Basset Bleu de Gascogne

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne, a distinct and historic hound breed, originates from the Gascony region of France. Developed primarily for hunting in dense underbrush, this breed is known for its striking blue-mottled coat and tenacious hunting ability. Although less famous than some of its hound counterparts, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a noble lineage that ties it closely to the French hunting tradition and a reputation for its excellent scent-tracking capabilities.

The breed has a calm yet lively temperament and a body built for stamina over rough terrain. It is smaller than many of its hound relatives but hardy enough to endure the rigors of a long hunt. It has quite a strong personality, and a very active, baying howl or bark. A strong independent will, but equally a true love for companionship. Despite its rich history and distinctive traits, this breed is not among the most recognized in some of the canine registries, particularly those in North America.

It is however, recognised by the French Kennel Club (SCC) and the International Federation of Kennel Clubs (FCI) where it is listed in the Scenthound group. The UK Kennel Club (KC) also recognises the breed as a member of the hound group of dogs. Neither the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) recognize the breed as of yet, but they are recognised by the United Kennel Club, which is a for-profit club in the USA. 

History Of The Basset Bleu de Gascogne

Originating in the region of Gascony in southwest France, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is steeped in French hunting tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. They are descendants of ancient hounds. Bred specifically for their ability to navigate dense underbrush and track game with their acute sense of smell. Over centuries, the breed was refined to aid hunters who followed on foot rather than on horseback. This ultimately lead to their smaller, more manageable size.

When hunting went through an ‘unfashionable’ phase in the early 1800’s, the breed nearly disappeared completely. It was ultimately saved by the work of dedicated breeders, the first of which was Alain Bourbon. The breed did recover but still remains quite rare to this day, especially so outside of France.

It has become a recognized breed amongst many of the international kennel clubs, but remains elusive from some of the majors like the AKC. The most recent breed standards were just updated by the FCI in 2023. 

Breed Origin

The breed is a direct descendant of the older Grand Bleu de Gascogne, scaled down to a basset size. The ‘bleu’ in their name refers to their distinctive coat color, achieved through selective breeding. This smaller version was more conducive to hunting small game like rabbits and hare in thick forests, allowing hunters easier follow-up on foot.

Quick Facts About The Basset Bleu de Gascogne

• Steady and Tenacious – The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is built for endurance rather than speed, equipped to spend long hours on the trail with a steady and persistent approach. Their tenacity is especially present during scent tracking. When on the scent, they will think about nothing else. A characteristic that makes them excellent hunting companions.

• Gentle yet Independent – This breed is renowned for its gentle and affectionate nature at home, making it a delightful family pet. At the same time though, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne values its independence, a trait typical of hounds that excel in following complex scent trails. This combination makes them adaptable to both active lifestyles, and calm domestic environments.

• Energetic and Engaging – Despite their laid-back appearance, Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s are quite energetic and require plenty of regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. They are happiest when they have tasks to accomplish, particularly those that involve mental stimulation like scent games. If you don’t exercise them enough, they will take to boredom and let you know all about it.

• Social and Vocal – Basset Bleu de Gascognes are inherently social animals that enjoy the company of humans and other dogs, but they might need extra training to socialize them with other, smaller animals. They are also known for their distinctive and very active voice, which can include baying and howling. Especially when they are on the trail or if they become bored.

Characteristics Of The Basset Bleu de Gascogne

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne, is also known by a few other names. In French you might hear them called the Bleus de Gascogne, or simply as the Bleu. In English they also Blue Gascony Basset but all of these names are simply for the same breed. 

Typically, Basset Bleus are born in litters of between four to seven puppies. Like with all pups, its important for these youngsters to stay with their mother and littermates until they are at least eight to ten weeks old to ensure they develop essential social skills.

They should also undergo initial health checks by the breeder during this time. A reputable breeder will have no issue with doing this and providing the certificates as proof.

If you want one of these rare little pups, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. In the United States where they are still a rare, imported breed, prices for a Basset Bleu puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $1300 to $1600 or over. In the UK, prices may start around £800 and can increase depending on the breeder’s reputation and the puppy’s lineage, especially if they are from distinguished hunting or show-quality lines. In France, where they are more popular although still quite rare, they fetch for around 500 to 700 Euros.  

Appearance

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne stands between 12 to 17 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs around 35 to 45 pounds. The standard is a little more restrictive than this but it’s not uncommon to see them grow this tall at the shoulders. Different kennel clubs have different standards, which can also be a bit confusing. The FCI have 34-38 cm (13-15 in) for both males and females, while the UK’s Kennel Club states 30-38 cm (12 to 15 in). It has a medium build that’s slightly longer than it is tall.

The breed’s most notable feature is its blue mottled coat and the unique, ‘four-eyed’ effect created by tan markings above each eye. Their head has a wedge-shaped skull with a well-defined occipital point and a long, slightly aquiline muzzle. Its ears are set low and curl inward, extending beyond the tip of the nose when drawn forward, contributing to the breed’s classic hound appearance. The tail is another characteristic feature, broad at the base and tapering to a point, carried like a sickle.

Coat

The coat is short and dense, designed to withstand the brush of thick woods. The hair is not too fine but it can get quite oily to the touch.

Color

The Basset Bleu has a base color of white, with black marking ‘patches’. The white base is mottled or ticked with black all over and this is what gives them the ‘blue’ appearance. Their coat is then punctuated with tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the ears, and beneath the tail. It’s quite a unique and attractive coat really. 

Temperament

In what you might consider a typically French trait, they are quite an audacious breed when outdoors and on the scent of something. Their surprising openness to take risk might come off as brave at best, or arrogant at worst. Either way, their curiousness is endearing, but balanced out with a true adoration and affection for their family. They may be somewhat reserved with strangers and the unfamiliar, as you would expect from a basset type of hound. In the home, they are quite loving and affectionate, not afraid to show it either.

Lifespan

In good health, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. That’s pretty good for a purebreed of this type.

Known Health Issues

While generally quite a healthy breed, the Basset Bleus do have a few conditions that can sometimes become an issue. Here are some of the most prominent health issues for these dogs:

Arthritis – A common condition in many dog breeds, including the Basset Bleu de Gascogne, arthritis involves the inflammation of joints, which can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility.

• Treatment: Managing arthritis typically involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, dietary supplements, and medications. Similarly to when humans develop the condition, gentle exercise can help keep joints mobile and to  strengthen muscles. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to reduce pain.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – Also known as bloat, this serious condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to rapid clinical deterioration.

• Treatment: GDV is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary intervention. Treatment usually involves stabilizing the dog, decompressing the stomach, and surgery to reposition the stomach and prevent future occurrences.

Otitis Externa – This is an inflammation of the outer ear canal, which is common in breeds with long, droopy ears like the Basset Bleu de Gascogne. Causes can be simple things like allergies or ear mites, or in some cases bacteria, or yeast.

• Treatment: Treatment depends on the underlying cause but generally includes thorough cleaning and medication, such as antibiotics or antifungals. Check their ears regularly to remove debris and moisture, reducing the risk of infection.

Patellar Luxation – This condition involves the dislocation of the kneecap, which can cause pain and limping. It’s often seen in smaller breeds but can affect medium-sized breeds like the Basset Bleu as well.

• Treatment: Treatment ranges from management with pain relief and physical therapy to surgical correction, depending on the severity of the condition. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the stress on the knees.

Daily Life

So what is everyday life with one of these vocal, active scent hounds? Let’s explore this a little

Food and Diet

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires a high-quality diet suitable for a medium sized, active breed. It should be quite easy to find a suitable formula as most manufacturers provide kibble or wet food for dogs of this size and activity level. If you can, try to find one that has a good amount of vitamin A, or add a suitable supplement to their diet. This can help to stop their naturally oily skin from getting as oily so quickly.

Typically, this breed should consume about two to three cups of premium dry kibble or an equivalent caloric amount of nutritious wet food daily, divided into at least two meals. If they prefer three meals then that’s fine, just make sure to divide the total across three and not to just give them extra. This amount ensures they receive the right balance of nutrients to sustain their energy throughout the day while preventing overfeeding.

