Collection: Personalised Basset Bleu De Gascogne Gifts

This charming French pooch is rarely seen outside of its native country, where it was bred as a scent hound. Its short, chunky legs and superior sniffing skills make it the perfect little working dog. Rabbits, squirrels and birds should be wary of this pooch! Bassets have a laid-back personality, and, so long as they have plenty of outdoor time, they will happily settle down in the evening with their human family.

The ‘Bleu’ in the name refers to the ticked coat, which gives it a blue-tinge. Its ‘Bleu’ colour and extra-small build separate it from the other Basset breeds.

There are records of the Basset Bleu’s existence in French 14th century paintings. It’s believed to be a smaller and shorter descendant of the ‘Grand Bleu de Gascogne.’The reason why they were bred, however, is a little unclear. One theory is that as hunters transitioned from horseback to foot, they needed a shorter-legged companion that matched their speed. The Basset Bleu is better adapted to sniff out small prey, too.

They faced near extinction in the 1800s, but a breeding programme initiated by Alain Bourbon saved them. Extinction is no longer a threat, but it is still uncommon to find the breed in Britain/anywhere outside France.

These laid-back chappies are happiest in the company of other dogs, probably because of their pack-dog history. They are an independent breed, so don’t always want to be snuggled, but they are social and more than happy to accompany their owner on any outdoor adventure. Be sure to begin training your puppy early otherwise they become increasingly stubborn.