Breed History:

The Basset Artésien Normand is a French scent hound developed in the Normandy and Artois regions of France during the 19th century. It was bred from older short-legged French hounds to create a slower-moving hunting dog capable of tracking rabbits and small game through dense undergrowth.

French hunters preferred a dog that could move at a manageable pace on foot while still possessing an excellent sense of smell and determination. The breed was refined by breeders such as Léon Verrier, who helped standardise its appearance and working abilities.

Closely related to other French basset breeds, the Basset Artésien Normand became popular for both hunting and companionship due to its affectionate temperament and manageable size.

Size: Small-Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Basset Artésien Normand is a low-set, long-bodied hound with short legs and a sturdy build. Despite its compact height, the breed is muscular and agile enough for field work.

It has:

• A slightly domed head

• Long, soft, drooping ears

• Large dark eyes with a gentle expression

• Strong chest and well-developed body

• Long tail carried in a slight curve

The short, smooth coat is typically tricolour (tan, white, and black) or bicolour (tan and white).

Its overall appearance combines elegance with the classic scenthound structure.

Breed Type – Scent Hound/Hunting Dog:

The Basset Artésien Normand is a calm, affectionate, and determined scent hound bred for tracking small game. It possesses an excellent nose and strong scent-following instincts.

Friendly and sociable, the breed usually gets along well with children, other dogs, and family members. It enjoys companionship and does not like being left alone for long periods.

Though gentle indoors, the breed can become very focused and stubborn when following a scent outdoors.

Training:

The Basset Artésien Normand is intelligent but can be independent due to its hound ancestry. Training should be patient, positive, and reward-based.

Food motivation works particularly well with this breed.

Training should focus on:

• Recall training

• Leash manners

• Early socialisation

• Basic obedience

• Scent-based activities

Harsh corrections are ineffective and may lead to stubbornness or disengagement.

Health & Care:

The breed is generally healthy but may be prone to:

• Ear infections

• Obesity

• Back problems due to a long body structure

• Hip dysplasia

• Eye issues

Maintaining a healthy weight is very important for reducing stress on the joints and spine.

Regular ear cleaning and moderate exercise help prevent many common issues.

Living Conditions:

The Basset Artésien Normand adapts well to family life and can live comfortably in apartments or houses provided it receives regular walks and mental stimulation.

It enjoys access to secure outdoor spaces where it can safely sniff and explore.

Because of its social nature, this breed does best in homes where it receives regular human interaction and companionship.

Exercise:

Although less intense than some working breeds, the Basset Artésien Normand still requires daily activity to stay healthy and mentally satisfied.

Ideal activities include:

• Daily walks

• Scent games

• Tracking exercises

• Gentle play sessions

• Outdoor exploration

Care should be taken to avoid excessive jumping or rough activity that may strain the back.

Grooming:

The breed has a short, easy-care coat that requires minimal maintenance.

• Weekly brushing to remove loose hair

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Frequent ear cleaning to prevent infections

• Routine nail trimming and dental care

The coat sheds moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Gentle and affectionate temperament

• Excellent scenting abilities

• Good with children and other dogs

• Adaptable to various living situations

• Moderate exercise requirements

• Low-maintenance grooming

Disadvantages:

• Can be stubborn during training

• Strong scent drive may affect recall

• Prone to ear infections

• Risk of obesity if overfed

• Long back requires careful handling

• May howl or bark when bored or lonely