Adjustments to the diet should be made based on the dog’s activity level, age, and health status. Less active dogs may need fewer calories to avoid obesity, whereas more active individuals might require additional food. For aging Basset Bleus, a diet formulated for senior dogs can help manage weight and support joint health. Puppies, who are naturally more energetic and growing, should be fed more frequently — typically four smaller meals per day — to support their developmental needs and high energy levels.

Exercise

I hope you like walking, because Basset Bleus certainly do. As a natural in tracking and scent work, they need more than just casual walks, and love to be on the go with a job to do. Ideally, their routine should include activities like long walks, interactive play sessions and opportunities for scent-based games which tap into their hunting instincts. Structured physical activities like hiking or supervised off-leash exploration in secure areas can also help meet their needs.

As a minimum, they will need around 2 hours of walking or an equivalent spread across other tasks too. When well exercised, they will be quite happy to snuggle up next to you on the couch. They need close bonding time as much as they need to stretch their legs. 

The regular exercise is not just about their physical health, but their mental health too. It helps to keep them happy, and to mitigate any potential behavior issues stemming from pent-up energy and boredom.

Family Compatability

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is well-suited for family life in the countryside, but not so much for apartment or city life. They love the sound of their own song and this would not go down well with neighbors in a block. They do particularly well in homes where it can blend its playful and affectionate nature with active human companions. 

These dogs are especially good with older children that can offer it playtime, but they might be a bit boisterous for younger kids. Their strong prey drive is also something to be mindful of around very young children. Other than this, they are a very sociable breed, perhaps a bit wary of strangers but quite accepting of other dogs. However, their strong hunting instincts might pose challenges when around small, non-canine pets. So if you have cats for example, they need to be introduced and supervised carefully. 

They might look a bit small and awkward, but they really enjoy being involved in plenty of activity, with a need for consistent physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They are ideal for active families or those with a passion for outdoor activities.

Training

To train the Basset Bleu de Gascogne, needs patience and an understanding of the breed’s distinct traits. The biggest interferer to their training is their sense of smell. While they are a very intelligent breed, they are easily distracted by scents, and will follow their nose at the slightest whiff of something interesting. They also display a fair amount of independence, sometimes coming across as stubbornness. So consistent and engaging training sessions are crucial.

Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play, are recommended to motivate them effectively. Harsh methods and too firm a hand can be counterproductive and may discourage them from participating in training.

Consistency and regular, brief training sessions can help keep them interested and prevent boredom. The most important thing though, is consistency with commands, rewards, and expectations.

Socializing

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a very strong willed dog, especially when it comes to their nose. They have a very strong prey drive, urging them to chase other small animals. They are also naturally wary of strangers and the unfamiliar, so early and consistent socializing is absolutely vital for this breed. If you aim to introduce them to a family with other pets, or with small infants then it is especially important to take the time and effort to socialize them properly. If you don’t, then expect them to give chase without a care for your command.

Start early, get them familiar with other animals, people and places so that they can learn acceptable and appropriate responses. They need to learn their place in the family hierarchy and that other pets are not prey. It will take time for them to learn, as their instincts are very strong. This is one of the main reasons that they really benefit from an experienced owner.

Grooming

Their short, soft coat does shed a fair amount, but despite this it needs only minimal grooming. Regular, weekly brushing should be plenty, but they will need regular baths too as their coat can get quite ‘oily’.

Ear care is really important for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne, to prevent infections and a build up of wax in their floppy lugs. Nails should be monitored and trimmed regularly to prevent discomfort or issues from their active lifestyle.

Breed Traits

Breed FAQs

Summary

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a rare breed as rich in history as it is in character. A good active partner for outdoorsy types, active families or individuals with access to plenty of wide open space. Conversely, they are not really suitable for small houses or yard less city environments.

For an experienced owner, they offer a unique blend of companionship, independence, and hunting prowess. For an inexperienced owner, they would be hard work as they need lots of effort to train. The slightest suggestion of an unfamiliar scent and they lose all focus, off to chase their nose. They are also a very vocal breed, with a love to sing and bark. This might be amusing for the family involved in the activity, but a nuisance for neighbors in an urban space. They really are designed for the country, where they can hunt, play and roam to their and their owners content.