Breed History:

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small French scent hound that originated in Brittany, France, and descends from the now-extinct Grand Fauve de Bretagne, a large hound used during the Middle Ages for hunting wolves and boar. In the 19th century, breeders developed a shorter-legged version of this dog to hunt smaller game like rabbits and foxes, resulting in the modern Basset Fauve.

By the early 20th century, the breed nearly vanished, but dedicated French enthusiasts revived it through careful breeding, possibly with contributions from the Dachshund to restore numbers and maintain type. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognized the breed in 1963.

Today, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne remains a popular rabbit and hare hound in France and is gaining recognition internationally for its lively personality, manageable size, and rustic charm.

Height: 32-38 cm

Weight: 16-18 kg

Size: Small to Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Basset Fauve is a sturdy, compact hound with short legs and a long, rough coat that protects it in harsh underbrush. Its appearance is defined by bushy eyebrows, a beard, and slightly drooping ears, giving it a rustic and expressive look.

Its coat is dense, coarse, and harsh, typically fawn to reddish wheaten in color, sometimes with darker shading on the ears or back. Its body is longer than it is tall, and the tail is thick at the base and carried in a sabre shape.

Breed Type – Scent Hound:

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a passionate scent hound, originally bred to hunt independently in packs, especially in rough terrain. It is driven by scent, tenacious on the trail, and remarkably agile despite its short stature.

While a natural hunter outdoors, the breed is affectionate, alert, and friendly at home, making it suitable as both a working dog and companion.

Training:

This breed is intelligent but independent:

• Motivated by scent and food, making training possible with patience

• Can be stubborn and easily distracted by smells

• Early socialization and basic obedience are essential

• Recall is a challenge—best kept leashed or in fenced areas

• Does well with positive reinforcement and short, fun sessions

Best for owners who enjoy working with clever but strong-willed breeds.

Health & Care:

Generally a hardy breed, but may be prone to:

• Ear infections due to floppy ears

• Obesity if overfed or under-exercised

• Eye conditions (cataracts, retinal issues—rare)

• Back strain due to long body/short legs (less severe than in Dachshunds)

Routine ear cleaning, weight management, and regular vet checks help ensure longevity.

Living Conditions:

The Basset Fauve adapts well to various settings:

• Good in houses or apartments if exercised regularly

• Needs secure fencing—can follow scents and wander off

• Gets along well with children and other dogs

• Can live with cats if raised together, but may chase small animals

• Prefers being part of the family—not a dog for long isolation

Exercise:

Moderate to high exercise needs:

• Requires daily walks and opportunities to sniff and explore

• Thrives on tracking games, hikes, or scent work

• Without enough exercise, may become bored or vocal

• Yard play is helpful but does not replace outdoor activity

Compact but full of energy, the breed enjoys engaged and active households.

Grooming:

Low to moderate grooming needs:

• Brush weekly to remove debris and loose hairs

• Hand-strip 2–3 times a year to maintain coat texture (optional for pet homes)

• Clean ears weekly to prevent infections

• Trim nails and clean teeth regularly

• Bath only when needed—the coat repels dirt fairly well

Sheds moderately year-round.

Advantages:

• Friendly, social, and good with families

• Compact size but rugged and outdoorsy

• Excellent scenting and hunting skills

• Low grooming needs and relatively clean

• Hardy, long-lived, and low health issues

• Adaptable to both countryside and urban living

Disadvantages:

• Strong prey drive—recall is difficult

• Can be stubborn or independent during training

• May develop separation anxiety or vocalize if bored

• Needs mental stimulation and regular walks

• Prone to ear infections and weight gain

• Rare outside France—can be hard to find reputable breeders