Basset artesien-normand

Overall description of the breed

The Basset Artesien-Normand is a breed of dog that originated in France, more specifically in the Artois and Normandy regions, from a cross between the Basset d'Artois and the Basset Normand, two breeds that are now extinct. Appearing around 1870, Louis Lane and Count Jean-Emmanuel Le Coulteux de Canteleu are considered to be the breed's creators. Their main aim was to establish a very specific type of hunting dog, capable of tracking small game, particularly rabbits and hares, in the difficult terrain of these regions.

As previously stated, the ancestors of the Basset Artesien-Normand are small hounds with a morphology suited to hunting on the ground. They were used for their exceptional scent and endurance when hunting on foot, which made them perfectly suited to the steep terrain and wooded areas of Artois and Normandy.

The Basset Artésien-Normand is typical of bassets, with a long, low-legged body, hanging ears and a gentle, expressive expression. Its height at the withers is generally around 30 to 36 cm (12 to 14 inches), and its average weight is around 16 to 20 kg (35 to 44 pounds). These physical characteristics enable it to move easily through dense cover and follow the scent of game over long distances.

The Basset Artesien-Normand is described as a determined, courageous hunting dog with an excellent sense of smell. They are mainly used for hunting hares and rabbits, and their ability to track scent makes them invaluable to hunters. Despite its penchant for hunting, it can also be a friendly and affectionate companion with its family. They are renowned for being gentle, sociable and attached to their owners.

As far as the breed standard is concerned, the Basset Artesien-Normand is recognised and described by the Club du Basset Artésien-Normand, based in France. The official breed standard was first established in 1924. The club strives to preserve the breed's characteristics while promoting its qualities as a hunting and companion dog.

The Basset Artesien-Normand was definitively recognised by the F.C.I. on 29 October 1963, and the most recent update of the official standard in force was published on 12 December 1991. It is classified in Group 6, Section 1.3, which groups together small hounds. This recognition has enabled the Basset Artésien-Normand to gain in popularity as a hunting and companion dog, not only in France but also in other countries around the world.

In short, the Basset Artesien-Normand is a French hunting dog breed with a long history of tracking game in the Artois and Normandy regions. Their basset hound morphology enables them to adapt to difficult terrain, and their determined character makes them a popular companion for hunters. With their exceptional nose and gentle personality, they are also a friendly, affectionate pet for families that appreciate small dogs.