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Are Bassets Bleus de Gascogne just a different kind
of Basset Hound?

      NO!!! "Basset" in French simply refers to a scent hound
under 15" at the withers (shoulders). Thus, as Europe
became more and more populated in the middle ages causing
the big game populations to decline kennels had to begin to
breed down their large running hounds to create shorter
legged rabbit hounds. Thus, there are over a dozen "basset"
breeds in existence today, all not related, but all bred for
similar reasons.

      2. Are BBdG's lazy or couch potatoes?

      Not at all. This breed is still used very much for what is
was originally bred. Thus, all dogs come from active hunting
line, and in France, a championship cannot even be awarded
until a dog has also proven itself in the field. Thus, while
BBdGs love to cuddle with their owners they ARE an active
breed.

     3. Do I need a fenced yard?

      Absolutely! Hounds follow their noses, whether it be
across their yard or a 5 lane highway. A fenced yard is a
must and we will NOT place any of our dogs in a home without
one.

      4. Can I show my BBdG?

      Of course. While the BBdG is not an AKC breed it is
recognised by the United Kennel Club (UKC) as well is able to
compete in American Rare Breed Association shows as well
as other rare breed venues.

      5. Can I find a local breeder?

      Due to the rarity of the breed (less than 50 on this side of
the Atlantic) unless you live either in Central California or
Wisconsin in order to acquire a BBdG will require shipping.

      6. How does one ship a dog?

      Dogs can either be flown in an airline approved pet carrier
in the pressurized, climate controlled cabin located directly
below passenger seating or can be transported by pet van
services.

      7. What about the other three Bleu de Gascogne breeds?

      At this time there are both a handful of Petits Bleus de
Gascogne and Grands Bleus de Gascogne dispersed through
out North America in non-breeding, non-showing, pet homes.
None of the current owners have expressed interest at this
time of beginning a state side breeding program. Thus, to
acquire a dog of one of these breeds importation is required.
As for the Griffon Bleu de Gascogne, a gentleman in Canada
brought in a breeding pair in 2002 and has since had one litter.