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Basset Bleu de Gascogne
Hound breed from Gascony, France
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Basset Bleu de Gascogne
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized French scent hound known for its distinctive blue-mottled coat, long drooping ears, and exceptional tracking abilities. It is described as gentle, friendly, alert, loyal, and independent. This breed is suited to families with children and generally gets along well with other dogs. Its energy level is moderate (3 out of 5), and it has a moderate trainability score (3 out of 5). Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5), with moderate shedding (3 out of 5). The breed can adapt to apartment living (3 out of 5 suitability). Note that individual temperaments and behaviors may vary.
Quick facts
Basset Bleu de Gascogne at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginGascony, France
Lifespan10–14 years
Male weight16–18 kilogram
Female weight16–18 kilogram
Male height33–38 centimetre
Female height33–38 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is descended from the larger Grand Bleu de Gascogne, which was developed in the medieval Gascony region of France for hunting small game. The breed nearly became extinct but was revived in the early 20th century by a breeder named Alain Bourbon. Its origins are firmly rooted in Gascony, France, and it is classified as a hound breed. Recognition status varies by registry, and no specific dates or health claims are available from the supplied facts.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
16–18 kilogramAdult weight33–38 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShortCoat colorsBlue-mottledRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentlefriendlyalertloyalindependent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Basset Bleu de Gascogne-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Basset Bleu de Gascogne puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight16–18 kilogramAdult female weight16–18 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Basset Bleu de Gascogne?
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a medium-sized breed. Adult males and females typically weigh between 16 and 18 kg and stand 33 to 38 cm tall at the shoulder. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 14 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of this breed?
The breed is described as gentle, friendly, alert, loyal, and independent. However, individual dogs may differ, and not every dog will exhibit all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Basset Bleu de Gascogne need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (3 out of 5). Regular daily exercise is recommended, but the exact amount may vary by individual. As a scent hound, it may enjoy activities that engage its tracking instincts.
What are the grooming requirements?
Grooming needs are low (2 out of 5). The short, blue-mottled coat requires minimal brushing. Shedding is moderate (3 out of 5). Routine care like ear cleaning is important due to the long drooping ears.
Is the Basset Bleu de Gascogne good for families and apartments?
The breed has a child suitability score of 4 out of 5 and dog compatibility of 4 out of 5, indicating it generally does well with children and other dogs. Apartment suitability is 3 out of 5, suggesting it can adapt but may benefit from access to a yard or regular outdoor time.
Where does the Basset Bleu de Gascogne originate from?
The breed originates from Gascony, France. It is descended from the larger Grand Bleu de Gascogne, developed in medieval times for hunting small game. The breed was revived in the early 20th century by breeder Alain Bourbon.
Is the Basset Bleu de Gascogne recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The supplied facts indicate 'VARIES_BY_REGISTRY,' so it may be recognized by some organizations but not others. No specific registries are listed.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.