Basset Bleu de Gascogne

Basset Bleu de Gascogne: A charismatic companion from France

History of the dog breed

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne has its roots in the southwest of France, more precisely in the Gascogne region. This breed was created in the Middle Ages by crossing the Grand Bleu de Gascogne with smaller hunting dogs. The name "Bleu" refers to the blue mold pattern in the coat, which is created by a mixture of black and white hairs. Originally, these dogs were bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares. Their excellent nose and stamina made them excellent hunting companions.

Who is the Basset Bleu de Gascogne suitable for?

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is ideal for active people and families who spend a lot of time outdoors. These dogs are extremely sociable and love to be part of family life. They are also ideal for hunters looking for a reliable and persistent hunting dog. Their friendly nature makes them good companions for children and they generally get along well with other pets.

Character and behavior

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is known for its gentle and affectionate character. It is very affectionate and shows a deep bond with its family. These dogs are intelligent and eager to learn, which makes training easier. However, their passion for hunting and their keen sense of smell can lead to a strong tendency to sniff and explore during walks.

Appearance of the dog breed

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized dog with a robust, muscular build. It has a short, dense coat with unique blue markings. Typical features are the long, low-set ears and expressive eyes, which give it a gentle and friendly expression. Adult dogs reach a shoulder height of around 34 to 38 cm and weigh between 16 and 20 kg.

Grooming the Basset Bleu de Gascogne

Grooming the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is relatively easy. Its short coat should be brushed regularly to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. The long ears should be regularly checked for signs of infection or dirt and cleaned. The claws also need to be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth.

Health of the dog breed

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a generally healthy breed, but as with all breeds, there are some health issues to watch out for. These include hip dysplasia, ear infections and occasional eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet will help to keep these dogs healthy and happy.

Size and weight

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne reaches a shoulder height of 34 to 38 cm and weighs between 16 and 20 kg. This compact size makes it a handy companion that can cope well in both urban and rural environments.

Movement requirements and living environment

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks and opportunities to run freely are important to satisfy his hunting instincts and keep him happy. Although he can adapt well to life in the city, he needs regular outings in the countryside to work off his energy.

Training recommendations

Training the Basset Bleu de Gascogne should be patient and consistent. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective. As these dogs have a strong hunting instinct, it is important to start and consolidate recall training at an early stage. Mental challenges, such as search games and nose work, are also recommended to keep the dog mentally challenged.

Behavioral characteristics and interactions

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a friendly and social dog that gets along well with children and other animals. Its gentle nature makes it a great family dog. Due to its strong sense of smell and passion for hunting, it can sometimes be stubborn, which makes training a little more challenging. Nevertheless, he is very loyal and eager to please his owner.

Recognition by the FCI

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and belongs to Group 6, the running dogs and sighthounds. This recognition underlines its importance and the high standard that this breed enjoys in the dog world.