Appearance

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a long back and long ears that aid it in hunting by stirring up scents on the ground. They have strong muzzles and large brown eyes with a friendly expression. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne's short coat appears bluish because of the ticking (small groups of black hairs distributed throughout the white coat). The breed was developed with a mottled look to give the dogs protection from the region's strong sun. These dogs are short at the withers and are stocky and sturdy. They have a similar look to the Basset Hound, which is also a French breed.

History

This breed (whose name in English is the Blue Gascony Basset) was first recorded in the 14th century in the Basque region of Gascony in southwest France. Most fanciers agree that the breed came about as a result of selective breeding of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne, shortening the dog so that it could follow smaller prey under brush. ("Basset" is from the French word "basse," which means short or low.) This breed was popular for decades, but was almost extinct by the 20th century until a French breeding program was begun. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is still virtually unknown outside of France.