Basset Bleu De Gascogne Breed Details
Below are details and specs for the Basset Bleu De Gascogne dog breed.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Dog Breed
Bleu De Gascogne
Bleu Gascogne French Hound
Bleus De Gascogne
Blue Gascony Basset
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a French basset that is rarely found outside France. It is a long-backed, low-legged purebred with a lineage that goes back to the 14th century, was identified in a 15th century illuminated manuscript translated into English as "Book of The Hunt".
A scent hound whose primary task was to hunt rabbits in the brutal brambles, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is, nevertheless, a great family dog that is accustomed to being around other dogs, playing with children and the company of people. Ideally this breed should be partnered with a hunter or just a generally active owner that lives somewhere with a large yard (at the very least). The Basset Bleu is a shedder but is otherwise fairly low maintenance.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Breed Description
Males and females are alike in size when mature, and when mature they are around 13 to 17 inches high and weighs between 35 and 40 pounds.
When not chasing prey, they are very friendly, play well with children and are receptive around strangers. With most other pets, they are reserved — unless those other pets are rabbits or small rodents.
Except for exercise, Bassets Bleu de Gascogne are very low-maintenance dogs. They need just a little brushing, even less bathing and the occasional (and gentle) cleaning of their ears. As for exercise, they need quite a bit every day as well or they very well may exhibit bad behavior.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Breed History
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a purebred dog that is said to be the oldest native breed in France. This beautiful hunting dog has a very long history that goes back to at least the 14th century, became nearly extinct by the 19th century (due to the lowered interest in hunting as well as the aftermath of the French revolution) and is believed to have been brought back from the brink of extinction by a breeder named Alain Bourbon.
Translated in English, the dog's name means Blue Gascony Basset, the term "basset" being a French term meaning "low-set" and which describes this hunting dog's body that was bred to hunt boar and other animals that preferred terrain covered with brush, bramble and thorny plants.
Some say that the origins of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne came from cross-breeding a Grand Bleu with a Saintongeois Basset, whereas others claim that it came from the Grand Bleu being allowed to occur from selective breeding with an intent to shorten the breed's legs. In any case, the first known written record regarding the Basset Bleu de Gascogne was published by Gaston III of Foix-Béarn (also known as Gaston Phoebus) in his circa 1407 illuminated manuscript titled Le Livre de la Chasse (Book of The Hunt).
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is formally recognized internationally by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as well as by The Kennel Club (in United Kingdom) and by the U.S.-based United Kennel Club. This breed is rarely found outside France.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Appearance
Bassets Bleu de Gascogne are short-legged, long-backed and smooth-coated. Their muzzles are strong and their long, floppy ears are set below the eyes — which are oval-shaped and tend to appear gentle and somewhat sad; their pronounced chests protrude proudly forward. The tail is long, pointed, a bit curved and may either hang low or be erect.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Colors
The images below represent the coat colors and patterns associated with Basset Bleu De Gascogne.
Black and Tan
Black and White
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Temperament
Bassets Bleu de Gascone are even-tempered dogs, for the most part, but when around packs or on the hunt, they can be high-spirited. Despite their hunting genetic blueprint, they are extremely good family dogs who love to play and are as intelligent as they are amusing.
Members of this breed are happy to be around other canine pets but small rodent like ones may become a problem since this breed primarily hunted rabbits. They are welcoming to strangers, which makes them a less than ideal guard dog but great for an owner with frequent visitors. Whether kept as a hunting partner or a companion this dog should be given plenty of outdoor room to roam. If they do not have plenty of acreage they are familiar with then they should be in a fenced yard.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Maintenance
Bassets Bleu de Gascone are low-maintenance dogs in most all respects except exercise. They need very little brushing (although they shed a lot) and they have very few health problems but they do demand significant outdoor space as well as require plenty of daily exercise.
Grooming Requirements
Like most bassets, the Basset Bleu de Gascone is a low-maintenance dog regarding grooming. A weekly brushing (with a rubber brush) of the short coat to remove dead hair; bathing only when necessary; and keeping the ears clean and the nails clipped is about all that is required. They do shed a lot; it should be noted.
Exercise Requirements
Bassets Bleu de Gascone are hunting dogs with a demeanor not unlike a long-distance runner: they are meant to be active for long periods of time and they tend to pace themselves well provided they are allowed to do so. They are not very active inside if left alone, and it is best to give them a toy to hunt. Still, they require long daily walks; if they are allowed to be inactive, they are known to develop destructive behavior.
Living Requirements
Apartments are not ideal for this purebred basset hound. Bassets Bleu de Gascone need lots of room to roam, and the best home for them is a rural or semi-suburban home with a huge, fenced-in yard. They have excellent noses, however, so when they are outdoors, they should be leashed if in an unenclosed area lest they get a scent and chase it. Once on the hunt, they are very difficult to recover if not restrained.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Health
Due to their elongated backs, the primary health issues that must be anticipated with a Basset Bleu de Gascone are back problems (especially as they age) and bloat.
Basset Bleu De Gascogne Health Concerns
Below are potential health concerns associated with Basset Bleu De Gascogne.
Bloat
Back issues
About this Article
Updated:June 10, 2016