The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an intelligent hunting dog with a unique charm.
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne - A traditional breed with a fascinating history
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne - A unique hunting dog with charm The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a traditional French dog breed with an impressive past. Its roots go back to the Middle Ages, where it was used as a prized hunting dog for tracking. Its distinctive blue spotted coat, long ears and friendly nature make it a special companion to this day.
At Tine's Dog Breeding we attach great importance to preserving the unique characteristics of this traditional breed. Our breeding combines expertise, love and responsibility to produce healthy dogs with a strong temperament that are a delight both as hunting dogs and as family dogs.
Get to know the Basset Bleu de Gascogne and its fascinating history - a dog with character, tradition and charm!
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1. origin & history
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a very old French breed that is mainly used for hunting, but is also an excellent companion dog. It can be used for mantrailing, tracking or trick dogging. Due to its exceptional nose, it would also be suitable as a rescue search dog.
According to the FCI, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne belongs to Group 6 (Running Dogs, Welding Dogs and Related Breeds), Section 1 (Running Dogs), Number 1.3 (Small Running Dogs). Together with the Basset Artesien Normand, the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen and the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, it is one of the small running dogs from France recognized by the FCI.
Its origins lie in the historic province of Gascony in the southwest of France on the border with Spain. At the beginning of the 20th century, the breed was rare in France and almost threatened with extinction. From 1910, the famous French breeder Alain Bourbon took on this breed. He was able to save them from disappearing and described them in his 1912 book No Bassets Français.
2. physical characteristics
The appearance of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne corresponds to the FCI standard of a typical Basset: quite corpulent, but not too heavy. The coat is short and dense and marbled black and white right down to the robust skin. This special coat pattern gives him his name. The entire dog is completely mottled black and white with a slate-blue shimmer. More or less extensive areas of black coat are common and desirable.
Special badges are:
✔Continuous black patches of fur around the eyes with a white curved stripe in between, ideally with a small black spot.
✔Two intense tan-colored spots above the eyebrows, known as four-eyed spots.
✔More tan markings on the cheeks, lips, inside of the ears, on the legs and in the tail area.
The body must be considerably longer than high. The depth of the chest is about two thirds of the height of the body. The forelegs are strong and may have a slight turn, while the hind legs are long and muscular. The tail is strong at the base and is carried half-rounded as a sabre tail.
The expressive head is narrow and light, with a pronounced occipital protuberance. The black, broad nose above the long, hanging lips is another typical feature. The striking oval, seemingly deep-set eyes give him a gentle, slightly sad look. His thin, wrinkled, pointed ears reach over the tip of his nose.
3. character and behavior
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a dog with brains and character. As a hunting dog, it has worked closely with humans for a long time and shows a high degree of independence in its tasks. He hunts very thoroughly and is described as energetic, agile and active, but at the same time is able to fit into a pack. This also makes him a pleasant companion in a family group.
He is cheerful, cuddly and gentle. His conscientious work is particularly evident when hunting hares and rabbits. He also has a loud voice with a characteristic, melodic ringing.
4. nutrition
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is generally not a fussy eater, but a balanced and needs-based diet plays a decisive role in its health and vitality. A high-quality diet with all essential nutrients ensures a shiny coat, strong bones and good digestion. A high meat content in the feed is particularly important, as the Basset Bleu de Gascogne, as an active breed, needs a lot of energy. Both high-quality dry and wet food are suitable options, as long as they are free from unnecessary additives and of good quality.
As this breed is prone to flatulence, Moro's carrot soup can be a valuable supplement to aid digestion and soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Care should also be taken to control the amount of food fed to avoid obesity - especially as the Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a rather cozy nature and tends to gain weight quickly.
In addition to the main food, healthy snacks such as carrots, apples or special chews are useful to support dental care and keep the dog occupied. Fresh water should always be available in sufficient quantities. An individually tailored diet, adapted to the age, activity level and state of health, contributes significantly to the quality of life of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.
(Dante)
5. health and diseases
This breed is relatively robust, but there are still some health aspects to consider.
Common problems are:
✔Ear infections due to the long drooping ears.
✔ Tendency to be overweight.
Regular visits to the vet, a healthy diet and sufficient exercise help to keep your pet healthy.
(Octavia)
6. habitat and environment
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a lively and persistent dog that needs plenty of exercise and activity. Long daily walks are essential for him, as he loves to explore his surroundings with his fine nose. A home with a large, securely fenced garden is ideal, but even this is no substitute for the regular exercise and mental challenge he needs.
He feels particularly at home in the great outdoors - whether in the forest, meadows or fields. This is where he can use his sniffer nose and act out his natural hunting instinct. Due to these pronounced instincts, he should only be allowed to run free or be led on a lead in secure areas. In addition to physical exercise, it is also important to keep him mentally active, for example with tracking work, search games or mantrailing. These activities not only challenge him, but also strengthen his bond with his owner.
Despite his compact size, he is not a dog for a quiet life on the sofa. They need regular exercise and challenges to keep them balanced and happy. Anyone who chooses a Basset Bleu de Gascogne should therefore enjoy long walks and adventures together in the great outdoors.
(Fleur)
Reproduction and adoption of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne
When breeding, careful selection of the parent animals is important to ensure the health of the puppies. Reputable breeders or animal welfare organizations are good places to go if you are interested.
(Dante)
3 irresistible reasons why the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is the perfect dog for you!
✔️ Excellent hunting dog with a strong nose.
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne was bred to reliably follow tracks. Its excellent nose makes it ideal for hunting, mantrailing or tracking.
✔️ Friendly, even-tempered & family-friendly.
Despite his hunting instinct, this dog is extremely affectionate, friendly and good-natured. His calm nature also makes him popular as a family dog.
✔️ Unique appearance & robust health.
Its blue-spotted coat, long ears and harmonious build make it unmistakable. The breed is also considered robust and easy to care for.
💙 The Basset Bleu de Gascogne - a dog with history, character and charm!
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