American Blue Gascon Hound Dog Breed Caring and Family, Social Life, Physical Traits, Diet Information

The American Blue Gascon Hound is a purebred, large scenthound, bred in the United States from the French Grand Bleu de Gascon breed. These hounds, also known as Bignblue, are skilled at using their scent smelling skills to track, chase, and bring down all kinds of game, from squirrels to boars. They use their loud characteristic bayling and howling to communicate with their owners after trapping their prey. However, they are also family-friendly pets. They are sturdy, robust, strong-boned, firm-muscled dogs, slightly longer than high. American Blue Gascon Hounds love interaction with their families, and they cherish time spent with children. American Blue Gascon Hounds are playful and adventurous, and ideal companions for outdoor enthusiasts and families with active lifestyles. Dogs of this breed are often referred to as “Gascon Blue,” “Blue Gascon.” and “Bignblue.”

What are the Breed Traits and Characteristics of the American Blue Gascon Hound? 

American Blue Gascon Hounds are USA-born and bred hunters of raccoons and other small game. Gascon Blue Hounds are said to be the largest of all the scent hounds, weighing as much as 105 pounds, and they typically measure up to 30 inches high when measured at shoulder level. Like other scent hounds, the Bignblues nostrils are wide open, and they have long muzzles to gather the scents they gather by swapping their long floppy ears on the ground as they trail the path of their prey.

Does American Blue Gascon Hound have the Tendency to Run off?

Yes, Gascon Blue Hounds have the tendency to run off. This is because they have been bred as hunting dogs, and their natural instincts are to follow anything they see as prey. Owners of Blue Gascons should always ensure they are securely leashed on walks. Likewise, secure fencing around the dog’s property is crucial because Gascon Blues are intelligent hunters, and they will make plans to get out if a scent triggers their hunting instincts.

What are the Ideal Living Conditions for American Blue Gascon Hounds?

The ideal living conditions for American Blue Gascon Hounds depend on location and climate. American Blue Gascon Hounds are very active and need a fenced-in backyard, although living in the country would suit them best. In mild climates, the Bignblues can even sleep outside if they have another canine companion. However, if they are alone, they will be lonely and should be allowed to sleep inside. They can spend the daytime hours getting rid of pent-up energy outside and sleep indoors at night. Being scent hounds makes them expert escape artists, and their owners must ensure their backyards have secure fences. Their instincts to follow any attractive scents will have them trying to dig themselves out to track their prey.

What is the Type of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are purebred working dogs that are classed as hunting dogs and also scent hounds. The Gascon Blue breed is believed to be descendants of the French Grand Bleu de Gascon breed.

What is the Average Litter Size of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The average litter size of dogs of the American Blue Gascon Hound breed is six to ten puppies. Blue Gascon Puppies are born, which will become darker as they grow. Puppies are born with mostly white coats and the darker colors will develop when the whelps are a few weeks old. The gestation period is 60 to 64 days and breeders limit the litters to one per year. That is to prevent health harm to the American Blue Gascon Hound females. However, puppy mills disregard the damage and cruelty of high volume breeding because every puppy born improves their bottom line.

How Do American Blue Gascon Hounds Interact with Families?

American Blue Gascon Hounds love the interaction with their human families. Although they are not typically thought of as family dogs, they are affectionate and typically close to the family and other people they know. Bignblue Hounds are protective of the people they regard as members of their family. Blue Gascon Hounds as pets do best with active families. However, despite their gentleness, young American Blue Gascon Hound puppies could be pushy and bouncy when excited. They might unintentionally knock children over with their sturdy bodies. Most behavioral problems can be eliminated or prevented with early training.

How Does the American Blue Gascon Hound Interact with Other Dogs?

The American Blue Gascon Hound does not naturally get on with other dogs. Without a dominant and firm owner’s guidance, the Bignblue hound might show dog aggression. Gascon Blues are very intelligent, and if they are not socialized from a puppy time, the aggressive trait when iterating with other dogs might never be overcome.

How are American Blue Gascon Hounds with Older People?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are commonly okay with older people. However, American Blue Gascon Hounds’ sturdy build and hyperactivity might overwhelm older people. They require lots of playtime and exercise, and they remain playful for at least three years before they reach adulthood and calm down. Insufficient exercise typically causes boredom in American Blue Gascon Hounds, and boredom leads to destruction and howling.

How are American Blue Gascon Hounds with Children?

American Blue Gascon Hounds love interaction with kids, and if that means extra playtime and attention, so much the better. However, American Blue Gascon Hounds are more suitable for older children and might be nippy with young children. That is why it is important to work on socialization for Blue Gascon puppies and children.

How are American Blue Gascon Hounds with Neighbors or Guests?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are friendly toward neighbors and guests. However, Bignblues are very intelligent and they will quickly sense if their owners feel uncomfortable in the presence of neighbors or guests. That will trigger the hounds to protect their family until they feel there are no longer threats present. Once the dogs are at ease, they would enjoy the attention and even play with guests who don’t have dogs at home. American Blue Gascon Hounds are considered ideal family dogs because they are so affectionate.

