10 things to know before owning a Basset Bleu De Gascogne

Thinking about bringing home a Basset Bleu de Gascogne? They're a striking and rare breed — with their mottled blue coats, soulful eyes, and signature howl, they’re definitely head-turners. But as someone who’s spent a lot of time around high-energy hounds, I can tell you: they’re not for the faint of heart.

Here’s what you really need to know if you're considering life with this unique scent hound:

They’re hunters at heart.
Basset Bleu de Gascognes were bred to trail small game, and that instinct runs deep. Expect strong prey drive — meaning they’ll chase squirrels, dig up your yard, and bolt after scents if given the chance. You’ll want a solid fence and a sturdy leash. Off-leash parks? Not unless you’ve got recall training dialed in (and even then, be cautious).

They will follow their nose.
This breed has an exceptional sense of smell, and once they catch a scent, their ears basically turn off. Training can be tricky because they’re independent thinkers, and their noses often rule their brains. Short, consistent training sessions with high-value treats (something smelly!) work best. Also, puzzle toys and scent games are a great way to keep their minds busy indoors.

They need a LOT of exercise.
You might look at their short legs and think they’re couch potatoes — don’t be fooled. These dogs are built for endurance. A daily walk around the block won’t cut it. You’ll need to commit to long walks, play sessions, and ideally, some scent work or hiking. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a bored, howling pup on your hands.

Yes, they’re vocal.
That classic hound bay? It’s charming… until it’s 7 a.m. on a Saturday. Basset Bleus are known to be noisy, especially if they’re left alone or under-stimulated. If you live in an apartment or have close neighbors, this could cause issues. Early training, plenty of exercise, and puzzle toys can help cut down on the noise — but you’ll never fully mute a hound.

Friendly, but still need manners.
These dogs are generally sweet-natured and do well with kids and other pets. That said, early socialization is key. Don’t assume because they’re gentle they don’t need boundaries. Like any dog, they’ll thrive when they understand the rules of the house.

Grooming is easy — but don’t neglect those ears.
Their short coat is pretty low-maintenance, though they do shed year-round. A weekly brushing helps keep the fur and dander under control. Their long, droopy ears are more work — you’ll need to clean them regularly to prevent infections. And don’t skip dental care — it’s easy to overlook but incredibly important for long-term health.

Health-wise, be proactive.
Like many purebreds, Basset Bleus can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, obesity, and even heart issues. Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and keeping them lean with exercise will go a long way. Watch for early signs of joint problems, especially as they age.

Training takes patience.
These dogs are smart but stubborn. You’ll need plenty of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Harsh corrections won’t work — they’ll just tune you out. Training is more about partnership than control with this breed.

Not ideal for first-time dog owners.
Honestly, this isn’t the best starter breed. Between their energy, vocal habits, grooming needs, and training challenges, they can overwhelm someone new to dog ownership. But if you’ve got experience — especially with hounds — and are ready to meet their needs, they’re a loyal and loving companion.

Bottom line?
The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a unique, affectionate, and energetic breed that thrives with the right owner. If you’re active, patient, and ready for some joyful chaos (and howling), this might be your perfect match. But if you’re looking for a laid-back, low-maintenance pup, you’ll be better off with another breed.

If you’re still curious, I’d suggest meeting one in person — talk to breeders or rescues and spend some time with the breed before committing. You’ll learn a lot just by watching how they move… and how their nose never stops working.