve’s) new life together. Reflecting on family interactions may also offer some clues to indicate whether bringing a pup home is the right decision. Proper socialization and training, while important for any dog, are especially crucial in families with young children. Due to young kids’ relatively high-pitched voices, quick movements, noisy toys, and sometimes demonstrative displays of affection, it can initially pose a challenge or even a sight of anxiety for some dogs, especially shy ones. Once a dog gains its proper training fit for any family situation that may come, however, it can be a great addition to any family. Basset Fauve de Bretagnes generally seem to do best with a combination of crate training, house training, and continuous socialization around children and people. Because Basset Fauve de Bretagnes can be so scattered in their movements, as well as quick and agile, having a fenced-in backyard or local area to play with kids in safely can also be highly advantageous. If taken care of properly, a Basset Fauve de Bretagne can be an excellent dog and a good playmate for kids. Moreover, they can be taken on walks and have large and small animal playdates at the owner’s discretion. It’s always important not to leave any dog unattended with a small child, no matter how much training and socialization both dogs and kids may have had. Always have adult supervision during playtimes and training times between child and dog.