Origin
The Basset Artésien Normand is one of the six recognized French Basset breeds. It has its origins in Artoisand Normandy, and dates back to the 1600s.
The controlled breeding, as well as the documenting of the short-haired French Basset as a pure breed, began in 1870.
]During the 20th century, there were 2 distinct varieties for this breed: One had straight front legs (Chien d’Artois) and the other had crooked front legs (Normand). Leon Verrier, a French breeder, developed today’s standard, which is a blend of the two said varieties.
It is used for hunting foxes and hares, sometimes in the company of larger dogs. When the larger dogs are unable to penetrate, the Basset Artésien Normand is ready to assist.
The first club for this breed was formed in 1910.
A year after, the breed was officially recognized. Finally, in the year 1924, the breed was given its present name.
Traits and Behavior
Many French owners love this hound and welcome it into their home as a member of their family. Basset Artésien Normand has an excellent sense of smell and loves to trace scents, so be careful it does not run away from you.
BBasset Artésien Normand is fairly easy to obedience train. Although it is courageous, determined and stubborn due to its strong hunting instincts, the Basset Artésien Normand are gentle with children and is a trustworthy dog.
They may bark loudly when strangers come. Basset Artésien Normand will do fine with other breeds.
If they are socialized with cats and other animals when they are young, they will work fine together.
The owner should be firm but calm, consistent and confident in their approach. To avoid behavioral problems, the owner should know the dog’s instincts and treat the dog accordingly.
Pet Care and Diseases
The Basset Artésien Normand is a relatively healthy breed, especially when compared to other Basset varieties. Common Health Problems to which a Basset Artesian Normand may be susceptible include:
- Ear infection
- Hypothyroidism
- Hip dysplasia
- Joint and back pain
These dogs are not well suited for an apartment because they are not very active indoors. They require plenty of daily mental and physical exercise. This breed needs long daily walks and a small backyard will be sufficient for them.
The soft, short-haired coat of a Basset Artésien Normand is easy to care for. Brush the dog’s coat occasionally to remove dead hair. Apply shampoo only when necessary. Clean the ears regularly and keep its nails short.
Appearance
Bassets are dwarf-like, full-size dogs, in which the body lengths are retained, but with expanded heads, shortened long bones and large joints. Their short stature allows hunters to follow them easily on foot. The BAN is a smallish scent hound that resembles a Basset hound in many ways.
The body is twice as long as its height. It is approximately 25-36 cm tall and weighs approximately 15 kg. The head is dome-shaped with hairy cheeks. Its eyes are large and look austere. Its ears are very long, cone-shaped, soft, and gives it’s head a noble and beautiful appearance.
The neck is slightly dewlap and the muscles are smooth with a moderate amount of wrinkles. The big black nose protrudes slightly beyond the lips. The tail is thick at the base, but tapers towards the end, and has a saber curve.
The coat is very short and is available in colors such as mixed orange and white, pure orange, brown or white. Breeders prefer white paws.
General Information
The life expectancy of this breed is about 13-15 years. The average litter size is approximately 6-8 puppies. The Basset Artésian Normand is also known as BAN or Artesien Norman Basset.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Basset Artésien Normand. Click this link: http://www.ban-artois.org/