Huntaway vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Huntaway vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBasset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France but Huntaway is originated from New Zealand. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may grow 28 cm / 11 inches shorter than Huntaway. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 28 kg / 61 pounds lesser than Huntaway. Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Huntaway has almost same life span. Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Huntaway has almost same litter size. Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate Maintenance. But Huntaway requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Herding dogs
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France
New Zealand
Height Male:
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
Height Female:
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
52 - 62 cm
20 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
25 - 46 kg
55 - 102 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
20 - 35 kg
44 - 78 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
5 - 7
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
New Zealand Huntaway, New Zealand Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Black with white mottling and some tan
commonly black and tan, tricolour, variable
Coat:
short and smooth
smooth or rough
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Responsive, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low 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.

huntawayThe Huntaway or New Zealand Huntaway is a herding dog that originated in the New Zealand sheep country. Their main purpose is to drive sheep and they are not an old breed. They were developed late in the 19th century for their working skills. The only real criteria was that they were black and tan. A dog must win a trial in order to be placed in the New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association studbook. They drive sheep mainly through their deep, loud voice.

In the New Zealand high country there was a need for a working dog with stamina, agility and intelligence to work the sheep as a drover (herder). The dog had to be able to handle rough, steep land and work with very large groups of sheep. The sheer area of land that the sheep graze and the dog would have to cover, demanded that this dog have stamina and strength to cover large pasture land and work for days if necessary. Before this the shepherds had used British sheepdogs but they preferred dogs that barked while working. So they bred the British Sheepdogs with Collies, Border Collies, Labrador, Rottweiler, Doberman and other barking sheepdogs to create the Huntaway. In addition to the bark, they bred for stamina and size.

They were participating in field trails in 1870 and ads for them were seen in newspapers by 1884. They became a separate breed in the 20th century. Today they are spreading around the world and are becoming very popular. It is not recommended that they be kept as pets however, since they are true working dogs.

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.

huntaway puppy - descriptionThe Huntaway is a large dog with a deep chest and a black and tan coat. They are strong, big and muscular with voices to match. They herd, head, work the sheep in pastures and force them into pens. They are bred to have that big authoritative, deep bark. They do not yap. Their bodies are well proportioned but longer than high. They have well - padded feet and a deep chest for stamina, along with strong legs and body that allows them to run fast and change directions at will.

The tail of a Huntaway if long, while their heads are shaped like blocks while the muzzle is long and the nose is black. They have dark, round eyes and long ears. An unusually attractive dog, they have dense fur with fringe on the tail and chest. There is characteristics a very large variety in the in the way the breed looks from one dog to the next. Thus they do not participate in confirmation events, as the standard is based on working characteristics rather than appearance guidelines. They are more a “class” than a “breed”.

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.

Children friendliness

huntaway dog - characteristicsThey are very good with children and love to play with them.

Special talents

Stamina, speed and independence

Adaptability

Not really. Don’t do well in small spaces. Better off in the country.

Learning ability

Very intelligent, quick learner, loves learning new things.

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.

huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is a pretty healthy breed, developed as it was from the sheepdogs and collies. They still face some inherited issues such as:

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis
  • Cancer of bone – life threatening
  • Ear Infections – long eared dogs are prone to infections
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MPS IIIA) – rare metabolic issue can cause neurological problems.
  • Dilated Caridomyopathy (DCM) – enlarged heart can cause heart failure

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.

Feeding the Puppy

huntaway dogs - caringIf you are not using your Huntaway to herd, then feed a medium formula not a high protein, high calorie formula. Feed 3-4 times a day and 1-2 cups.

Feeding the adult

3 cups per day feeding twice a day high quality medium calorie food.

Points for Good Health

Exceptional stamina

Games and Exercises

This herding breed has a great need of mental and physical stimulation. They were born to herd and to do so over vast tracts of land in challenging conditions. They need to be challenged. They need daily exercise at a very high level. A Run them every day or take them on a couple of long walks. They will excel in field trials, Barnhunt, agility and rescue. They love to learn.

Comparison with other breeds

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  26. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison