Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Also known as Basset Leonado de Bretaña
France, Scent hounds
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 32–38 cm
- Weight
- 16–18 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Lively
- Cheerful
- Brave
- Scent-driven
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a small French scent hound from Brittany, developed to hunt hare and small game in rough, scrubby country. It is a short-legged but sturdy hound with a harsh, wiry coat in fawn, wheaten or red shades, and fairly short, folded ears. It is an uncommon breed outside France, where it is valued both as a hunter and as a companion.
Temperament
Lively, cheerful and brave, usually friendly with people and other dogs. Strongly scent-driven and independent, so it may be hard to recall. Can be noisy.
Exercise
Needs a good daily walk of an hour or more, with chances to sniff and explore. Keep on lead where not secure.
Grooming
Harsh coat needs brushing weekly and occasional tidying. Check ears.
Care & wellbeing
Short-legged, long-bodied dogs should be kept lean and avoid frequent jumping, to protect the back. Check ears regularly.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 17 kg adult- Water
- 680 ml–1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 940 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Basset Fauve de Bretagne
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A French scent hound from Brittany, developed for hunting hare, rabbit and other small game. Short-legged, rugged and with a harsh fawn coat, it is a cheerful, energetic hunter and companion.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Basset Fauve de Bretagne. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Basset Fauve de Bretagne is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Basset Fauve de Bretagne right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne get?
Adult Basset Fauve de Bretagnes typically stand about 32–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–18 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Basset Fauve de Bretagnes live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Basset Fauve de Bretagnes easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Basset Fauve de Bretagnes shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Basset Fauve de Bretagnes good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Basset Fauve de Bretagne live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- France
- Type
- Scent hounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1963