After the French revolution, hunting became a right for the ordinary citizens. But most people could not afford to hold a pack of large hunting dogs and horses.

The big hounds were much to fast to hunt with on foot. This led to the research and selection of smaller, slower dogs which would nevertheless possess the sense of smell and the pursuit ability of the larger hounds.

The Basset Fauve de Bretagne first appeared in Brittany (France) during the 1800s and was originally used for hunting small game. Little is known about it�s pedigree but it is thought to be a cross between the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne (notable for its tracking skills) and the Brittany Basset � a natural hunter. All of the French hunting dogs have common ancestors. These dogs were the running dogs brought from the Middle East by Phoenician merchants (2500 BC) and the Western European Bronze Age's dog (with long curly hair).

These dogs should be between 12�-15 inches tall. Their coat is Very harsh, dense and flat. Their color can be Red-wheaten or fawn.

Regular combing of the coat is an essential part of the Basset Fauve de Bretagne�s care routine and, depending on the condition of the coat, may require the occasional professional grooming session. Excess hair in the ear passage should be removed and the claws trimmed on a regular basis.

Being a hunting dog, the Basset has energy to burn and will need plenty of space to roam and explore around the home. Potential owners must be prepared for regular, lengthy walks to keep it in peak condition.

The breed is currently classified as a rare breed by The Kennel Club.