The Basset Artesien Normand dog is a breed of short legged hound type dog. It was developed in France. An the word basset refers to short-legged hounds. The breed is also known by it’s common nickname BAN.
The Basset Artesien Normand and the more familiar Basset Hound share a common ancestry in the short-legged hounds of northern France of the early 19th century that displayed osteochondrodysplasia dwarfism.
But unlike the Basset Hound, which was developed by English breeders in the late 19th century as a more substantial dog that was initially cross-bred with Bloodhounds, the Basset-type dogs that French breeders developed remained lighter-boned and more focused on hunting ability.[1]
Documenting of these French Bassets as a purebred breed began in 1870, and from a common ancestral type, two strains were developed. One had crooked front legs (Normand), and the other had straight front legs (Basset d’Artois). The breed club was formed in the year of 1910 and the breed was given it’s present name in 1924.
The Basset Artesien Normand dogs are waking hounds, which are followed by the hunter on foot. Because of their short legs, they would not get too far away from the hunter. The breed was used to hunt rabbits and other small game alone or in packs, but today they are primarily bred to be pets.
Basset Artesien Normand Dog Characteristics
The Basset Artesien Normand dogs are beautiful animals with distinct look. They have a short coat which is tricolored (fawn and white with black blanket, a patch across the back) or bicolored (fawn and white). The head and long ears are distinctive.
The Basset Artesien Normand dog is a relative of the Basset Hound. In fact, both of these breeds share a common history with the iconic short-legged hounds of France.
The Basset Artesien Normand is lighter in bone and structure than the Basset Hound which makes them slightly more effective in field.
As these dogs have short legs, so they are relatively shorter in size than other dogs. Average height of the mature dogs is between 12 and 14 inches at the withers. And average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 15 and 20 kg.
Temperament
The temperament of the Basset Artesien Normand dog should be calm and good-natured. It is a gentle and affectionate breed by nature which is part of what made him so popular among the French aristocracy.
These dogs are born to please and they form strong bonds with family members. They can do well as a watch dog, though they tend to make friends with strangers very quickly, limiting their usefulness as a guard dog.
The Basset Artesien Normand dogs can do well in homes with other cats, dogs or other pets, though they may require extra training to do so.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Basset Artesien Normand dog is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Basset Artesien Normand dog is a small to medium sized breed. So, their diet should be formulated for a small to medium sized breed with average to high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the dogs is very important for raising Basset Artesien Normand dogs. The breed was developed for hunting, so you should expect your dog to have a fair bit of energy, though it will never be hyperactive.
A long daily walk will be sufficient for these dogs. Though they never hurt to give them some extra time to run and play in a fenced yard.
Health
The Basset Artesien Normand dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, ear infections, and arthritis. Always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Basset Artesien Normand |
| Other Names | BAN |
| Breed Size | Small to medium |
| Height | Between 12 and 14 inches at the withers |
| Weight | Between 15 and 20 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Fawn, black and white, fawn and white |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | France |
