The Basset Fauve de Bretagne originated near north-west France in Brittany. Also known as the Tawny Brittany Basset, this breed was created from crossbreeding the Basset Griffon Vendeen and other short-statured basset breeds. Although there have been speculations made as to the true origins of this breed and how it actually came to be. Some written information states this is a descendent of the Grand Fauve de Bretagne, a now extinct breed, and others claim the lineage traces to the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne.

A group of Basset Fauve de Bretagnes was raised by Francis I of France during the early to mid 1500s but by the 19th century, their numbers had declined to very few. However, the decline in the numbers has also been disputed. The only true detail to this breed's history is that there are plenty of presumptions and no well-documented facts.

This breed has an elongated body similar to that of the Dachshund. The average shoulder height ranges from 13 to 17 inches and weighs 35 to 40 pounds. This breed has been described as having an overall "dumpy" appearance with a long, rough coat and pendulous ears. Coat colors are golden, wheaten, or fawn and a white spot on the neck or chest area is acceptable. The coat is easy to care for and requires only regular grooming or weekly brushing.

This breed's general appearance includes a head shape that is rather long with broadest ears. The ears should set low and will just reach the end of the nose when pulled forward. The ends of the ears will taper and then turn inward. The muzzle should be the same length as the skull and the hair over the mouth (moustache) is moderate in length. The eyes are dark brown with pigmented rims and the expression should be sparkling.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne has been expressed to be courageous, headstrong, and affectionate. This is a hunting breed and requires ample amounts of exercise and decisive training. Those of this breed that do not receive sufficient space are prone to behavioral issues due to the pent up energy. Owners of this breed praise this dog as being loyal and family-friendly. Its hunting instincts are profound but its personality can adapt to different lifestyles.

This breed is recognized by the UKC, FCI, KC (GB), and KUSA, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne club was registered with the Kennel Club (GB) in 1991 and was granted Championship status in 2007. Each club or organization may have their own standards for this breed set and should be reviewed before showing. Mainly seen in its native country, this breed has started to show a presence in the British show ring but is rarely seen in any other countries.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS, by Joan Palmer, copyright 1994.

http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite .nsf/Breeds/BassetFauveDeBreta gne

http://www.thekennelclub.org.u k/item/11

http://www.bassetfauvedebretag neclub.com/

http://www.petplanet.co.uk/pet planet/breeds/Basset_Fauve_de_ Bretagne.htm

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