Basset Bleu de Gascogne

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• French scent hound with a striking blue‑mottled coat and long, low body that turns heads wherever it goes
• Bred for pack hunting, so usually friendly with other dogs and strongly driven to follow scent trails
• Calm and gentle indoors when exercised properly, but surprisingly tireless and determined outdoors
• Deep, melodious voice that carries over long distances, appreciated by hunters but a consideration for neighbors
• Still relatively rare outside France, which helps preserve type and working ability but can make puppies harder to find

Appearance & Coat

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a low‑to‑the‑ground, solidly built scent hound that combines a classic Basset outline with the elegant coloring of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. At first glance many people notice the long ears, soulful eyes, and short legs, but a closer look reveals a very functional hunting dog created to follow scent for hours over rough terrain.

Males typically stand around 34 to 38 centimeters at the withers, with females usually slightly smaller. Despite their modest height, they are not small dogs in terms of substance. The body is long and well muscled, with a deep chest that allows good lung capacity. The back should feel firm and strong when you run your hand along it, not weak or swaying. Legs are short but sturdy, with slightly curved forelegs and powerful hindquarters that help the dog move smoothly over long distances. When seen in motion, a good Basset Bleu de Gascogne should have an easy, efficient gait rather than a clumsy shuffle.

One of the breed’s most distinctive features is its coat color. The coat is short, dense, and close lying to the body, giving the dog a clean, sleek outline. The color is described as blue, which actually comes from a mixture of white hairs and black hairs that create a mottled or roaned effect. Over this blue background you will typically see black patches and tan markings. Tan points can appear above the eyes like small “eyebrows,” on the cheeks, inside the ears, on the legs, and under the tail. The combination of blue roan, black patches, and warm tan makes the Basset Bleu de Gascogne stand out from other Basset‑type breeds.

Practical coat care is refreshingly simple, which is one reason many families enjoy living with this breed. The short coat only needs regular brushing to stay healthy and tidy. A soft bristle brush, rubber grooming mitt, or grooming glove once or twice a week is usually enough to remove loose hair and keep the skin ventilated. During seasonal shedding, brushing more often will help control hair around the home. Bathing can be done as needed, often only every couple of months, unless the dog rolls in something unpleasant on a walk.

One area that requires special attention is the long, pendulous ears. Because airflow is limited inside the ear, wax and moisture can build up. A weekly check, combined with gentle cleaning using a dog‑safe ear cleaner when needed, helps prevent infections. Similarly, the loose skin around the lips and neck can trap moisture and food. Wiping the face folds after meals or wet walks is a simple habit that keeps the skin healthy and odours under control.

The nails of a Basset Bleu de Gascogne also deserve regular care. Their heavy body weight rests on short legs and feet, so overgrown nails can affect gait and comfort. Trimming every few weeks, or whenever you hear nails clicking loudly on hard floors, keeps the dog moving freely. While the coat itself is low maintenance, paying attention to ears, skin folds, and nails will keep this handsome hound looking and feeling his best.

Temperament & Personality

Living with a Basset Bleu de Gascogne means sharing your life with a dog that is both gentle companion and serious hunter. In the home they are usually affectionate, calm, and deeply attached to their people. Many owners describe them as “shadow dogs” that like to lie at your feet, follow you from room to room, and lean in for quiet cuddles on the sofa. Their expression is typically soft and thoughtful, and they often use those expressive eyes to ask for another scratch behind the ears.

This breed was developed to work in packs, often with many other hounds, so natural sociability is part of its character. With good early socialization, most Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs are friendly or at least polite with other dogs. They tend to enjoy canine company, whether in the same household or on walks. If you already have another dog and are considering adding a Basset Bleu de Gascogne, this pack background can be a real advantage, as they usually adapt well to multi‑dog homes.

With families and children, they generally show a patient and tolerant nature. Their calm demeanor suits a family setting, and many are happy to play gently with respectful children, then settle down for a nap nearby. As with any breed, supervision is important, especially with younger children who might pull ears or climb on the dog. Teaching children to treat the dog kindly and giving the dog a safe place to retreat when tired will encourage a harmonious relationship. Because Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs can be sensitive, harsh voices or rough play can worry them, so a household with a kind, consistent atmosphere suits them best.

When it comes to other pets, there are two sides to consider. On the one hand, this is a scent hound with a strong instinct to track and follow game. On the other hand, many individuals live peacefully with cats and even smaller animals if they are introduced carefully and from a young age. The key is management and training. A dog that has learned from puppyhood that the family cat is part of the pack is much more likely to behave gently. It is still wise to supervise interactions and never forget that the hunting instinct is part of the breed’s nature.

One of the biggest temperament traits new owners must understand is the independent streak that comes from their working background. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is highly focused on scent and often more interested in following a trail than checking back with the handler. This does not mean they are stubborn in a human sense, but rather that their priorities are different. A delicious scent on the ground can feel more urgent to them than your call from across the field. For some owners this independence can be a challenge, especially if they expect instant obedience. With the right approach and a good sense of humour, it can also be part of the breed’s charm.

Another notable characteristic is their voice. Like many hounds, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a deep, musical bay. It is an impressive sound in the forest, designed to carry over long distances so hunters know where the dog is. In a suburban neighbourhood, however, it can be less welcome. Most individuals do not bark constantly, but they will use their voice to announce visitors, respond to environmental noises, or express excitement during play. Early training to teach a “quiet” cue and good daily exercise will help keep vocalization at a manageable level.

Overall, the temperament of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne combines gentleness, steady affection, and a strong working drive. They are usually not nervous or aggressive, but they do need understanding owners who appreciate both the loving family side and the determined hunter side of their personality.

Training & Exercise

Training a Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a rewarding experience when approached in the right spirit. These dogs are intelligent and learn well, but they are guided strongly by their nose and can be easily distracted by scent. Instead of asking, “Is this dog stubborn?” it is more accurate to ask, “Is my training more interesting than the smells on the ground?” The answer often lies in the methods and rewards you choose.

Positive reinforcement is essential for this breed. They respond best to calm, patient handling and clear, consistent cues. Harsh corrections or shouting tend to make them either confused or shut down, especially because many Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs are emotionally sensitive. Using food rewards is usually very effective, as most hounds love to eat. Small, tasty treats that are easy to chew and swallow quickly work well for reinforcing behavior like coming when called, walking on a loose lead, or waiting politely before going through a door.

Short, varied training sessions are more productive than long, repetitive drills. Their nose and mind can tire from too much repetition, and boredom often leads to wandering attention. Instead of a single 30‑minute session, try three sessions of 5 to 10 minutes sprinkled throughout the day. Practicing basic cues such as “sit,” “down,” “wait,” “come,” and “leave it” in different locations and mild distractions helps your Basset Bleu de Gascogne learn to generalize those skills.

Recall training deserves special attention. A hound that has found an interesting scent may ignore even a well‑learned recall cue, so it is vital to build this skill carefully and never give your dog more freedom than his training can handle. Many owners find that a long training line, such as a 10 or 15 meter line attached to a harness, provides a good balance between safety and freedom. In open areas you can let your Basset Bleu de Gascogne follow scents while still being able to guide him if needed. Over time, with consistent practice and good rewards for returning, recall can improve significantly, though many owners still choose to keep their dogs on a lead or long line in unfenced areas.

In terms of exercise, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires more activity than some people expect from a short‑legged breed. While they can be calm at home, outdoors they have plenty of stamina. A daily routine should include at least one reasonably long walk, ideally 45 to 60 minutes, combined with shorter outings and opportunities to sniff. For many individuals, 1.5 to 2 hours of mixed activity per day is a good starting point. They are not built for high‑impact sports such as intense agility, but they thrive on steady, moderate exercise.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical. Scent work is a natural fit for this breed and can be as simple or as structured as you like. Some ideas include:

• Hiding treats in the garden or around a room and encouraging the dog to “find it”
• Using snuffle mats or puzzle feeders at mealtimes
• Laying short scent trails with a piece of food dragged along the ground and a reward at the end

These activities harness the dog’s primary talent, provide mental satisfaction, and help tire them out in a calm way. You can also teach fun tricks, basic obedience, or even join a local scent detection or tracking class if available.

For owners who enjoy outdoor sports, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can be a good partner for hiking on safe trails, provided the terrain is suitable for short legs and you protect them from overexertion in hot weather. Remember that their long back and relatively heavy body mean you should avoid regular stair climbing, jumping from heights, or running next to a bicycle for long distances. Think about longevity and joint health when planning activities, especially once your dog is fully grown.