What are the Differences Between the American Blue Gascon Hound Sexes?

There are no significant differences between the males and females of the American Blue Gascon Hound breed, except for some physical differences. Blue Gascon males weigh 90 pounds and more, while females weigh between 75 pounds and more. Their heights are reasonably similar. The males are between 27 and 30 inches high, and the females, between 25 and 28 inches. Furthermore, no personality differences between the blue Gascon sexes have been recorded. Whether people choose a male or female American Blue Gascon Hound will make no difference, except that a male may mark his territory, and the female comes into heat once each year.

What are the American Blue Gascon Hound’s Physical Traits?

The American Blue Gascon Hound is a large scent hound with an exceptionally keen sense of smell. The Gascon Blues are friendly and they have long, floppy, velvety ears. Their coats are typically mostly white at birth, but darken as they mature. American Blue Gascon Hounds have expressive eyes that are almost round in shape and brown. The Blue Gascons have short, dense, loosely-fitting coats, which help them regulate their body temperature. Other physical traits of the American Blue Gascon Hound dog are listed below:

What is the Size of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

The size of the American Blue Gascon Hound is the largest of all Scent Hounds.

When a Blue Gascon male is fully mature, he reaches a height between 27 and 30 inches at the withers, and a weight between 90 and 100 pounds on average. The females reach heights from 25 to 28 inches measured at the shoulder, weighing between 75 and 85 pounds. 

However, Blue Gascons that participate in frequent hunting trips on rough terrain will likely develop significantly more muscle mass and burn more calories, which will affect the hound’s nutritional needs.

Is the American Blue Gascon Hound the Largest of the Scenthounds?

Yes, the American Blue Gascon Hound is one of the largest of the scenthounds. The Bignblue stands at two feet or taller at the whithers, with a deep chest, a long neck, and broad, muscular hips.

How to Feed an American Blue Gascon Hound?

When feeding American Blue Gascon Hounds, it is essential to understand the dog’s needs. Consider their high energy and agility, metabolism, size, age, daily activity level, and food quality. American Blue Gascon Hounds need high-quality foods rich enough in calories to sustain their exceptional energy levels. It is best to divide the daily allocation into two separate meals. To avoid the dogs experiencing bloating or other health complications, they should not receive it all at once but at intervals throughout the day.

Their food requirements are listed below:

• Adult American Blue Gascon Hounds require between 1180 and 2180 calories daily. Older, less active American Blue Gascon Hounds need fewer calories.
• Owners of American Blue Gascon Hounds should ensure their dogs’ diets include 22% protein to keep their joints and muscles healthy and no more than 8% fat to optimize energy levels.
• For overall health, the diets of American Blue Gascon Hounds should include vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish. 
• Three to five cups of high-quality dry dog food, split into two meals, are typically enough for an American Blue Gascon Hound per day. American Blue Gascon Hounds must always have access to fresh drinking water.
• High-quality commercial kibble brands typically include beneficial plant proteins like peas and lentils.
• American Blue Gascon Hounds tend to gulp the food up too fast. That can cause bloating. 

American Blue Gascon Hounds tend to become overweight if their owners overfeed them.

How Many Cups of Food Should an American Blue Gascon Hound Eat Daily?

American Blue Gascon Hounds should eat 3 to 5 cups of high-quality kibble per day, spread over two feeds. As they age and become less active, the amount of food should be adjusted to avoid weight gain.

Depending on the brand of kibble, the average number of calories per cup of dry kibble is 400. However, any treats offered to an American Blue Gascon Hound must be included in calculating how many cups of food they need. Treats must never exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.

The table below shows how to calculate how many cups of food an American Blue Gascon Hound needs based on averages. However, most Bignblues eat less than allowed, and owners can take their cues from how much remains in the dog bowl to reduce the serving size.

What is the Daily Cost of Food Consumption of American Blue Gascon Hounds?

Determining the daily cost of food consumption for American Blue Gascon Hounds involves variables like the dog’s size, age, health, and energy needs. Similarly, different food brands and food types will influence the average daily food costs.

Consider the following:

The average weight of an American Blue Gascon Hound is 100 pounds — usually between 90 and 110 pounds, needing about 40 pounds of kibble per month. 

That equals about 460 pounds of dry dog food per year.

Considering different kibble qualities and bag sizes, the average price for a pound of kibble is $2.19  

Therefore, the average cost of kibble for an American Blue Gascon Hound is $1.100 per year or $2.75 per day or $85 per month.

How Much Should an American Blue Gascon Hound Puppy Eat?

American Blue Gascon Hound puppies are more active than adults and require more food, and their daily ration must be scheduled throughout the day, and adjusted as they grow.

The puppy’s feeding ration can go as follows below:

• 8 to 12 weeks: 4 meals in a day
• 3 to 6 months: 3 meals in a day 
• 6 months to 1 year: 2 times in a day

When the American Blue Gascon Hound becomes an adult, feeding twice per day is best.

The nutritional needs of an American Blue Gascon Hound puppy are listed below:

• American Blue Gascon Hound puppies’ protein needs are about 21% to 23% more than adult dogs to grow and support strong bones. Yet, overfeeding protein can cause too rapid development of joints and bones, weakening the skeleton.
• Watch the calcium content of the American Blue Gascon Hound puppy’s food. It should be limited to 3 grams for every 1,000 calories.
• An American Blue Gascon Hound puppy’s system would also require Vitamins A and D and minerals like zinc, manganese, and copper.

What are the Breed-Related Health Problems of American Blue Gascon Hounds?

Breed-specific health concerns to which American Blue Gascon Hounds are predisposed include some problems often linked to large breeds. and some are hereditary conditions, as listed below. 

• Otitis externa, commonly referred to as Ear cankers are typical of breeds with pendulous ears like the American Blue Gascon Hound. It is one of the most common dog ear problems and simply involves inflammation of the ear canal.
• Congenital Heart Defect is a defect in the vessel of the heart known as the ductus arteriosus. It occurs in Bignblue puppies shortly after birth to within the first few months after birth.
• Gastric Torsion: Known as bloating is a life-threatening disorder that happens when a Gascon Blue’s stomach fills with gas and becomes twisted.
• Ectropion is a canine disease in which the eyelid of the dog moves outward.
• Hip Dysplasia is a hip joint malformation, a common skeletal condition in American Blue Gascon Hounds and other large breed dogs.
• Elbow Dysplasia is the most common cause of lameness in the forelimbs in large and giant breed dogs like Bignblues.

American Blue Gascon Hounds are mostly healthy with powerful resistance to illnesses, and the list above are potential issues, but many rarely occur. This breed is a large breed and it is crucial to take it easy on the joints of growing puppies, avoiding too much running and jumping until the bones and joints are entirely formed.

What are the Health Tests an American Blue Gascon Hound Should Take?

Breed-specific health concerns to which American Blue Gascon Hounds are predisposed include some problems often linked to large breeds. Health tests for the American Blue Gascon Hound can save the dog a lot of suffering, and the owner a lot of money. Although the American Blue Gascon Hound breed is healthy overall, there are important health tests new owners are advised to have done. Responsible breeders do selective breeding of American Blue Gascon Hound puppies they offer for sale.

When buying an American Blue Gascon Hound, new owners should expect to see the following certificates.

• OFA: Health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hip and elbow dysplasia. 
• CERF: Also, from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation certifying that eyes are normal.

Health clearances are not issued to Gascon Blues younger than two years of age. That is because some health problems only become apparent when a hound reaches full maturity. For this reason, it’s often recommended that breeders wait for Blue Gascons to reach two or three years before using them for breeding.

Purchasing an American Blue Gascon Hound puppy from a reputable breeder practicing responsible breeding and screening pups for common conditions and diseases could ensure bringing a healthy Blue Gascon Hound home.

Are American Blue Gascon Hounds Hypoallergenic?

No, American Blue Gascon Hounds are not hypoallergenic. For people who are prone to allergies, American Blue Gascon Hounds might not be a suitable choice. This breed is known to cause allergic reactions in many people. The belief of most people that dogs’ hair or fur causes allergies is not valid. The true source of the allergic reactions is skin flakes called dander and the protein in dogs’ saliva. Fortunately, American Blue Gascon Hounds do not drool a lot.

What are the Exercise Needs of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are very energetic canines needing a lot of exercise. At least 60 minutes of physical activity per day is essential for preventing weight gain and perhaps obesity. If the Bignblue owner is a jogger, taking the leashed American Blue Gascon Hound along would be even better. Dog owners should ensure their hounds are securely leashed because the slightest scent could trigger a Gascon Blue to follow the trail. American Blue Gascon Hounds that are solely companion dogs and never or seldom go hunting, must still be given the opportunity to exercise properly. Blue Gascons can become destructive and experience anxiety if they do not receive regular physical and mental exercise.

What is the Activity Level of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are very active and they need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Their neverending stamina that makes Gascon Blues excellent hunting dogs also makes them great companions for jogging or walking. Slowing down to a leisurely stroll to wind down after a jog will allow the hound some sniffing time and will score the owner some points. Bignblues also enjoy non-hunting activities like rally sports, agility competitions, and advanced obedience training.

What are the Nutritional Needs of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

Meeting the nutritional needs of the American Blue Gascon Hound breed is crucial because they have a strong tendency to be overweight. Any signs of weight gain should be discussed with a veterinarian to help establish a healthy diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the American Blue Gascon Hound’s weight regularly.

The nutritional needs of Blue Gascons must be met to ensure strong overall health. Adult Blue Gascon Hounds require between 1180 and 2180 calories daily. Older, less active American Blue Gascon Hounds need fewer calories per day, and active Bignblues that participate in hiking or hunting need more.

The essential nutrients for American Blue Gascon Hound are listed below:

• Protein: American Blue Gascon Hound dogs need natural animal protein, valuable for the amino acids they contain that are essential for their health. Equally important is the fact that protein builds lean muscles and provides energy.
• Fat: Animal protein also provides adequate fat, an additional energy source that boosts the American Blue Gascon Hound’s metabolism. However, there is a fine line between enough and too much. Excessive fat levels in the hound’s daily diet could result in weight gain and, ultimately, obesity. Most importantly, adult and senior Gascon Blues need lower fat levels than puppies.
• Carbohydrates: Although carbs are not essential nutrients, they are crucial energy sources. Giving the American Blue Gascon Hound sufficient carbs will provide energy, encouraging the body’s protein absorption to build lean muscle. Beware, though; too many carbohydrates can lead to obesity.
• DHA: DHA is one of the components of omega-3 fatty acids. It promotes proper eye and brain development in American Blue Gascon Hound puppies. It boosts cognitive development in puppies and slows cognitive decline in older dogs. Furthermore, omega fatty acids benefit aging dogs by treating chronic kidney disease and canine arthritis. Omega-3 oils improve the coat health of American Blue Gascon Hound dogs.
• Micronutrients: Taurine is one micronutrient that aids heart health, and other valuable micronutrients for the promotion of strong joints in American Blue Gascon Hounds are chondroitin and glucosamine.
• Minerals: Beneficial minerals for American Blue Gascon Hound dogs’ growth include a healthy balance of phosphorus and calcium. Pre- and probiotics and chelated minerals provide additional health to the diets of American Blue Gascon Hounds.

What is the Shedding Level of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

The shedding level of an American Blue Gascon Hound is moderate. Although they have short-haired coats, they still shed because it is a natural process. The Gascon Blue  Coonhound’s coat is short-haired, dense, glossy, and sheds quite a bit. Shedding is a natural process in the hair growth cycles of all dogs. A good brushing once a week will remove loose and dead hair to avoid getting the American Blue Gascon Hound’s hair all over the furniture.

As they prepare for the changing weather of summer and winter, they shed excessively. During the shedding seasons that happen twice per year, a daily brush could keep the loose hair in control. Frequent brushing also helps keep the coat shiny, and American Blue Gascon Hounds love the extra attention they get when their owners brush them.

What is the Coat Grooming Frequency of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

The coat grooming frequency of American Blue Gascon Hounds is not demanding, but it is important. The oils on their coats are there to repel water and dirt, but it also collects in the skin folds. At the same time moisture, bacteria, and dirt get trapped in the folds and wrinkles. The only way to limit the Coonhound’s odor is to frequently wipe all the places where the oil can trap whatever causes the unpleasant odor. The long floppy ears of these Bignblues make ear grooming essential to prevent ear infections.

The grooming routine involves brushing the Gascon Blue’s coat once or twice a week.

An untended coat can become matted, which can cause irritation that could be extremely uncomfortable for the pup, adversely affecting its wellbeing, health, and look. Routine grooming also offers numerous other fantastic benefits for the American Blue Gascon Hound and its owner, including the list below.

• Better health and smell
• Less shedding and a shinier, healthier coat
• Promotes new hair growth and distributes skin oils throughout the coat to keep it healthy
• Can discover any health-related or skin problems
• Lowers the risks of ear infections
• Excellent opportunity to look for any fleas and ticks

Brushing and grooming the Blue Gascon canine are activities that also help to boost the connection between pet and owner.

What is the Drooling Level of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The drooling level of the American Blue Gascon Hound is reasonably high. Many owners keep a cloth handy to wipe away the pup’s drool, especially when they are indoors.

However, drooling in American Blue Gascon Hounds and all other dogs is natural. It is an entirely normal and necessary process for a dog’s good health. The saliva of dogs is an oral mucus secretion that is closely linked with their digestive systems and stomachs. It facilitates swallowing and anticipates and prepares for digestion, with various circumstances triggering the mucus secretion.

Frequent cases of natural drooling in American Blue Gascon Hounds are listed below:

• Feeding-related drooling: When an American Blue Gascon Hound knows it’s time to eat, smelling the aromas of food, or seeing their owner handling the bag or storage container with kibble typically causes drooling. It is called the “Pavlov reflex.”
• Excitement: American Blue Gascon Hounds are clever, and they will know when a walk or game session is imminent.
• Stress and anxiety: Any unusual situations like unfamiliar thunderous noises or being approached by a large, aggressive-looking dog could trigger excessive drooling in any hound.
• Sexual: A male American Blue Gascon Hound’s excitement when seeing a female could also cause drooling. Likewise, a female experiencing her first heat might drool if she picks up the smell of an American Blue Gascon boy Hound.

What is the Coat Type of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The coat type of American Blue Gascon Hounds is short, smooth, dense, and very thick. The denseness of the coat helps to maintain body temperature. The Blue Gascon’s brown, black or tan coat fits loosely.

What is the Coat Length of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The coat length of the American Blue Gascon Hound is short.

What is the Coat Density of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed’s coat is dense.

What is the Coat Texture of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed’s outer coat is thick and coarse.

What are the Possible Coat Colors of American Blue Gascon Hounds?

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed’s puppies are born almost entirely white, and their coats develop darker colors within a couple of weeks. Typical colors present in Blue Gascon coats include black, brown, and tan, often blends of these and other colors including black on blue, blue, tan trim, roan mottled, blue brindle, steel blue, or grizzled in the coat patterns

What is the Brushing Frequency of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The frequency of brushing necessary for the American Gascon Blue Hounds is two or three times a week, or more. However, the more an owner brushes the Bignblue’s coat, the fewer hairs will be left behind on the furniture. Their short coat is easy to brush, and doing it more frequently provides additional bonding time between family and hound.

