The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is truly an old French hound, tracing back to the 1500s when Francois I had a pack of Breton hounds he hunted regularly.
The Grand Fauve de Bretagne (Fawn Hound of Brittany) was larger (27.5-29.5 inches) and was introduced to the French court around 1520 by Admiral d’Anneboulde.In the pack owned by Francois I, there was a stud dog named Mirraud, who was used extensively by royalty.
In 1789, aristocratic privileges were abolished, allowing anyone to own and hunt a hound. Most peasants, however, did not own a horse, necessitating a shorter-legged, closer-ranging hunting companion. Thus, Bassetwas developed.By the 19th century, hound packs were made up exclusively of Bassets to hunt rabbits, hare, fox, roe deer and wild boar.
Now, the breed still remains a popular, versatile hunting hound and family dog in France is gaining popularity in the United States and has breed clubs in numerous countries.