Overall, success with training and exercise for this breed relies on three things: understanding the power of their nose, using motivation instead of force, and providing consistent, enjoyable outlets for their energy and instincts. When these needs are met, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne becomes a delightful and relatively easy companion at home.

Health

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is generally considered a robust working hound, but like all breeds it has certain health considerations that prospective owners should keep in mind. Responsible breeders aim to produce dogs with sound structure, good stamina, and stable temperaments, yet no dog is completely free from the possibility of illness or injury.

Because of their long body and short legs, one of the main structural concerns is the spine. While the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is not identical to some other long‑backed breeds in terms of risk, it is still sensible to take care with activities that place strain on the back. Repeated jumping on and off furniture, frequent stair climbing, or sudden twisting movements can increase the chance of back problems. Using ramps for getting in and out of cars, teaching the dog to use steps instead of leaping off sofas, and maintaining a healthy body weight are simple measures that support spinal health.

Joint health is another focus area. The breed can be prone to issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, conditions where the joint does not form correctly and can lead to pain or arthritis over time. Reputable breeders often have breeding dogs assessed through hip and elbow scoring schemes recommended by national kennel clubs. When you are looking for a puppy, asking about these results is an important part of choosing a responsible breeder. In a growing puppy, it is also wise to avoid excessive high‑impact exercise, long runs, or rough play on slippery surfaces, as these can stress developing joints.

Ear health is a very practical everyday concern. The long, floppy ears that are so attractive can trap moisture and reduce airflow, which makes them more vulnerable to infections. Signs of trouble can include redness, bad smell, shaking of the head, or scratching at the ears. Regular inspection, gentle cleaning when needed, and prompt veterinary attention at the first sign of infection help keep ears comfortable and healthy.

Skin and coat are generally low maintenance, but folds around the lips and neck can sometimes become irritated, especially if they stay damp after drinking or walks in wet weather. Wiping these areas dry and monitoring for redness or odour will usually be enough to prevent skin problems. Occasionally, individuals can develop allergies or sensitive skin, which might show as itching, ear problems, or recurrent hot spots. In such cases, working with a veterinarian to identify triggers and adjust diet or environment makes a big difference.

As with many medium‑sized dogs, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can face risks of eye issues, although it is not among the most heavily affected breeds. Responsible breeders may screen breeding stock for hereditary eye conditions recommended by their national kennel club or breed club. Prospective owners can ask if parents have current eye certificates or have been examined by veterinary ophthalmologists.

A healthy weight is essential. Because these dogs love food and have relatively short legs, extra kilos put more strain on joints, spine, and internal organs. You should always be able to feel, but not sharply see, your dog’s ribs and observe a slight waist when viewed from above. Measuring food rather than “eyeballing,” limiting high‑calorie treats, and ensuring regular exercise all contribute to a long, comfortable life.

In terms of lifespan, many Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs live around 11 to 13 years, and some reach older ages with good care. Routine veterinary check‑ups, at least once a year for adults and more often for seniors, allow early detection of issues such as dental disease, heart murmurs, or kidney problems. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care are part of standard health maintenance. Brushing teeth several times per week and offering suitable chews will help preserve oral health, which is closely linked to overall wellbeing.

Potential owners are encouraged to discuss health questions with breeders, including:

• What health tests have been performed on the parents
• Whether there have been any known issues in the family line
• How the breeder supports new owners if health problems arise

By choosing a puppy from health‑conscious lines and providing sensible daily care, you greatly increase the chances that your Basset Bleu de Gascogne will enjoy a long, active, and happy life.

History & Origins

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is part of a distinguished family of French hounds that trace their roots back many centuries. To understand this breed, it helps to picture the landscapes and hunting traditions of southwestern France, particularly the historic region of Gascony. This area, with its forests, rolling hills, and varied game, demanded dogs that could follow scent tirelessly and work closely with human hunters on foot.

The Bleu de Gascogne lineage is believed to descend from old French hounds that hunted large game such as deer and wild boar. These dogs were known for their powerful noses, deep voices, and characteristic blue‑mottled coats. Over time, hunters recognized the need for a lower, slower hound that could work more closely with them and was easier to follow on foot, rather than on horseback. From this practical requirement grew the development of shorter‑legged “basset” versions of established hound types.

The word “basset” itself comes from the French word “bas,” meaning low. Several regional basset breeds developed in France, each reflecting the game, terrain, and preferences of local hunters. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is believed to be a shortened version of the larger Grand Bleu de Gascogne, preserving its coat color and scenting ability while adapting the body shape for a different style of hunting. There were periods when these dogs became rare, particularly as hunting habits changed and industrialization altered rural life.

At various points in the 19th and 20th centuries, dedicated enthusiasts worked to preserve and standardize the breed. They selected for correct color, sound working structure, and the typical temperament of a pack hound that was both determined on scent and gentle with people. Breed standards were created and refined, and the Basset Bleu de Gascogne gained official recognition from kennel clubs and cynological organizations. These standards describe not only the general appearance, such as size and coat color, but also the movement and character that make the breed effective in the field.

Historically, the breed was used primarily to hunt hare and rabbit, although it could also be employed on other small game. Its steady pace and excellent nose allowed hunters to keep up, while the dog’s voice provided constant communication about the progress of the hunt. Often working in packs, Basset Bleu de Gascogne hounds learned to cooperate closely with one another, which shaped their sociable nature.

In more recent decades, as hunting has declined or changed form in many regions, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne has slowly found a place as a companion dog while still retaining its working instincts in parts of France and elsewhere. Hunters who value traditional hound work continue to use the breed, sometimes in combination with other hounds, for tracking and driving game. At the same time, a growing number of families appreciate the breed for its moderate size, affectionate temperament, and distinctive look.

Outside its homeland, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne remains relatively rare compared with more common hounds or companion breeds. This rarity has both advantages and challenges. On one hand, it has helped maintain the breed’s original purpose and type, with many lines still strongly oriented toward functional conformation and scenting ability. On the other hand, prospective owners in other countries may need to be patient, research carefully, and sometimes join waiting lists to obtain a well‑bred puppy.

Today, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne stands as a living link to France’s rich hunting heritage, blending ancient bloodlines with the lives of modern dog lovers. Whether trailing scent across a misty field or sleeping contentedly at a family’s feet, the breed carries forward a history shaped by practical needs, regional culture, and the dedication of breeders who value both form and function.

Living with the Breed

Bringing a Basset Bleu de Gascogne into your home is both a joy and a commitment. This is not a high‑maintenance dog in terms of grooming, but it does have particular needs in exercise, training, and companionship that prospective owners should consider carefully.

Daily life with this breed usually has a calm rhythm indoors and more energy outdoors. In the house, a well exercised Basset Bleu de Gascogne is likely to choose a soft bed, a corner of the sofa, or a spot near your feet to rest. They enjoy routine and feel secure when they know roughly what to expect each day. A typical schedule might include a morning walk with time to sniff, periods of rest while the family works or studies, some interactive play or training in the afternoon, and another outing in the evening.

Because they are social dogs, they are not ideally suited to long hours of isolation. A Basset Bleu de Gascogne that is left alone for many hours every day, especially without prior training to cope with solitude, may become vocal, anxious, or destructive. If your lifestyle involves full‑time work outside the home, it is helpful to arrange:

• A dog walker or neighbour to provide a midday visit
• Doggy day care a few times per week, if your dog enjoys other dogs
• Staggered working hours within the household so the dog has more company

Teaching alone time gradually from puppyhood, with short separations that build up slowly, can help prevent separation issues later.

From a financial perspective, owning a Basset Bleu de Gascogne involves ongoing costs beyond the initial purchase price. Annual expenses commonly include quality food, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, insurance, grooming supplies, training classes, and equipment replacement. While exact amounts vary by country and lifestyle, many owners find that the yearly cost of a medium‑sized dog can be significant, and planning a budget is wise.

Useful equipment for living comfortably with this breed includes:

• A sturdy, well fitting harness that avoids pressure on the neck, especially important for a dog that loves to pull toward scents
• A strong lead, and optionally a long training line for safe exploration
• A comfortable, supportive bed that protects joints and back
• Food and water bowls that are stable and at a suitable height to reduce strain on the neck
• Nail clippers or a plan for regular professional nail trimming
• Ear cleaning solution and soft cotton pads for routine ear care
• Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or treat toys that provide mental enrichment

Secure fencing is very important. As a scent hound, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can be tempted to follow its nose out of the garden if there is an escape route. A safe outdoor space with dog‑proof fencing allows them to enjoy fresh air without constant supervision. Gates should close securely, and any gaps under fences should be filled, as a determined hound can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces when motivated by a scent.

Inside the home, you may want to manage stair access to protect the dog’s back. Using baby gates to block steep staircases, especially while the dog is young or in its senior years, is a helpful precaution. Teaching your dog to wait for you on stairs and to move calmly rather than charging up and down reduces the risk of slips and injuries.

Households that are particularly noise sensitive or live in apartments with thin walls should plan ahead for managing the breed’s voice. While not all Basset Bleu de Gascogne individuals are frequent barkers, most will vocalize at times. Early training on a “quiet” cue, rewarding calm behaviour, and ensuring your dog is not bored or under exercised will help keep barking within reasonable limits. Speaking openly with neighbours and being considerate about when the dog is in the garden can also maintain good relations.

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne can adapt to various living environments, from rural homes with access to fields and forests to city apartments, provided its exercise and mental needs are met. City living will require more effort from the owner to provide varied walks, safe sniffing opportunities, and off‑lead time in secure areas or on a long line. Rural living offers natural enrichment, but owners still need to maintain training and supervise around wildlife and livestock.

For new owners, one of the greatest rewards of living with this breed is the deep bond that often forms. They tend to develop strong attachments to their family and are happiest when included in daily activities, whether that is watching television, gardening, or visiting friends. Their sensitive nature means they respond well to gentle affection and consistent guidance. If you appreciate a dog that is neither hyperactive nor lazy, that has real working roots yet can relax peacefully at home, and you are prepared to invest time in training and secure management, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne can be a loyal, charming companion for many years.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of temperament does the Basset Bleu de Gascogne typically have at home and on walks?

This breed is usually calm, gentle and affectionate at home, but becomes focused and determined when following scents outdoors. They tend to be friendly with people and other dogs, yet can be independent, which may make recall and off‑lead control challenging without consistent training.

How much exercise does a Basset Bleu de Gascogne really need, given its short legs?

Despite the short, heavy build, this is an active scenthound that needs at least one to two hours of varied exercise and sniffing opportunities daily. Long, steady walks and scent games are more suitable than intense running or jumping, which can stress the back and joints.

Are Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs good for first‑time owners?

They can suit a committed first‑time owner who is prepared for a strong hunting instinct and independent mindset. Their gentle nature is an advantage, but consistent training, secure fencing and patience with scent‑driven distractions are essential.

What health problems are Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs prone to?

Common concerns include ear infections due to long, low‑set ears, back strain linked to their elongated body and short legs, and possible joint issues like hip or elbow dysplasia. Keeping them lean, avoiding excessive jumping and maintaining regular vet and ear checks can reduce many risks.

How hard is it to train a Basset Bleu de Gascogne and will it ever have reliable recall?

They are intelligent and can learn well, but their scenthound nature often makes following a trail more rewarding than listening to commands. Early training with high‑value rewards, long‑line practice and safe enclosed spaces improves recall, but many will never be fully reliable off lead in open areas with wildlife.

Does the Basset Bleu de Gascogne bark or howl a lot compared with other breeds?

This breed has a deep, melodious voice and may bay or howl when excited, left alone too long or when following a scent. With training and enough exercise and mental stimulation, most can be managed in a household setting, but they are not typically a silent dog.

What grooming does the Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s short blue‑mottled coat require?

The short coat is low maintenance and usually only needs a weekly brush to remove loose hair and keep the skin healthy. Ear care is more demanding than coat care, with regular cleaning and inspection needed to help prevent infections in the long, folded ears.

Is a Basset Bleu de Gascogne suitable for apartment living?

They can live in an apartment if given sufficient daily exercise and mental activity, plus access to safe outdoor areas for sniffing and exploring. However, their voice, need to follow scents and tendency to dislike long periods of solitude may be challenging in close quarters without careful management.

How well do Basset Bleu de Gascogne dogs get along with children and other pets?

They are generally sociable, tolerant and gentle with respectful children, especially when raised with them. They usually get on well with other dogs, but smaller pets may trigger their hunting instinct, so supervision and careful introductions are recommended.

What makes the Basset Bleu de Gascogne different from other Basset‑type hounds?

This breed is lighter and more athletic than the Basset Hound and carries a distinctive blue‑ticked coat pattern from its Gascogne heritage. It was developed primarily as a pack hunting dog for small game, which contributes to its strong scent drive, stamina and typically sociable nature with other dogs.

Sources

• Société Centrale Canine (France)
• The Kennel Club (United Kingdom)
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• Norwegian Kennel Club
• Swedish Kennel Club