Kuvasz vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

Kuvasz vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBasset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France but Kuvasz is originated from Hungary. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may grow 38 cm / 14 inches shorter than Kuvasz. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 34 kg / 74 pounds lesser than Kuvasz. Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Kuvasz has almost same life span. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may have less litter size than Kuvasz. Both Basset Bleu de Gascogne and Kuvasz requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Working dog
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France
Hungary
Height Male:
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
65 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
Height Female:
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
65 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
35 - 52 kg
77 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
35 - 52 kg
77 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
6 - 8
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
Hungarian Kuvasz
Colors Available:
Black with white mottling and some tan
White
Coat:
short and smooth
Medium length to long, wavy or straight
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

basset bleu de gascogneThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an old breed and also one of the most reserved of the Basset family. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, originating in the region of Gascony, France. At one time there were very few of these dogs and Alain Bourbon began doing something about this in the early 20th century, although he didn’t document his breeding practices . There are theories though and one was that he bred a few of the very first Basset Bleu de Gascognes with the Basset Saintongeois and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.

Today the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is rarely found anywhere beyond France’s borders and there are only a few clubs for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.

kuvaszThe Kuvasz is an ancient dog breed from Hungary. It is believed that the dog is the oldest of the ancient Hungarian dog breeds, and in fact a fossilized skeleton dating back to the 9th century, and almost identical to the modern Kuvasz, was found near Keszthely.

During the 15th century the Kuvasz became very sought after, being found in royal courts. Puppies were given as royal gifts. Later the popularity of the breed waned and then it was found in its traditional role of guarding livestock.

As Kuvasz numbers dwindled, breeding efforts were started but it is believed that other large dogs such as the Great Pyrenees were used with the Kuvasz to continue with the breeding programs.

In 1884, the first Hungarian standard for the breed was written. It was in 1966 that the Kuvasz Club of America was established.

Description

The Most Reserved of the Bassets

basset bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne today is a striking looking hound, and is the most reserved o the Basset breeds. When you look at him, their general appearance is large but not too heavy. Long of build, his height at the withers is about 30 – 38cm, and he weighs up to 18kg.

He has short legs, thick bones, long floppy ears and dark brown, sad eyes, but is still agile and able to get around quickly. This particular Basset has a short, smooth, dense coat which is black with a white mottled pattern and some tan marking around the feet and face. You’ll most times notice black patches over his ears and sides of his head and there will typically be a white blaze on his skull.

Gentle Expression, Gentle of Nature

The attractive Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of 6 Basset Hound breeds, and this one is an energetic, lively dog who possesses a great sense of smell. Easy to train, he slots in well with his human family, wanting to please them all the time. They just love his dark, sorrowful brown eyes and the gentle expression on his face. With his deep bark, he tries to talk to his family. He is fairly easy to train, and with socialization and training he makes an exceptional pet.

He Likes to Roam

Perhaps one aspect of the Basset family that doesn’t go down well with dog owners is their wandering nature. As a scenthound, he often gets the scent of something and wants to put his nose down and follow it. If you haven’t got a sturdy wall or fence around your property, he’ll just wander off.

kuvasz puppy - descriptionThe beautiful Kuvasz is a large, muscled dog standing at 65 – 76cm in height and weighing 35 – 52kg. He has a double coat of dense white hair which can be straight or wavy.

It is natural for the dog to lose most of the long coat during the Summer months. In other words this dog has a seasonal coat.

The nose is black, the eyes brown and alert, the ears are of medium length and floppy and the tail is carried long and low.

Temperament:

The Kuvasz is an intelligent dog who will benefit from training and socialization. It is always wise to have large dogs like this trained because just his size can cause problems if he isn’t obedient.

He is also described as a clownish type of dog which means he’ll entertain and amuse you. Certainly he is playful as a puppy but he calms down quite a bit as he grows into maturity. He is independent, and those who have owned such a dog report that he can be loving and loyal with his human family, wanting to guard and protect them. Others will say that he tended to be aloof, even with his human family.

Used as working dogs, the Kuvasz has learned to be independent and they will need a firm, strong owner who is also fair with them, otherwise they just do their own thing. They’re active dogs and because of their size they won’t suit city living where there is a tiny garden.

