Uncommon Dog Breeds: The Tawny Brittany Basset

A native of France, the Tawny Brittany Basset was developed in the 1800s for the sole purpose of small game hunting. The offspring were the result of crossing the Griffon Fauve de Betagne with short legged hounds found in the Vendee region. Robust, tenacious, and stubborn, the Basset tolerated the harshest terrain and climate conditions throughout the course of tracking. Once the quarry was found, he would flush the game. The Basset worked alone or in small packs. Also refereed to as Basset Fauve de Bretagne, the hound remains rare outside of France, although more of its numbers can be seen working alongside hunters in Great Britain.

The Tawny Brittany Basset has a moderately broad skull, with a rather long muzzle that comes to a gradual stop. Large, almond shaped eyes are dark, and alert in expression. This dog is a thinker. Ears, while not too long, are thin and pendulous. The neck is short, with much throatiness present. The body is long, wide, with a deep chest. Bones are dense, and overall body structure is well muscled. The legs are thick and short, while the tail is long, and held upright when alert. Fur coloring comes in all shades of tan and fawn. The coat is a mixture of coarse semi-wiry and straight fur.