How Often Should American Blue Gascon Hound Be Bathed?

Blue Gascon Hounds who are taken frequently to the countryside, where they walk in the mud, or swim in the lakes and get very dirty, might need a good wash. However, bathing should be limited to no more than once every four to six weeks. Too frequent washing could damage the skin and remove the oils necessary for a healthy coat. Puppies should not be washed before it is three months old.

What are the Social Traits of the American Blue Gascon Hound Breed?

The Social Traits of Gascon Blue  Bignblues are loyal and good-natured hunters and companion dogs. They are passionate, intelligent, alert and they crave their owner’s approval. The Gascon Blues are friendly and gentle whenever they deal with humans. If Bignblues are trained to respect children from a young age, they will be gentle child companions. The social traits of dogs in the American Blue Gascon Hound breed are affectionate, friendly, gentle, cheerful, and lovable. They crave constant attention and will find ways to get as much love as possible. They are highly intelligent, curious, lively, and independent. Other social traits are listed below:

• Child Friendly: Bignblues enjoy interaction with children and they are willing playmates. 
• Family Friendly: American Blue Gascon Hounds are affectionate with their human families and submissive to their masters.
• Stranger Friendly: Blue Gascons will be aloof and wary in the company of strangers until they decide there is no threat to them or their families.
• Dog Friendly: Gascon Blue  Hounds get along well with other dogs if they grew up together. However, without socialization training, Bignblues might react aggressively toward strange dogs.
• Seniors Friendly: American Blue Gascon Hounds are friendly with seniors, and they will protect them from harm. However, their rumbunctious excitement at times might be too active and exuberant for frail seniors.

How Do American Blue Gascon Hounds Interact with Strangers?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are not the most stranger-friendly dogs, only until they feel comfortable that the stranger will not harm their family. Friendliness does not necessarily depend upon breed. The majority of dogs are friendly if they have been introduced to new people, places, and experiences as they were growing up, and received socialization training. 

Are American Blue Gascon Hounds Playful?

Yes, American Blue Gascon Hounds are playful dogs. Playtime with their adult family members includes going on hunting trips, or just hiking in the mountains to make up for all the sniffing they’ve lost out on. American Blue Gascon Hounds like playing, whether it is with children or other dogs and pets. 

Are American Blue Gascon Hounds Protective?

American Blue Gascon Hounds are protective, but not aggressive. They will bark to alert their family members of anything they suspect might be a threat, but they will not typically attack. Blue Gascons will use their hunting skills to determine whether there is a threat or not. Their watchdog skills are impressive, and Gascon Blues will likely use a deep-throated bark to alert their family to someone approaching. This dog is big enough to look intimidating but unlikely to bite or otherwise harm anyone.

What is the Adaptability Level of American Blue Gascon Hounds?

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed is surprisingly adaptable. Bignblues are not the best choice for an apartment lifestyle, but they don’t mind being inside if they are taken for walks several times a day. Bignblues adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments and climates without too many problems. Although they crave human interaction, they are typically quite happy to spend time outside if they have other canine company.

What are the Personality Traits of American Blue Gascon Hound?

The personality traits of American Blue Gascon Hounds include their happiness to be a part of a family. American Blue Gascon Hounds have no problems accepting a human as their master. They are usually very affectionate dogs and loyal to their owners and inclined to be unusually ‘cuddly’ at home. Gascon Blues are a social breed that enjoys being around people or other animals and they do not tolerate being left alone. They are a hunting breed of the scent hound type, so they have strong preying instincts that are triggered by scents in the air or on the ground.

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed is intelligent and has a fearless personality. They are robust working dogs with weather-resistant coats. Bignblues are not very fast but are known for their high stamina. American Blue Gascon Hounds are scent hounds with inborn instincts to follow particular scent trails.

Can American Blue Gascon Hounds be Aggressive?

No, American Blue Gascon Hounds are not aggressive. They do show a strong determination to follow a scent when they pick up on something that interests them, but not in an aggressive way. This might not be valid for their interaction with other dogs as they often react to strange dogs with aggression. However, such issues could be prevented with socialization training from puppy size.

Can American Blue Gascon Hounds be Dangerous?

No, American Blue Gascon Hounds are not dangerous by nature but certain circumstances could lead to dangerous reactions. American Blue Gascon Hounds must be given a lot of attention and have proper discipline. Owners of dogs must also ensure they are dominant to show they are the pack leaders. Most breeds that Bignblues encounter will be clever enough to see which dog owners are not dominant. When that happens, dangerous situations could develop.

Do American Blue Gascon Hounds Ever Attack?

No, chances of American Blue Gascon Hound attacking or biting a person are low. However, any of the following circumstances could cause a dog to reach boiling point and bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked.

Can American Blue Gascon Hounds Kill Humans?

Yes, American Blue Gascon Hounds can likely kill humans, but chances of a Gascon Blue building up enough aggression to kill a human are minimal.

How do American Blue Gascon Hounds Cope with Being Left Alone?

American Blue Gascon Hound dogs do not cope well with isolation. They need a lot of training and human companionship. However, they can cope with being alone for a few hours per day as long as they have sufficient space to play and suitable toys to keep them busy. American Blue Gascon Hounds crave social interaction with their human families, and they might act up if left in isolation too often. Bignblues that get enough exercise tend to cope with isolation best. Ensuring the dog is in a securely fenced area with no means of getting out when left alone is crucial because Gascon Blues can even pick up scents in the air. If they are alone and bored, any scent might get their hunting instincts going, and if there is a way to escape, the Bignblue will pursue it. Without space and toys, an American Gascon Blue will become bored, noisy, and destructive.

Can I leave my American Blue Gascon Hound at home?

Yes, an American Blue Gascon Hound can be left at home, but they don’t relish being left alone. However, most American Blue Gascon Hounds will be satisfied to stay behind with other family members if their favorite human has to go out for a while.

Can American Blue Gascon Hounds be left alone for 8 hours?

No, American Blue Gascon Hounds should not be left alone for eight hours. Leaving Bignblues alone while their owners are at work could cause anxiety and destructive behavior. To avoid such behavior, it might be a good idea to hire a pet sitter or dog walker. Some Gascon Blues seem to deal with the isolation if their family owns another dog since American Blue Gascon Hounds tend to gravitate towards having the company of humans or dogs that are part of the family.

How to Train an American Blue Gascon Hound?

The American Blue Gascon Hound’s hunting instincts rule. Because the dog makes its own choices and decisions while following scents when tracking the scent of prey it might want to take control when its master takes on the role of trainer. The Bignblue must learn the difference between hunting on their own and being at home with a dominant pack leader.

Blue Fascons are highly intelligent and have above average ability to think things through. This means that he is likely to be easy to train with positive reinforcement and learning that there are rewards for good behavior but none for acting out. If Bignblues receive the proper socialization they are likely to think things through as an adult.

How Frequently does an American Blue Gascon Hound Bark?

The American Blue Gascon Hound barks quite a lot, not just to make a noise, but for specific reasons. They are a vocal breed. Bignblues use loud, deep barks to tell those listening what is on its mind. It might be greeting someone, barking to warn its family of imminent danger, fear, separation anxiety, or boredom and attention-seeking if left alone for too long.

The American Blue Gascon Hound has another way to communicate, called baying. This is loud noise somewhere between a bark and a howl, with a likeness to a mournful cry.

What is the need for Mental Stimulation of an American Blue Gascon Hound?

Mental stimulation is essential for an American Blue Gascon Hound to function optimally. It can also prevent anxiety and destructive behavior. American Blue Gascon Hounds are intelligent dogs that need mental and neurological stimulation. Providing mental enrichment for an American Blue Gascon Hound is quite simple, but the benefits are significant. It is anything that activates, enriches, and stimulates the Gascon Blue’s mind. Mental stimulation could be external, using the environment or internal thought. This can include using toys, puzzles, and other interactive toys, and games like scenting games involving hiding treats to be sniffed out. Hide and seek is another perfect way to stimulate American Blue Gascon Hounds.

The benefits of mental enrichment for the American Coonhound are listed below:

• Assists and stimulates the Gascon Blue’s brain growth
• Improves a Blue Gascon Hound’s problem-solving skills
• Builds an American Blue Gascon Hound’s social skills and confidence
• Allows the Gascon Blue to engage in natural and instinctive behaviors
• Mental stimulation allows for happier and more balanced American Blue Gascon Hounds, reducing the risks of depression.

Overall, mental stimulation prevents boredom and resulting destructive behavior, excessive barking, and attempts by American Blue Gascon Hounds to escape.

What are the Breed Standards of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The American Blue Gascon Hound is not recognized as a pure breed by the American Kennel Club, but other organizations like the United Kennel Club do recognize this breed as purebred

Some of the breed standards are listed below:

What is the General Information about the American Blue Gascon Hound? 

The Blue Gascon Hound is an American breed. The breed’s ancestry dates back to the 1700s, in the Gascony region. They arrived in the USA in 1785 when George Washington was gifted seven Grand Bleu de Gascon hounds from France. US breeders later produced the large, old-fashioned, heavy-headed, blue hounds, ultimately registered as the American Blue Gascon Hound. They are insuperable, noble hounds and a very unique and distinct type. The Blue Gascons are well known for their extreme ability and physical characteristics. 

Among the raccoon hunters, the American Blue Gascon Hound is known for trailing and trapping their prey and then using their distinctive howls to let the owner know the job is done, and where they are. The American Gascon Blue has an altogether different life as a companion and pet in its owner’s home. That part of the Bignblue’s life includes playtime with children, yard play with other dogs, cuddles on the couch, and more.

Where to Buy or Adopt an American Blue Gascon Hound?

