Basset Bleu de Gascogne

Profile

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized scent hound known for its distinctive blue and white coat. Originating from France, this breed is known for its excellent tracking abilities and gentle, friendly nature.

History

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a French breed that originated in the region of Gascony in the Middle Ages. They were bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares. The breed is a descendant of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and was developed to have a shorter stature for easier tracking through dense underbrush.

Highlights

Originating from France, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized scent hound known for its distinctive blue and white coat.

This breed is known for its excellent sense of smell and tracking abilities, making them well-suited for hunting and tracking game.

Basset Bleu de Gascognes are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great family pets that get along well with children and other animals.

Despite their hunting instincts, they are generally gentle and easy-going dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

With proper training and socialization, Basset Bleu de Gascognes can make loyal and loving companions for active families.

Appearance

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized dog breed with a distinctive appearance. They typically weigh between 35-45 pounds and stand around 12-15 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a short, smooth coat that is predominantly blue with white markings.

Their long ears, droopy eyes, and wrinkled skin give them an endearing and charming look. Overall, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a sturdy and athletic breed with a unique and elegant appearance.

Personality & Behaviour

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a gentle and affectionate dog breed known for its calm and friendly demeanor. They are intelligent and loyal, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.

Basset Bleus are known for their strong hunting instincts and may have a tendency to follow their nose, so it’s important to keep them on a leash when out for walks.

They are generally good with children and other pets, but early socialization is key to ensuring they get along well with others.

Temperament

Compatibility with Children

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is known for being gentle, affectionate, and good-natured, making them a great choice for families with children. They are patient and tolerant, making them well-suited for the energy and curiosity of children.

However, they may have a stubborn streak and require consistent training and socialization. With proper care and attention, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can be a loyal and loving companion for children, forming strong bonds and providing endless hours of play and companionship.

Compatibility with other Pets

Basset Bleu de Gascogne are generally friendly and sociable dogs that get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats. They have a gentle and laid-back nature, making them good companions for other animals in the household.

However, as with any breed, proper socialization and training are important to ensure harmonious relationships with other pets.

With early socialization and positive experiences, Basset Bleu de Gascogne can be compatible with a variety of other animals in the home.

Care Requirements

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a low-maintenance breed that requires regular exercise to prevent obesity. They have a short coat that only needs occasional brushing to remove loose hair.

Regular ear cleaning is important to prevent infections due to their long, droopy ears. This breed is prone to obesity, so a balanced diet and portion control are essential. Mental stimulation through training and interactive toys is also important to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Overall, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a relatively easy breed to care for.

Monthly Maintenance Cost

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming, but they do have specific needs that should be considered when budgeting for monthly expenses. Here is a breakdown of the average monthly maintenance costs for a Basset Bleu de Gascogne:

• Food: $30-$50
• Veterinary care (including vaccinations and check-ups): $50-$100
• Grooming supplies (shampoo, brushes, etc.): $10-$20
• Training classes or toys: $20-$30
• Miscellaneous expenses (treats, flea prevention, etc.): $20-$40

Total estimated monthly maintenance cost: $130-$240.

Health

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. It is important for owners to be aware of these common health problems and take necessary precautions to prevent them.

Some of the health issues that Basset Bleu de Gascogne may be prone to include:

1. Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis and lameness.
2. Ear infections: Due to their long, floppy ears, Basset Bleu de Gascogne are more susceptible to ear infections.
3. Obesity: This breed loves to eat and can easily become overweight if not given proper exercise and a balanced diet.
4. Intervertebral disc disease: This is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate, leading to pain and mobility issues.

To prevent these health issues, it is important to:

1. Provide regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
2. Clean and check the ears regularly to prevent infections.
3. Feed a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.
4. Regular vet check-ups to monitor for any potential health issues.

Food & Feeding

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized breed known for its keen sense of smell and hunting abilities. When it comes to feeding this breed, it is important to provide them with a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

It is recommended to feed them a diet that is rich in protein and nutrients to support their overall health and well-being.

Feeding a Basset Bleu de Gascogne should be done in two meals a day to prevent bloating and other digestive issues. The quantity of food will depend on their age, size, and activity level, but generally, they will require about 1.5 to 2 cups of food per day.

It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity.

Feeding timings should be consistent to establish a routine for your Basset Bleu de Gascogne. It is recommended to feed them in the morning and evening at the same times each day.

Providing fresh water at all times is also essential for their health and hydration. Additionally, treats can be given in moderation as rewards for good behavior or training purposes.

Fun Facts About Basset Bleu de Gascogne

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a French scent hound breed that was originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares.

They are known for their distinctive blue mottled coat, long droopy ears, and short legs, which give them a unique and adorable appearance.

Despite their short stature, Basset Bleu de Gascognes are known for their stamina and endurance when hunting, as well as their keen sense of smell.

They are friendly and affectionate dogs that get along well with children and other pets, making them a great family companion.

Basset Bleu de Gascognes are relatively rare outside of France, so they may be harder to find in other countries.

Cost

The average cost of a Basset Bleu de Gascogne ranges from $800 to $1500. Prices may vary based on breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. Additional costs for vaccinations, grooming, and supplies should also be considered. Adoption fees may range from $200 to $500.

• Reference

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions