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Basset Fauve De Bretagne

Basset Fauve De Bretagne

SmallGroup 4 — HoundsHound11-14 yearsActivity: HighBarking: Frequent barkerShedding: Light
Weight

Male: 13-16 kg, Female: 11-14 kg

Height

32-38 cm at the shoulder

Lifespan

11-14 years

Origin

France (Brittany)

About the Basset Fauve De Bretagne

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a compact, hardy, and remarkably agile scent hound originating from the Brittany region of France. Descended from the now-extinct Grand Fauve de Bretagne, this smaller 'basset' version was developed to navigate the dense, brambled terrain of its homeland. They possess a distinctive rustic appearance characterized by a harsh, wiry coat and a lively, intelligent expression that hints at their spirited nature. Despite their short legs, they are surprisingly fast and possess immense stamina. In a domestic setting, they are known for their affectionate and even-tempered personality, making them excellent companions for active families. However, their history as a pack hunter means they retain a powerful scent drive and a 'hound song' that they aren't afraid to use when they catch an interesting trail.

Breed Standard

Key characteristics from the breed standard

In the ring, the Fauve exhibits a 'rustic elegance' that is entirely unique. Unlike the more exaggerated Basset Hound, the Fauve should appear balanced and functional, with a level topline and a free, active gait that covers ground with ease. Their head should show a clearly defined occipital protuberance and ears that reach just to the end of the nose.

In Australia

The history of the breed in Australia began in 1991, when the first specimens were imported by Mr. and Mrs. J. and H. Gale for the purpose of establishing the breed for show and companionship, as recorded by Dogs Victoria.

Bred For

Scent hunting small game, particularly rabbits and hares, through thick, thorny undergrowth.

Temperament

Courageous, determined, sociable, and cheerful with a persistent hunting instinct.

Health Conditions Reported in the Breed

Primary Open Angle (POAG), ear infections (otitis externa), , , and occasional heart murmurs.

Grooming Needs

Moderate; requires weekly brushing and professional hand-stripping of the wire coat 2-3 times per year to maintain texture.

Good with Kids

Generally very good with children, particularly older children who respect the dog's independence.

Good with Other Pets

Excellent with other dogs; has a high prey drive and may chase small pets like cats or rabbits unless socialised early.

Trainability

Highly intelligent but independent and stubborn; requires patient, reward-based training and a firm hand with recall.

Coat & Colours

Harsh, wiry, very short, and dense; never woolly or curly.. Fawn, gold-wheaten, and red-wheaten; occasionally with a small white spot on the chest.

Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.

Things to Consider

Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is more likely to experience Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (POAG), a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness; while this is a predisposition and not a certainty, owners should ensure their dog comes from DNA-tested parentage. Because of their beautiful floppy ears, they are predisposed to ear infections as moisture and debris can become trapped; a quick weekly ear check and clean will keep them comfortable. As scent hounds, they possess an incredibly high prey drive and an independent streak—if they catch a scent, they may 'tune out' your calls, so a secure yard and a long lead are essential tools. They are also prone to the classic 'hound song' (vocalisation), which is a charming part of their personality but something to consider if you have close neighbours. While generally hardy, they are more likely to develop weight-related joint stress if overfed, so keeping them lean on a fresh diet is the best way to support their long-term mobility. Like many scent hounds, they can be predisposed to dietary sensitivities or digestive upset when fed highly processed kibble containing heavy fillers, often thriving significantly better on a single-protein fresh diet.

Feeding Guide for Your Basset Fauve De Bretagne

Healthy Weight

11-16 kg

Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)

280-480 grams of fresh food per day

A fresh, raw diet is highly effective for this breed's metabolism. For an adult weighing 14 kg, feed approximately 350 grams daily (based on 2.5% of body weight). Active hunting or working dogs may require up to 3% (420g), while seniors may thrive on 2% (280g).

Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.

Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.

Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach

Breed Diet Notes

A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet focusing on lean meats to maintain a healthy weight and support high activity levels.

A balanced raw diet for the Fauve should prioritize lean proteins like Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef to prevent weight gain, which can stress their joints. Adding pureed green vegetables provides essential fiber. Due to their ears and skin folds, ensuring an Omega-3 source like fish oil is beneficial.

These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.

Majestik Recommendation

Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.

Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.

Suitable for different needs

  • Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
  • Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
  • Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
  • Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
  • Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.

This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.

Basset Fauve De Bretagne Feeding Calculator

Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile

Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.

Have a question about your Basset Fauve De Bretagne? Dog Health AI

Dog Health AI

Why Majestik?

Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia

Australian Made

Made in Two Wells, South Australia

Freshly Prepared

Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients

No Fillers

No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives

Family Owned

Locally owned and operated

Local Delivery

Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas

Secure Checkout

Secure payment via Shopify checkout

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Breed Records & Facts

Average Litter Size

4-6 puppies

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