Choosing a reputable American Blue Gascon Hound breeder is essential. Potential new puppy owners must know that they will get a healthy dog that will not develop problems years later. At the time of this writing there seemed to be only one reputable breeder’s information available. Burr Creek Kennels, Michigan – breeders of American Blue Gascon Hounds.

People who consider adopting or buying an American Blue Gascon Hounds should be on the lookout for puppy mills that advertise they have unlimited numbers of Blue Gascon pups at ridiculously low prices, some even offer discount vouchers for online purchases.

What are the Average Puppy Prices of American Blue Gascon Hound?

The average price for an American Blue Gascon Hound is between $600 and $1,400. Potential buyers might find cheaper Gascon Blues advertised, but they should do their due diligence to ensure they are not dealing with a puppy mill.

The average price of American Blue Gascon Hound puppies is determined by various aspects.

Factors that play roles in the prices for American Blue Gascon Hound puppies include:

• The breeder’s locale
• The sex of the puppy
• The pedigree and attributes of the puppy’s parents
• The age of the puppy
• The puppy’s quality

What are the Rescue Clubs for American Blue Gascon Hounds?

Rescue centers for Blue Gascons seem rare, and the best steps might be to reach out to the American Blue Gascon Hound Association.

Which Dog Breed Organizations Recognize American Blue Gascon Hound?

Dog breed organizations that recognize the American Blue Gascon Hound are listed below:

• United Kennel Club first recognized the American Blue Gascon Hounds in 1912.
• North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
• American Canine Association, Inc
• ABGHA = American Blue Gascon Hound Association
• ACR = American Canine Registry
• APRI = American Pet Registry, Inc.
• CKC = Continental Kennel Club
• DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
• NKC = National Kennel Club

What is the American Blue Gascon Hound History?

The American Blue Gascon Hound resulted from a breeding process after a French nobleman gifted George Washington seven  Grand Bleu de Gascon, popular hunting dogs in France. Breeding to get the perfect scent hound for tracking the scent of animals continued, and the American Gascon Blue Hounds were recognized as a pure breed in 1912.

Which Ancestry does American Blue Gascon Hound Belong to?

The ancestry of the American Blue Gascon Hound was created as an extension of a French breed, the Grand Bleu de Gascon. Both the American and French Gascons are great companions for hunters on expeditions. They are highly skilled at tracking, chasing, and hunting various types of wild game. They share the tendency of other hounds to be more vocal than most other dog breeds. As with other hounds. 

What is the Date of Origin of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

Records about the date of the American Blue Gascon Hound seem a bit vague. The breed developed from the Grand Bleu de Gascon, a French-bred hound that arrived in the US in 1785. A French nobleman, General Lafayette gifted George Washington, the US President at the time, seven of their hounds. Over subsequent years, American versions of the French breed developed. It was not until 1976  when the American Blue Gascon Hound Association was established that the Association set the standards for breeders to meet. Only then was the American Blue Gascon Breed recognized by the Continental Kennel Club and the Dog Registry of America.

What is the Origin of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The American Blue Gascon Hound breed’s origin is in France. After George Washington was gifted seven of the French Grand Bleu de Gascon hounds in 1785, the American version called the American Blue Gascon breed was developed over subsequent years. Unfortunately, the Kennel Club had no category for the Blue Gascon’s size, and the Continental Kennel Club only recognized them in 1976. During those years the French Gascon numbers dwindled in their home country, but their proud ancestry helped grow many different coonhound versions elsewhere. They became the foundation of breeds like the Basset Bleu de Gascogne in the UK, Dumfriesshire in France, and the Bluetick Coonhound in the US.

For What Purpose is the American Blue Gascon Hound Used?

The American Blue Gascon Hound’s purpose is hunting, particularly to track prey by following their scents. Blue Gascons are at the top of the list of the world’s best-hunting dogs who can track anything using their exceptional sense of smell. This dog can traverse rigorous terrain and all types of environmental conditions. Along with the BignBlue’s excellent ability to track scents, their rugged physique, agility, speed, and perseverance are all contributing factors to their hunting skills.

Is the American Blue Gascon Hound a Hunting Dog?

Yes, the American Blue Gascon Hound dog is a hunting dog. The hound can trail its prey with its nose to the ground singlemindedly. Although they were bred to track and tree small animals like raccoons and possums, the Gascon Blues can also track deer, mountain lions, and bears.

What are the Other Names of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The other names for the American Blue Gascon Hound are Blue Gascon, Gascon Blue, and Bignblue.

Where does the Name of American Blue Gascon Hound come from?

The name American Blue Gascon Hound comes from the region of its origin. Although bred in the USA, the ancestors were seven French Grand Bleu de Gascon hounds gifted to George Washington in 1785. They were from a breed of hunting dogs used in the mid and Southwest of France, particularly in the Gascony region. Their French ancestors were honored when the USA breed was named the American Blue Gascon Hound.

What are the Common Nicknames of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The common nickname of the American Blue Gascon Hound is Bignblue.

What is the Scientific Name of the American Blue Gascon Hound?

American Blue Gascon Hound Scientific Classification is Listed Below:

What is the Average Maintenance for the American Blue Gascon Hound?

