Basset Artésien Normand
A short-legged French scenthound bred to hunt small game at a walking pace. Gentle, affectionate and sociable, but stubborn and easily led by its nose, with a typical hound bay.
Overview
A short-legged French scenthound bred to hunt small game at a walking pace. Gentle, affectionate and sociable, but stubborn and easily led by its nose, with a typical hound bay.
Good to know — a Basset Artésien Normand is best with a garden and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Basset Artésien Normand is good with children and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a vocal / alert barker, and as a guide they are manageable for committed beginners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Homes with a secure garden
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Basset Artésien Normand typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is easy-care and shedding is moderate. A quick brush now and then, plus the occasional bath when needed, is usually plenty.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Basset Artésien Normand should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a small breed will eat relatively little compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Gentle, affectionate and sociable
- Manageable size with calm indoor manner
Things to consider
- Stubborn with strong scent-led recall
- Tends to bay and bark
Similar breeds
French Bulldog
A compact, easy-going companion that suits flats and modest exercise — but with serious health considerations.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.
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Border Terrier
A hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.
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Dachshund
A bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Basset Artésien Normands good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Basset Artésien Normands tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Basset Artésien Normand need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Basset Artésien Normand needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Basset Artésien Normands shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Basset Artésien Normands easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Basset Artésien Normands are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Basset Artésien Normands bark a lot?
Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.
Are Basset Artésien Normands good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Basset Artésien Normands suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Basset Artésien Normand is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.