Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBasset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France but Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) is originated from Belgium. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may grow 28 cm / 11 inches shorter than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael). Basset Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 12 kg / 26 pounds lesser than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael). Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) has almost same life span. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may have less litter size than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael). Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate Maintenance. But Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Working dog
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France
Belgium
Height Male:
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
60 - 66 cm
23 - 26 inches
Height Female:
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
56 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
25 - 30 kg
55 - 67 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
23 - 30 kg
50 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
6 - 10
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
Belgian Groenendael, Belgian Shepherd, AKC: Belgian Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Black with white mottling and some tan
Black
Coat:
short and smooth
Dense double coat
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

basset bleu de gascogneThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an old breed and also one of the most reserved of the Basset family. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, originating in the region of Gascony, France. At one time there were very few of these dogs and Alain Bourbon began doing something about this in the early 20th century, although he didn’t document his breeding practices . There are theories though and one was that he bred a few of the very first Basset Bleu de Gascognes with the Basset Saintongeois and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.

Today the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is rarely found anywhere beyond France’s borders and there are only a few clubs for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.

belgian shepherd dog groenendaelLooking much like a pitch black German Shepherd dog, the Belgian Shepherd is a beautiful looking dog. Their roots go back to the 1800s to Groenendael, Belgium. This is where they were bred by a certain Nicolas Rose in 1910. The Groenendael is one of four different Belgian Sheepdog varieties but the Groenendael is sometimes treated as a distinct breed.

They have always been used for their intelligence, serving for instance in the police force and being message carriers in war situations. Originally, Belgian Shepherds were used to herd livestock. It was in 1911 that the Groenendael was registered in the United States, and not much later the first Belgian Sheepdog Club of America formed. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1912.

Description

The Most Reserved of the Bassets

basset bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne today is a striking looking hound, and is the most reserved o the Basset breeds. When you look at him, their general appearance is large but not too heavy. Long of build, his height at the withers is about 30 – 38cm, and he weighs up to 18kg.

He has short legs, thick bones, long floppy ears and dark brown, sad eyes, but is still agile and able to get around quickly. This particular Basset has a short, smooth, dense coat which is black with a white mottled pattern and some tan marking around the feet and face. You’ll most times notice black patches over his ears and sides of his head and there will typically be a white blaze on his skull.

Gentle Expression, Gentle of Nature

The attractive Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of 6 Basset Hound breeds, and this one is an energetic, lively dog who possesses a great sense of smell. Easy to train, he slots in well with his human family, wanting to please them all the time. They just love his dark, sorrowful brown eyes and the gentle expression on his face. With his deep bark, he tries to talk to his family. He is fairly easy to train, and with socialization and training he makes an exceptional pet.

He Likes to Roam

Perhaps one aspect of the Basset family that doesn’t go down well with dog owners is their wandering nature. As a scenthound, he often gets the scent of something and wants to put his nose down and follow it. If you haven’t got a sturdy wall or fence around your property, he’ll just wander off.

Large, Strong and Well Proportioned

belgian shepherd dog groenendael puppy - descriptionWith his alert, bright brown eyes, the Groenendael, referred to often as the Belgian Sheepdog, has erect ears with a long, feathered tail. The straight, strong legs are also feathered. He is well proportioned, athletic and strong. He has a dense double coat, and this working dog’s coat is black, but you sometimes find some small white markings around his paws and muzzle. The size of the Groenendael is roughly 60-66cm at the withers with the females sometimes being slightly smaller. The weight of the dog is roughly 25–30 kilograms.

He’s a Social Dog who Craves Companionship

The Groenendael is an active, intelligent breed and training and socializing will be necessary to ensure he knows how to behave around his human family. He is a big, social dog and won’t do well when left alone day after day in the back yard. In fact he may even show signs of separation anxiety if you leave him indefinitely. He makes for an excellent family dog, just loving their companionship and he becomes very protective of them.

An Intelligent, Alert Breed

He is used to making use of his intelligence and therefore he will need mental stimulation as opposed to lying around all day. He gets on well with adults, children and other pets, but he needs to grow up with children and not be put among children when he is already an adult. He is loyal and loving to his human family, forming a deep bond, especially with just one member of the family.

Characteristics

basset bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThis smooth-coated breed with his low-set ears, his sad eyes, out-turned paws and gentle but intelligent pet make this dog an awesome, companionable pet. He is loyal, affectionate and devoted. They’re good with children and other pets, and can even make superb pets for older- or frail people who may lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

The Basset Bleu also sheds a bit less than their Basset Hound counterparts, although they do tend to shed throughout the year. He will require training, just like any dog really, but you don’t want to be harsh with training, as he is a gentle, sensitive dog.

Laid back, this dog which has always been an excellent hunter in days gone by, will make anyone a devoted, loyal friend.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael dog - characteristicsYour Belgian Shepherd is an intelligent, active, loyal companion for you. He is highly intelligent too, and will need the right owner who can meet his energetic needs. He therefore wouldn’t do well with in a small place where the owners are couch potatoes. He is a working dog and will require being kept busy.

Provide him with good food, look after that thick, lustrous coat of his, provide him with a warm, dry place to sleep and plenty of exercise, love and attention and he will turn out to be the wonderful pet that makes him such a popular breed.

Health Problems

basset bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsA great aspect with Basset Bleus is that they have very few health issues and are quite laid back. They can easily get to 14 years of age and older with good nutrition and exercise. Nothing is set in stone however, and every breed can suddenly develop health problems.

Dogs like this with a deep chest can be prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat. This is a condition not to be taken lightly as it can be life threatening. Gastric dilatation volvulus means twisted stomach because of excessive gas or flatulence and your dog will require prompt treatment.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael puppies - health problemsThe Belgian Groenendael is a healthy, strong breed with no major health problems and with an average lifespan of 12-14 years.

As with every dog breed, there will be some health issues to be aware of. Skin allergies, epilepsy, eye problems and hip- and joint dysplasia are some areas to look out for

Dental disease for instance, is a common problem with pets, and your Belgian Shepherd can have serious problems with their teeth. Tartar build-up on the teeth ca take you down a trail of infections and gum disease. If you don’t want to make use of a special canine toothbrush and toothpaste, your vet will do it for you.

Your Groenendael will also be susceptible to ticks, fleas and bacterial and viral infections. As a puppy of 6 – 8 weeks, vaccinations for parvo, rabies, and distemper will be necessary. You’ll also need to be generally watching your pet’s health and to get him to the vet when he shows signs of being run-down and ill.

Caring The Pet

Coat

basset bleu de gascogne dogs - caringWith his short coat, shedding isn’t a huge issue with the Basset Bleu. He sheds seasonally and then you will definitely have to brush him at least twice a week to get rid of all that loose hair.

Slobbering

Some dog owners don’t get used to the slobbering of these dogs. Certainly, you will need to change his drinking water often because of this slobbering of his. It can result in the water containing viruses and bacteria which can cause infections in your dog.

Exercise

These dogs tend to be lazy at home, so it will be up to you to see that he gets a good quota of exercise to prevent him becoming fat and prone to more illnesses. The backs, especially with added weight, can cause problems and this kind of dog shouldn’t be encouraged to jump off beds and couches.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael dogs - caringThe Groenendael has a double coat and because it is also fairly long, his black coat may well be high maintenance and brushing every 2nd day will be necessary to keep the coat unmatted and to also get rid of those loose hairs. In fact, heavy shedding is part of this breed’s life and while heavy shedding happens twice a year, light shedding continues throughout the year. Sometimes is may be necessary to send him to a dog grooming parlour to snip his hair and to wash it.

Other care routines to watch for -

A healthy, quality diet it absolutely imperative. Speak to your vet about the best kind of wet- or dry food suited to an energetic breed like this and appropriate to his age. You need to include raw meat into your pets diet every day now and then to avoid skin problems. Always ensure a bowl of clean, cool water is available, The bowl will need to be washed out every other day.

make sure his ears are cleaned. Once again you have to be careful when prodding in a dog’s ear and your veterinarian will show you how.

keep him well exercised with long walks and ball games.

Comparison with other breeds

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  3. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
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  17. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
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  25. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison