Is a Basset Fauve de Bretagne the right dog for you?

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne (aka BFB) is a breed fairly new to some countries like the United States where it was only introduced in 2001. Also known as the BFB, as indicated in its name the dog originates from Britain and France and was originally used for hunting animals such as foxes, deer, boars, and rabbits. 

These little dogs are known for their vibrancy, playful nature and being non-aggressive. If you are considering getting Fauve Basset puppies, they are a great addition to the family as they are known for being a loyal breed and are very social creatures that love being around people.

Breed characteristics

A Basset Fauve Bretagne puppy can live for up to 16 years old. The dogs have varying color coats, sometimes with black and white patches. The dogs do not shed very much hair making them easy to maintain and groom, and are known for being healthy. 

The dog is quite compatible with children, and not really advised to join a family with a cat or smaller animals. The dog requires frequent and constant training due to a very short attention span. However, this very trait also makes them great companions for jogs, hikes and walks. 

Size

The small hound dog is unlike most breeds because it does not carry the Napoleon Complex, which most breeds carry. 

The BFB is often confused with the Basset Hound which is small and has long ears. The BFB has short hair and ears and grows up to 15.5 inches. Females are typically smaller than males. The energetic dog also needs a lot of exercise, meaning frequent walks and lots of playtime. 

Temperament

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne temperament is very social and vibrant. It is a great dog because of its social skills, loyalty and sense of companionship. The little dogs are rarely in a bad mood and are not known for being moody or aggressive. 

Their gentle nature does not mean that they are timid, a Basset Fauve de Bretagne puppy is quite difficult to train. It needs a firm owner who is patient and committed to the house rules. 

They are also highly adaptable and can grow accustomed to any type of terrains as natural hunters. Giving them frequent treats and finding ways to win their loyalty is a great way to begin a gentle and patient training journey. 

Grooming 

The BFB is known for being very easy to groom because its coat is wiry and coarse, making it ideal for keeping dirt at bay. The coat rarely mats, and the dog simply needs a good wash every now and again. Although hair length varies, the coat sheds very little hair and typically sheds when the seasons change. 

A BFB needs two or three brushing sessions a week to keep fresh, and it is best to brush them and wash them when they start to smell. It is also advisable to trim the hair around their eyes and ears to avoid overgrowth. 

Compatibility with children

The BFB is a social animal, meaning that it will not have a problem adjusting to children and other dogs in the yard. 

To create a dog-friendly yard specific to the BFB, you need to avoid having cats or smaller animals like rodents because it will attempt to hunt them and create discord. Children easily grow to love BFBs because of their active and playful nature. 

Feeding schedule

To correctly understand how much and when to feed your BFB, it is always best to consult a vet. However, most BFBs thrive when they consume high-quality food. Their dietary requirements change with their age and if they are not getting enough nutrients, they become less active. 

Treats are excellent during the training period, but it is important to ensure that their weight is under control. Thus, its best to phase treats out as they grasp their training. You can also look for great dog apps to guide you on what to feed your BFB. 

Potential health problems

The BFB is a healthy and strong breed. However, owners need to take their dogs for regular check-ups for age-related health complications. Breeders are able to detect disease carriers to keep litters healthy. 

BFBs have a long life expectancy; however, they can be affected by cataracts, epilepsy, heart problems, kidney problems, and ear infections. If detected in due time, these diseases can be treated and cured, so it is important to visit the vet regularly. BFBs require regular exercise to ensure that they stay healthy, active and engaged. 

Conclusion 

Despite needing firm training, BFBs can become your BFF with proper and rigorous training. Before getting one, it is important to ensure that your yard is securely fenced. 

You also need to keep them on a leash while walking them. It is also important to note that the BFB loves playing and being petted so they are excellent around children. When it comes down to it, these dogs are one of the easiest to groom and they are independent when it comes to staying clean. The BFB is a cute and friendly addition to the family and offers great companionship with its energetic nature. 

Elizabeth Skinner is a writer and editor who works as a team leader for an online assignment help service. She also works as a mentor to help students develop high-level writing skills to be successful bloggers and academic writers. In her free time, she plays tennis, practices yoga and tries her hand at kitchen gardening.