The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Hound

Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Wiry scenthound with bright persistence

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Exercise
Medium
Mental stimulation
Medium
Trainability
Medium
Vocality
High
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
13–16 years
Body weight
23–39 lb
Height
13–16 in
Apartment suitability
Can Adapt

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Enjoy sniff-first walks where stopping is normal
  • Like games that use the nose and curiosity

Not ideal

  • Need a consistently quiet home with close neighbors
  • Want brisk walks with minimal stopping

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Cheerful, busy, and scent-driven, with a “one more sniff” stubbornness in a compact body. Often playful but persistent.

Handling & social style

Friendly and confident, sometimes wiggly about boundaries. Consistent rules and upbeat training keep them from running the show.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Compact, upbeat, and stubborn in classic hound fashion—curious and friendly, with a strong nose that wants to lead the schedule.

Environment & space

Smaller homes can work well if daily sniff walks are non-negotiable and you’re realistic about recall outside fenced areas.

Daily routine

Consistent “sniff permission” walks, short training games for focus, and a bit of playful exploration to satisfy the hound brain.

Health sensitivities

Ear care and weight management are practical priorities; steady fitness supports long-term comfort.

Grooming / coat

Wiry coat with moderate upkeep—brushing and occasional stripping/trimming keeps it comfortable.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Brittany, France

Background

Developed in France’s Brittany region as a small scent hound for rabbits, this breed was made to push through brush and keep trailing close to the ground. The wiry coat matches that rough, outdoorsy job. In everyday life, they’re often upbeat and busy, and walks tend to turn into “sniff-first adventures” by default.