Braque Francais vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Braque Francais vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBoth Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais are originated from France. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may grow 31 cm / 12 inches shorter than Braque Francais. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 37 kg / 81 pounds lesser than Braque Francais. Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Braque Francais has almost same life span. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may have less litter size than Braque Francais. Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate Maintenance. But Braque Francais requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Sporting dog
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France
France
Height Male:
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
47 - 69 cm
18 - 28 inches
Height Female:
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
45 - 65 cm
17 - 26 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
20 - 55 kg
44 - 122 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
19 - 52 kg
41 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
3 - 10
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
French Pointing Dog -; Braque Francais, de Grande Taille
Colors Available:
Black with white mottling and some tan
brown, Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white. With or without ticking or roaning or tan marking
Coat:
short and smooth
thick
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, 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.

braque francaisBraque Francais was at first one general breed of hounds in the Gascognes and Pyrenees Mountains areas of France. The one breed became two. Known as the Braque Francais Gascognes and the Braque Francais Pyrenees - two separate breeds of very alike dogs. The Gascognes is a lot less common than his smaller brother. Not very much is known about the beginnings of these two strains of Braque Francais as the breed has been around since at least the 15th century. Because the Braque Francais was exported or taken to so many different countries in the 15th-18th centuries, a lot of the origins of the breeds were lost. A major bloodline search was The conducted in the 19th century and found that these were two very distinct breeds of dog.

It is known that France was the birthplace of this breed and it was developed because of a need for a tracker that could point, flush and retrieve. The Braque Francais Gascogne probably came from the south of France. It is related to the German Shorthair Pointer and the English Pointer as well. Having existed since the 15th century, he was the father of all pointing dogs in France. By the 17th century the breed had grown enough to be called the “old style Braque Francais”,

Though the origin of the breed is not known there are of course several theories about it. The most prevalent belief is that the Braque Francais Gascogne is a descendent of the Chien d’Oysel, a spaniel breed of medium size and white or brown with brown markings. The Chien d’Oysel is an ancient breed used for hunting prior to the 13th century. Hunters crossed the Chien with local dogs on a routine basis.

Braque Francais came out of these breedings. It was probably French Scent hounds that created the larger size of the Gascogne. This also increased the stamina and strength of the Gascogne as opposed to the Pyrenees. There was also a mixing in of the Grand Bleu De Gasgogne and the Petit Bleu De Gasgogne.

The other prominent theory is that this breed the Gasgogne was actually developed from the Portugese, Spanish and Italian pointers rather than the French dogs. These dogs originated not with the Chien d’Oysel but with the scent hounds. From these dogs came the Spanish and English Pointers. All that is truly known is that all of these types of dogs were present in Europe by the fifteenth century and were moved among countries and cross bred regularly. However in the part of France called the Central Pyrenees region and in a small southern part of France the original, old style Braque Francais was pure bred. This aspect of the breed contributed to the development of all of the French pointers and European shorthaired dogs. By the end of the 1800’s today’s breed was developed.

In 1850 the first Braque Francais breed club was established and in the breed standards for both dogs followed in 1880. They were then registered in the French Kennel Club and the International Kennel Club (FCI). The French Kennel Club does not allow dogs with any common ancestors in Generations 1-3 into the Club in order to keep out the practice of inbreeding. In Canada only the Gascogne is recognized and the United States’ United Kennel Club (UKC) recognizes both. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize either.

With most local regions and countries choosing their local dogs over other breeds, the Braque Francais Gascogne has become fairly rare outside of France where the breed was the most popular gun dog throughout the 1700’s. The Gascogne was mostly a dog of the hunting nobility because of its size and food needs. Following the French Revolution, the breed fell off dramatically, while the smaller Pyrenees continued to thrive. This was because in the Pyrenees Mountains and the Southwestern region of Gascony, the English Pointer never supplanted the Braque Francais.

The Second World War was brutal to the Braque Francais Gascognes and as it recovered it became much less common than its sister breed. Today it is found almost exclusively in France.

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.

braque francais puppy - descriptionThe Braque Francais Gascogne is a larger dog than the Pyrenees breed and is a very handsome dog. Both have a deep chest, a solid bodies, strong and slender legs and are well-proportioned. They have padded, round paws and a large brown head with floppy ears. The muzzle is a pointed block and he has a scissors bite, with a black nose and dark or amber eyes. The eyes are very expressive and round. The tail can be straight and long, or it can be docked. They are tall and athletic.

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.

braque francais dog - characteristicsThis is a working breed, but they are nevertheless friendly and loyal to their families. They want to please their people and are usually docile. They love kids and are good as a first ever dog. They are friendly and even-tempered. They tolerate people they do not know but can be shy and are not guard dogs. instead they are loving, affectionate and people oriented. They need to be with their families and never left outside alone. They can develop separation anxiety.

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.

braque francais puppies - health problemsThe Braque Francais is a fairly healthy breed. They are susceptible to certain health conditions that most dogs of their size and working history are susceptible to. These include Patellar luxation which seems to be one of the most common problems for them. They also can have hip and/or elbow dysplasia, aortic stenosis which is a narrowing of the aorta, and some eye issues such as ectropion, entropion, and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy as well as cataracts.

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

braque francais dogs - caringThis is a high energy, working dog with a need for a high-quality energy food or raw food that you make up yourself. Be sure to include chicken, beef and fish. Feed him about 3 cups once a day or 1.5 cups twice a day.

Health issues

In addition to the conditions listed above, his long floppy ears can lead to ear infections if not cared for. Wash them out daily. He is also susceptible to bloat so don’t feed him large meals and don’t let him exercise or work right before or right after exercise.

Exercise and games

These dogs have a variety of hunting skills. They are not only pointers but can flush, trail and retrieve. The Gascogne is not as quick as the Pyrenees. They need a lot of exercise daily or they need a hunting job. They would do well with barn hunt, lure coursing and free play in an off leash fenced in area. If they don’t get rid of their energy, they can be destructive. They were bred to hunt and cannot resist the chase,

Comparison with other breeds

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