Basset Hound or Basset Bleu de Gascogne: Which suits you best?
Basset Hounds have been beloved family pets in the UK for many years. However, if you're considering similar breeds, you might meet the Basset Hound puppies and the charming Basset Bleu de Gascogne, a French hound originally bred for hunting alongside humans. This article offers a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle better.
Origins and History
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is believed to have been developed by French monks as far back as the Middle Ages, sharing ancestry with several French Basset types. Their exceptional scenting abilities made them prized hunting dogs. The breed arrived in Britain around the reign of King James IV of Scotland and has since become a unique breed cherished as a family companion and scent hound.
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
Dating back to the 14th century, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne puppies descend from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne. Their origins are less clearly defined, with theories suggesting either crossbreeding or natural breed development. This breed boasts stamina and was bred to maintain pace within a hunting group, albeit at a slower speed.
Temperament and Personality
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are known for their tenacious yet placid disposition. They are affectionate, loving, and loyal, making them excellent family pets. While generally non-aggressive, they can exhibit a stubborn streak typical of hounds. This means they are best suited to owners familiar with their independent nature. Bassets thrive on companionship—whether human or canine—and enjoy being kept mentally and physically stimulated.
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
These hounds are placid, laid-back, gentle, and intelligent. They form strong attachments and are incredibly loyal. Suitable for quieter households or individuals, they enjoy moderate daily exercise but risk becoming sedentary without it. Like their Basset cousins, they have a stubborn side, so training requires consistency and patience. In the right hands, they’re affectionate and gentle family members.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Both breeds require regular daily exercise of about 40 to 60 minutes to stay fit and healthy. The Basset Hound prefers moderate activity with periods of rest, while the Basset Bleu de Gascogne enjoys a bit more play and mental stimulation, reflecting its hunting heritage. Off-lead roaming for Basset Hounds should only be in safe, enclosed environments.
Shedding and Grooming
Basset Hounds have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately throughout the year, especially during spring and autumn. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne sports a short, dense coat with unique black mottling on a white base that gives a bluish appearance. They shed slightly less than Basset Hounds but also require regular grooming, especially during seasonal coat changes.
Training Tips and Challenges
Basset Hound
While intelligent, Basset Hounds are independent thinkers who do tasks at their own pace. Early and consistent training is important, especially teaching reliable recall due to their strong scent-driven distractions. Positive reinforcement and patience are key, as stubborn tendencies can slow progress.
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
Training requires even greater dedication with this sensitive breed. They respond poorly to harsh corrections and benefit from gentle, consistent guidance. Scent-driven behaviour means distractions are frequent, so engaging training sessions that incorporate their natural instincts can be highly effective.
Compatibility with Children and Pets
Both breeds are well-known for their affability with children, making them great family companions. Proper early socialisation allows them to get on well with other dogs and pets. Caution is advised with smaller animals; however, many Bassets grow up happily alongside family cats.
Coat Colours
Basset Hound
- Tri-colour: black, white, and tan
- Bi-colour: lemon and white
- Other recognised hound colours
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
- Black spots and mottling on a white base, resulting in a blue-hued coat
Health and Life Expectancy
Basset Hound
- Potential hereditary issues include entropion, ectropion, intervertebral disc problems, elbow dysplasia, malassezia (skin infections), bloat, and osteochondrodysplasia (dwarfism)
With proper care, their average lifespan is 11 to 12 years.
Basset Bleu de Gascogne
- Generally robust with fewer hereditary issues, primarily ear problems and risk of bloat
Their average lifespan extends slightly longer, between 12 and 14 years with good care.
Where to Find and How to Buy
If you’re considering welcoming a Basset Hound or a Basset Bleu de Gascogne into your home, seeking puppies from reputable Basset Hound breeders or trusted breeders of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is essential. Responsible breeders ensure health testing, socialisation, and proper early care, promoting a healthy start to your new companion’s life.
Conclusion: Which Breed is Best for You?
Choosing between the Basset Hound and the Basset Bleu de Gascogne boils down to your lifestyle and preferences:
- If you seek a calm, laid-back dog suited to a quieter home with moderate activity, the Basset Hound is an excellent choice.
- If you prefer a lively, affectionate, and slightly more energetic companion who enjoys scent work and mental challenge, the Basset Bleu de Gascogne might be ideal.
Both breeds require patience during training and thrive with loving, consistent care. By understanding their needs and temperament, you can select a loyal companion that fits your family perfectly.
