Basset Bleu de Gascogne

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a lively, active, and agile dog who hails from France. He’s one of six types of bassets (a reference to their short stature) hounds. As befits a member of the hound family, he has an excellent sense of smell and can often be found questing with his nose to the ground. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne enjoys hunting on his own or as part of a pack.

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is often mistaken for its cousin, the Basset Hound. However, it is much rarer breed with only a small number being registered by the Kennel Club. This dog originated in France as a slow-and-steady type of hunting dog that hunters could keep pace on foot with. Today’s Basset Bleu has retained many of these same characteristics including a strong prey drive and an incredible sense of smell which can track scent trails several days old.

The is a great pet for people of all ages. It is usually kept in packs, so it is very social and easygoing around other dogs. It bonding closely with its owners and loves to play. Even though it isn’t fast, plenty of exercise is a must.

The Basset Bleu is distinguishable from the Basset Hound by his lighter build, skin that more tightly to the body, and legs that appear slightly longer. In height, he reaches a maximum of 15 inches at the shoulder rather than the 14 inches specified in the Basset Hound standard.

The Basset Blue get its name from the unusual black-and-white coat that gives a slate blue effect. The standard coat usually has big black patches with tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks and lips, inside of the ears, down their legs and beneath their tail. Some have a white blaze on top of their head that may include an oval black spot in the center.

The Basset Bleu has a sleek, long head with very long ears that fold inward. The ears help the Basset Bleu smell better by bringing scent up to the nose.

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is prone to loving the company of his people, whether it be inside or outside. However, he adapts quicker and easier in homes where outdoor activities are a daily thing; This includes living with people who take him hunting or competing against him in dog sports such as nose workor tracking. With the right socialization techniques and supervision from an early age, he generally does well around children of any age due to his medium size and relaxed personality.