Characteristics

basset bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThis smooth-coated breed with his low-set ears, his sad eyes, out-turned paws and gentle but intelligent pet make this dog an awesome, companionable pet. He is loyal, affectionate and devoted. They’re good with children and other pets, and can even make superb pets for older- or frail people who may lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

The Basset Bleu also sheds a bit less than their Basset Hound counterparts, although they do tend to shed throughout the year. He will require training, just like any dog really, but you don’t want to be harsh with training, as he is a gentle, sensitive dog.

Laid back, this dog which has always been an excellent hunter in days gone by, will make anyone a devoted, loyal friend.

kuvasz dog - characteristicsKuvasz are guarding dogs, they’re intelligent and loyal, making them excellent family dogs with the right training and socialization.

They’re able to get on well with other pets in the home as well as children. He is a beautiful dog and another bonus is that he isn’t particularly high maintenance.

As is common with many other large-breed dogs, he will have a shorter lifespan than what you’d get with a smaller dog breed, but if you feed him high quality food, exercise him and involve him in your activities, this large dog can become a wonderful friend and protector for you.

Health Problems

basset bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsA great aspect with Basset Bleus is that they have very few health issues and are quite laid back. They can easily get to 14 years of age and older with good nutrition and exercise. Nothing is set in stone however, and every breed can suddenly develop health problems.

Dogs like this with a deep chest can be prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat. This is a condition not to be taken lightly as it can be life threatening. Gastric dilatation volvulus means twisted stomach because of excessive gas or flatulence and your dog will require prompt treatment.

kuvasz puppies - health problemsThe large Kuvasz is a healthy dog breed that with good care can reach 12–14 years of age. Being the large dog that he is, he may well be prone to bone and joint problems. It is why good nutrition is so important for this dog - feeding him the best food with vitamins and minerals.

You know the saying ...you are what you eat... and this applies to dogs too. Good food can help to ward off serious illnesses. Big dogs like this often have to contend with hip dysplasia which can be both painful and debilitating as well as eye diseases.

Entropion:

This is where the eyelid of the dog rolls inwards, causing irritation and pain for the dog. There is also Ectropion, where the eyelid rolls outwards.If you see your pet has a red eye which is watery and which has pus, visit your vet. Entropion surgery will correct and repair and condition.

Caring The Pet

Coat

basset bleu de gascogne dogs - caringWith his short coat, shedding isn’t a huge issue with the Basset Bleu. He sheds seasonally and then you will definitely have to brush him at least twice a week to get rid of all that loose hair.

Slobbering

Some dog owners don’t get used to the slobbering of these dogs. Certainly, you will need to change his drinking water often because of this slobbering of his. It can result in the water containing viruses and bacteria which can cause infections in your dog.

Exercise

These dogs tend to be lazy at home, so it will be up to you to see that he gets a good quota of exercise to prevent him becoming fat and prone to more illnesses. The backs, especially with added weight, can cause problems and this kind of dog shouldn’t be encouraged to jump off beds and couches.

Grooming:

kuvasz dogs - caringThe coat may be fairly long and thick but it doesn’t require any special kind of grooming. A good brush twice a week will be adequate and will help with getting rid of stubborn knots and matting.

He is a seasonal shedder and this frequent brushing will make sure the coat remains groomed and shiny.

General Care:

The Kuvasz is a hardy breed who just loves the outdoors. He is a dog that doesn’t do well in the heat. Make absolutely sure that he has a cool, sheltered spot where he can lie down. Ensure that there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water available to him.

Diet:

There is quite a bit of conflict and controversy regarding nutrition in dogs. The idea is to keep it simple. If you buy a commercially manufactured dog food, check the ingredients on the packaging.

You want to be sure your pet is getting vitamins and minerals in instead of preservatives, fillers and colorants. Try and give him some home made food too such as some chicken, brown rice or pasta and some vegetables. You can mix this into his dry kibble occasionally with a little bit of raw meat too when you have.

Avoid feeding your dog things such as chocolates, nuts, onions, sweets and chips.

Comparison with other breeds

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  5. Kuvasz vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Kuvasz vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Kuvasz vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Kuvasz vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Kuvasz vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Kuvasz vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Kuvasz vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Kuvasz vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Kuvasz vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
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  16. Kuvasz vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
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  24. Kuvasz vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Kuvasz vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison