Basset Fauve De Bretagne Dog Breed

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a hunting dog whose intensity is occasionally fatal. (See the Health section of this breed's page to see why.) These dogs are not at all for first-time dog owners, and even experienced dog owners may not have what it takes to deal with these dogs. They are scent hounds whose noses are the only thing to which they adhere once they smell something of interest. They require a very firm yet patient hand when training and for the rest of their lives as well. They work well alone and in packs, and they tend to be very vocal. They are fine with people they trust, and they do well enough alone too.

These short-legged, long-bodied, and very durable dogs are comedians until something catches their nose. Once that happens, the hunt is on and all bets are off. This is an obstinate dog whose centuries of hard-wired head is all about the hunt. It's best to appreciate this important characteristic by learning as much Basset Fauve de Bretagne breed information as possible.

They may be hard-headed, and their intelligence is not easily understood by those who don't realize these dogs are all about tracking and, ultimately, the hunt. They might be difficult to train by those who don't understand that every lesson must be based on what these fine dogs are bred to do.

Learning the subtle facial habits of this breed is a must. It's unusual for the typical Basset Fauve De Bretagne to hesitate once he has a scent. When he is uncertain of what to do, it's said that his ears will swivel outward and his eyes become large and clear. This is perhaps to try and assess the environment rather than focus on the trail at hand.

Left to be lazy, these dogs can be that. It's that hound dog thing, after all! On the other hand, they won't hesitate to hunt. With some gentle prodding, they'll also be up for basic exercise such as jogging and walking. An average amount of daily activity should suffice.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne temperament is not an easy one for most people despite this small scent hound's otherwise friendly and almost goofy personality. These dogs are driven by their nose, and they are meant to get what guides them at most any cost. Once they get going, it's very difficult to get them to stop. Calling them back is all but impossible save for the master that has trained them for the hunt.

They get along very well with other dogs, and as a pack they are a force with which to be reckoned. They will bark and howl once the game is afoot. Prior to that, they'll be very sly about their intentions so as to not give out their position to potential game — be it a rabbit, squirrel, or your neighbor's cat. Still, when it comes to most kids, they will be happy to play!

The health profile of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a good one. There is one problem that stands out with this particular hound, however, and it's neither a heritable disease nor an ailment that occurs from infections and the like. According to the UK Kennel Club, one of the leading causes of death for this breed is road traffic accidents.

Below is a list of the non-motor-related health concerns regarding the Basset Fauve de Bretagne:

• Cancer
• Epilepsy
• Cataracts
• Heart disease
• Kidney failure
• Ear infections
• Corneal ulcers
• Reproductive problems

The average lifespan of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne is from 10 to 14 years — although it's often on the lower end of that range.