A lively, friendly little hound that is easy-going and affectionate with its family, then turns bold, clever and persistent once it picks up a scent in the field.
what they are likeBasset Fauve de Bretagne temperament
A lively, friendly little hound that is easy-going and affectionate with its family, then turns bold, clever and persistent once it picks up a scent in the field.235
how to spot oneBasset Fauve de Bretagne coat and colours
rough, harsh wire coat
A dense, wiry coat of moderate length that should feel coarse, never soft, woolly or curly, with only light furnishings on the face.231
A typical home-care rhythm for a Basset Fauve de Bretagne. 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 Fauve de Bretagne legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Basset Fauve de Bretagne 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 Fauve de Bretagne exercise needs
An energetic breed for its size: The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day. Its hunting nose means secure areas are best for off-lead running.4
the hands-on bitsBasset Fauve de Bretagne grooming and care
The harsh, fairly short coat needs a weekly brush, and it sheds. Keeping the coat's rough texture is part of the breed look, so it is not trimmed into a smooth finish.42
who they like aroundBasset Fauve de Bretagne with people and other pets
Traditionally hunted in couples and small packs, so it is used to working alongside other dogs and enjoys company.4
where it all beganBasset Fauve de Bretagne history
The breed comes from Brittany and descends from the larger, now vanished Griffon (Grand) Fauve de Bretagne. It was a popular local hunting dog through the 19th century and became known across France in the last decades of the 20th century as a top rabbit hound.231
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
'Fauve' refers to the fawn colour; the standard allows shades from golden wheaten to a brick red.2
2
The breed has won the French Cup for rabbit-hunting hounds on several occasions.2
3
In Brittany these hounds were traditionally worked in pairs ('couples') or small packs.4
4
A 2006 study cited by Wikipedia found it had the second-lowest inbreeding coefficient (3.9%) of nine French breeds studied.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name comes from French: 'basset' means low-set or dwarf, 'fauve' means fawn-colored, and 'de Bretagne' means from Brittany, France, reflecting its origin as a small, fawn-colored hound from Brittany.5
told by a Basset Fauve de BretagneA day in the life
I am a Fawn Brittany Basset, and my day is never dull! This morning, I bounced out of bed and greeted my family with tail wags. We went to the park, where I sniffed every bush, a hare had been there! I gave a happy bark and followed the scent until my human called me back. After a good run, we played fetch with a squeaky toy. Home again, I curled up on my human's lap for a nap. I am small but full of energy, and lots of love.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 36, Group 6 (Scent hounds and related breeds), Section 1.3 Small-sized hounds; standard dated 05.05.2003, country of origin France.2
The Royal Kennel Club
Hound group. Wikipedia notes it left the UK rare breed register in 2007.4
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 Fauve de Bretagne, and at what times?
Feed your adult Basset Fauve at least two meals a day, ideally at set times. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Basset Fauve de Bretagne eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these.7
How often should I bathe a Basset Fauve de Bretagne?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if needed. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep its harsh coat in good condition.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need brushing?
Brush your Basset Fauve weekly to keep its rough, wiry coat tidy and reduce shedding. This also helps maintain the breed's natural texture.42Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Basset Fauve de Bretagne'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. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne need?
This energetic breed needs more than two hours of exercise daily. Because of its strong hunting nose, use secure areas for off-lead runs.4
How do I look after a Basset Fauve de Bretagne's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan includes weekly ear checks.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne live?
Lifespan varies, but senior years usually start around age 10. For specific longevity, ask your breeder or vet. Pet Wiki plan
Is a Basset Fauve de Bretagne good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is lively, friendly, and affectionate with family. It is used to working with other dogs and enjoys company, so it generally gets along well with children and other pets.2354
Can a Basset Fauve de Bretagne be left alone?
This breed enjoys company and may not like being left alone for long periods. It varies by individual, so ask your breeder or vet for advice.
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.
Griffon Fauve de Bretagne
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen