what they are likeBasset Bleu de Gascogne temperament
An active, agile and happy hound with a warm, affectionate side. It hunts eagerly and gets along well working in a pack or alone.23
how to spot oneBasset Bleu de Gascogne coat and colours
short, dense coat
A low-set hound with a long back and short legs. Its short, dense coat is finely mottled black and white, which gives the whole dog a slate-blue sheen.231
Coloursblue mottled (black and white ticking) with or without black patches, tan markings23
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Basset Bleu de Gascogne. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
by countryIs the Basset Bleu de Gascogne legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Basset Bleu de Gascogne in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksBasset Bleu de Gascogne exercise needs
Bred to hunt rabbit and hare, it enjoys daily walks with time to follow scents.2
the hands-on bitsBasset Bleu de Gascogne grooming and care
where they are happiestBasset Bleu de Gascogne at home
Adapts to family homes with secure outdoor space; it is still used as a hunting hound in France.21
who they like aroundBasset Bleu de Gascogne with people and other pets
A pack-minded hound that enjoys company, human or canine.23
where it all beganBasset Bleu de Gascogne history
This short-legged hound comes from the ancient Grand Bleu de Gascogne line of south-west France. Its numbers dwindled in the 19th century, and it was revived in the late 1800s, notably through the work of Alain Bourbon.312
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
The blue colour is an optical effect from dense black and white mottling, not blue hairs.2
2
The UKC calls it supreme evidence of how old its parent breed, the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, is.3
The name 'Basset Bleu de Gascogne' translates to 'Blue Gascony Basset'. 'Basset' refers to its low-set stature, 'Bleu' describes its blue-grey coat color created by black mottling on white, and 'de Gascogne' indicates its origin in the Gascogne region of southern France.1
told by a Basset Bleu de GascogneA day in the life
Bonjour! I am Bleu, a happy hound from Gascony. This morning, I stretched my long ears and sniffed the garden. A rabbit had passed by, I gave a merry bay and followed its trail. My human laughed and called me for a walk. We ambled along the lane, my nose glued to the ground. After a good sniff, I flopped onto the sofa for a nap. Later, I wiggled my whole body when my human came home. I love my cozy life, full of scents, snuggles, and simple joys.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 35, Group 6 (Scenthounds and related breeds), Section 1.3 small-sized hounds, with working trial; standard dated 01.09.2023.2
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Basset Bleu de Gascogne, and at what times?
Adult Basset Bleus do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Feed at consistent times each day to help their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Basset Bleu de Gascogne eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to their age and size is best. Keep them away from grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol, onions, garlic, and other foods listed as toxic for dogs. Always avoid raw meat, bones, and human treats.5
How often should I bathe a Basset Bleu de Gascogne?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but not too frequently to avoid drying their coat.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Basset Bleu de Gascogne need brushing?
Their short coat needs only an occasional brush, and Pet Wiki recommends brushing once a week. Weekly brushing keeps shedding under control and their coat shiny. It's also a nice bonding moment.236Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Basset Bleu de Gascogne's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Basset Bleu de Gascogne need?
This happy hound enjoys daily walks with time to follow scents, plus playtime. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and play to keep them fit and content. They were bred to hunt, so they love sniffing and exploring.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Basset Bleu de Gascogne's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them without pushing anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Basset Bleu de Gascogne live?
Lifespan varies by individual, and Pet Wiki notes that senior years usually start around age 10. For a more accurate estimate, ask your breeder or vet, as they know the dog's health history.
Is a Basset Bleu de Gascogne good with children and other pets?
Yes, this pack-minded hound is warm, affectionate, and gets along well with children and other dogs. They enjoy company and can even work alone or in a pack. Always supervise interactions with very young children.23
Can a Basset Bleu de Gascogne be left alone?
This breed loves company and may not do well left alone for long hours. They are pack-minded and enjoy human or canine companionship. If you must leave them, consider a dog walker or another pet to keep them company.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Grand Bleu de Gascogne
Petit Bleu de Gascogne
Basset Artésien Normand