The cost of owning an American Blue Gascon Hound is not straightforward math because a number of things must be taken into consideration. These include the cost of the dog itself, food, veterinary expenses, supplies, training, licensing, insurance, grooming, and more. However, there are averages to work on.

An American Blue Gascon Hound puppy is likely to cost between $600 and $1,400 with an average of $1,000.

The first year of an American Blue Gascon Hound’s life is more costly because of more veterinary care. However, vet care costs could be higher throughout a Blue Gascon’s life than any other expenses.

Below is a list of averages:

• Typical veterinarian expenses when owning an American Blue Gascon Hound: $45 – $85 per month, including a once-off neutering or spaying bill, which is $50 to $400.
• The American Blue Gascon Hound’s vet bills will also include vaccines, $15 to $30.
• An American Blue Gascon Hound’s food requirements are between $40 and $65 per month (see: Best Dry Dog Foods).
• American Blue Gascon Hound training costs from $240 to $600 for private training or $50 to $125 for group training; both refer to a 4 to 6-week course.

How to Name an American Blue Gascon Hound?

Naming an American Blue Gascon Hound might require different criteria than new Gasscon Blue parents might expect. It is never the actual name the pup responds to; instead, it is the sound and how it is said.

The Building Blocks necessary include tone and syllables as listed below::

• American Blue Gascon Hounds respond best to two-syllable names because they are not short enough to be confused with single-syllable command words like sit, come, and down. However, they are not long enough to become puzzling. Simple examples include Sadie, Cupcake, and Buster.
• American Blue Gascon Hound owners set on a specific single-syllable name can go with it, but find a way to stretch the sounds to sound like two, such as “Zack” stretched into “Zaa-hack” and using two different tones when calling him.
• American Blue Gascon Hounds respond most positively to high-pitched, excited, and happy sounds when calling them and soothing, quiet sounds when they get nervous or overzealous.
• Some American Blue Gascon Hound parents find their Gascon Blues respond and recognize their names better if they say it in a sing-songy voice.

What are the Most Common Female American Blue Gascon Hound names?

American Blue Gascon Hound girl names are also mostly two-syllable names, and the top names, inspired by their French ancestors are listed below:

• Abella – The breath of life
• Marien – A graceful star of the sea
• Raissa – She who thinks; a thinker
• Lea –  Person who is bringing good news
• Abrielle –  A woman of God

What are the Most Common Male American Blue Gascon Hound names?

American Blue Gascon Hound boy names are also mostly two-syllable names, and the top names, inspired by their French ancestors are listed below:

• Andrae –  A hard-working defender; manly
• Astin – A strong and trustworthy leader
• Saber –  The French word for sword
• Liam –  A warrior of strong will
• Marcel –  Being strong as a hammer

What are the Different Types of American Blue Gascon Hounds?

There are no other types of American Blue Gascon Hound. However, there are several other hunting hound breeds registered with the United Kennel Club.

What are the Similar Dog Breeds to American Blue Gascon Hounds?

• Grand Bleu de Gascon – The Grand Bleu de Gascogne is a breed of dog of the scenthound type, originating in France and used for hunting in packs. Today’s breed is the descendant of a very old type of large hunting dog and is an important breed in the ancestry of many other hounds
• Basset Bleu de Gascogne – The Basset Bleu de Gascogne, also known as the Blue Gascony Basset, is a long-backed, short-legged breed of dog of the hound type. The breed originated in the Middle Ages, descended from the Grand Bleu de Gascogne
• Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound – The Bavarian Mountain Hound is a breed of dog from Germany. As a scent hound, it has been used in Germany since the early 20th century to trail wounded game.
• Italian Greagle – The Italian Greagle is a cross between an Italian Greyhound and a Beagle.
• Styrian Coarse Haired Hound – The Styrian Haired is a breed of medium-sized hound dog originated in the Austrian province of Styria. It is bred as a scenthound, for hunting boar in mountainous terrain
• Bluetick Coonhound – Blueticks are speedy and compact nocturnal hunters named for the mottled (or ‘ticked’) black-and-blue pattern of the glossy coat
• Basset Hound – The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog in the hound family. The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for the purpose of hunting hare.

What are the Similar Maintenance Dog Breeds to American Blue Gascon Hounds?

Some of the dog breeds with similar maintenance needs as American Blue Gascon Hound are listed below:

• Appenzeller Mountain Dog – the least common of the Alpine breeds. They are high energy animals bred for herding
• Austrian Black and Tan Hound – a hunting dog from the mountains of Austria. The breed is very rare outside its home country.
• Azores Cattle Dog – originally bred to guard livestock and personal property.

What are Similar-sized Dog Breeds to American Blue Gascon Hounds?

Dog Breeds of similar size as the American Blue Gascon Hound breed are listed below:

• Rafeiro Do Alentejo: large, mastiff-type dog with a massive, bear-like head. It does well with children who respect him and know how to treat him. Weight 77 to 99 pounds
• Bucovina Shepherd: The Bucovina Shepherd is a livestock guardian from the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. Weight 60 to 110 Pounds
• Great Bernese: Stoic and striking large dogs known for being well-mannered and calm. Weight 70 to 110 pounds.