Types of Basset Hounds

People looking for a Basset for a pet have six types of Basset breeds to choose from, including the Basset Hound. All of these hounds originate from France. The hounds are short in stature and many of them make good hunting companions. All of the breeds have unique personalities, but the one thing they share in common is their senstive noses.

  1. The Basset Hound

    • The Basset Hound is a powerful little dog. This breed is well built, has a long torso, short legs and long ears. In earlier times, after the French Revolution, this type of dog was used on hunting trips. Their sensitive noses allow them to pick up on scents quickly, making them especially talented at pursuing rabbits and hares. Basset Hounds are generally friendly and good-natured dogs. They get along well with other dogs, pets and children. They are usually very calm. Because they have a short, hard coat, minimal grooming is required. Their life expectancy is 8 to 12 years.

    The Basset Artesian Normand

    • The Basset Artesian Normand breed was recognized in 1911. The breed looks similar to the Basset Hound, but weighs much less. This hound is brave, determined, courageous and headstrong when used on hunting trips. They are gentle with children and other breeds. If you associate the Basset Artesian Normand to other pets at a young age, he will get along with them just fine. These dogs are good-natured and obedient. Like the Basset Hound, minimal grooming is required because of their short coat. Their life expectancy is 13 to 15 years.

    The Basset Bleu de Gascogne

    • The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a well tempered, friendly breed recognized in 1991. This scenthound breed is used for hunting and as working dogs. They are quite active, agile and lively. Their coats are tricolor and like other breeds of Basset Hounds, their coats are short, so grooming is easy. Basset Bleu de Gascognes are friendly, affectionate and stable. They can live up to 12 to 14 years.

    The Basset Fauve de Bretagne

    • The Basset Fauve de Bretagne makes a great family pet, hunting and watch dog. They are loving, outgoing and happy. They associate well with children. They too, have a keen sense of smell, making them great hunting companions. Their coats are short, but very coarse. Grooming is easy. They should never have their coats trimmed. A professional must pluck their coat twice a year. They are expected to live as long as 9 to 10 years.

    The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

    • The Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is different in appearance from other hounds in that they have shaggy eyebrows, a beard and a mustache. This breed is friendly, smart and cheerful. They work well with other dogs, but should not usually be trusted with non-canine pets. Generally, being around children and strangers is no problem. These dogs strive for dominance and will assert themselves as the leader if allowed. Plenty of playtime, walks and toys will keep these dogs occupied and entertained. Because their coats are not as short as other hounds, a little more grooming may be necessary, but the requirements are still minimal. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen dogs can live more than 14 years.

    The Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen

    • The Grand Basset Griffon breed consists of devoted dogs that get along with and love children. They can be skeptical of strangers so they make great watch dogs. The dogs of this breed are smart and eager, but are also stubborn. They are loving, courageous and good-natured. They are naturally independent dogs. Training these dogs takes consistency along with a gentle hand. They only need a bath once they smell bad or are plainly dirty. Grooming consists of combing once a week and trimming their coat one to two times a year. This breed is taller than most hounds. Their life spans are generally around 12 years.