Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is described by the AKC as Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, a member of the Hound Group, originally from France.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 12.5-15.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 23-39 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–16+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Affectionate / Alert / Cheerful [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | France [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 201 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Basset Fauves are energetic and love to play. Regular walks need to be on a leash as they can run off and follow their nose at a moment's notice. Areas for exercise and play, such as a backyard, should be fenced for the same reasons. [1]
Grooming
The Basset Fauve de Betagne is almost a 'wash-and-wear' dog, with a coarse, wiry coat that repels dirt and resists matting. Some dogs have more coat than others. Longhaired dogs can be hand-stripped. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a relatively healthy dog, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health concerns such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, cardiomyopathies, skin allergies and age-related thyroid issues. A gene test for primary open angle glaucoma is now available, meaning breeders are able to identify carriers and avoid producing this eye anomaly. The vast majority of Fauves are very healthy and enjoy longevity, with many living to be 16 plus years old. Working with a responsible breeder can help those wishing to own a Fauve to gain the knowledge they need about specific health concerns within the breed. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- It ranked No. 201 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Fauve, BassetFauve.” [1]
- The AKC lists France as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Cardiac Exam. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Basset Fauve de Bretagnes live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-16 years.
How big does a Basset Fauve de Bretagne get?
AKC breed information lists height 12.5-15.5 inches and weight 23-39 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Basset Fauve de Bretagne?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Basset Fauve de Bretagne, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.