The Basset Hound is a medium-sized breed of dog originating from France, known for its droopy ears, short legs, long snout, wrinkled skin, and short coat.
One of the most popular hunting dog breeds, Bassets rank second only to the Bloodhound in terms of powerful scenting ability and tracking capability.
This breed is easily identifiable thanks to its velvety ears, but it also stands out for its distinctive and charming bark, as well as possessing a unique character.
Despite being known for stubbornness, Basset Hounds are also extremely dedicated and loyal. They are typically docile and calm at home, making them excellent family dogs for the right owners.
Group: Hound
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Coat: Short and smooth
Coat Color: Combinations of black, brown, tan, white, lemon, mahogany, and red
Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Temperament: Affectionate, stubborn, playful, sweet-tempered, friendly
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin: France
Breed Overview
Basset Hound History
Originally bred in France and Belgium, Basset Hounds are believed to have emerged when monks from the Abbey of Saint-Hubert crossed ancient French dog breeds to create a low-statured hunting dog.
In fact, the word “bas” translates in French to “low” and sometimes even “dwarf.” The plan was to create a dog that could navigate rugged terrain while being followed by a human hunting partner on foot, tracking rabbits and deer.
Due to their tracking precision, Bassets became a popular choice for French aristocrats who practiced hunting as a pastime.
Basset Hound Care
While Bassets need less exercise than many other hunting dogs, they require significant time and patience from their owners when it comes to training.
These strong-willed and stubborn dogs tend to ignore lessons in favor of play, treats, and other fun distractions. However, with consistency and positive rewards, your Basset can learn desirable behaviors at home.
Exercise
They may not be the most athletic (or fastest) dogs, but that doesn’t mean your Basset Hound doesn’t need regular exercise.
These dogs thrive on a routine that includes about 30 minutes to an hour of moderate daily exercise. Bassets are known for their endurance, and options like long walks are a great way to keep this breed active.
They are also very playful, so running around the yard with toys and family members will likely become a favorite activity. Not only will exercise help keep your Basset healthy, but it can also help prevent weight gain, which these food-motivated dogs are especially prone to.
Training
Hygiene
Although they have short coats, Basset Hounds require regular grooming sessions.
To reduce shedding and keep your dog’s skin healthy, plan for weekly brushings with a soft brush or shedding tool. It’s also important to include occasional baths as needed when your Basset’s coat is visibly dirty. Like all dog breeds, Basset Hounds also need their nails trimmed and their teeth brushed regularly.
Another essential regular hygiene step for this breed is checking the ears for dirt and buildup. Dogs with droopy ears are more prone to ear infections than others, and Basset’s particularly long ears retain moisture at high rates.
Clean your dog’s ears weekly with a pet ear cleaning solution and a cotton ball, and check for signs of infection like redness, irritation, swelling, unusual odor, or dogs shaking their head and scratching their ears.
If you suspect your pet is ill, immediately call your veterinarian. For health-related inquiries, always consult your veterinarian as they have examined your pet, know the pet’s health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.
Problemas de Saúde Comuns
Common Health Issues The Basset Hound is generally a healthy breed, but, like most purebreds, is still susceptible to certain hereditary health problems.
Responsible breeders strive to maintain high standards, testing parent dogs for genetic conditions before breeding. Whenever you adopt a puppy, ask your breeder to provide the litter’s medical history.
The following are common conditions associated with Basset Hounds:
- Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: Dysplasia is caused by a malformation in the joints, and severe cases may require surgery to help your dog live comfortably.
- Hypothyroidism: Also known as underactive thyroid, this condition prevents the body from producing normal levels of important hormones. It can cause weight gain, lethargy, and skin and coat problems.
- Glaucoma: This painful eye condition causes pressure inside the eye, requiring veterinary care as soon as possible.
- Luxating Patella: Similar to a “trick knee” in humans, this condition causes your dog’s knee to pop out of place.
- Bleeding Disorders: Diseases like Von Willebrand Disease and platelet disorders can prevent the dog’s blood from clotting normally, so owners need to be proactive in preventing injuries.
Feeding and Nutrition
The Basset Hound should do well on commercially available high-quality dog foods or homemade diets (under veterinary supervision). Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.
As with all breeds, treats should be given in moderation, and the diet should be controlled to avoid weight gain or obesity-related issues.
Since Bassets have an especially strong tendency for weight gain, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian to determine a healthy diet and portion plan based on your dog’s specific age, weight, and activity level.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Basset Hound
Talk to other Basset Hound owners, reputable breeders, and fan groups to learn more before choosing this breed.
If you’re sure the Basset is right for you, start your search at the local shelter. It is unusual to find purebred and pedigree animals in shelters, but being a hunting dog, sometimes they are surrendered when they are no longer efficient at their job.
If planning to adopt from a breeder, it’s essential to do your research. Find a responsible breeder who promptly provides you with the litter’s medical history, introduces the parent dogs, and shows they are raised in a comfortable and safe indoor environment. Basset Hound puppies typically cost between $500 and $1200, but prices can be higher depending on pedigree and availability.
The national breed club, The Basset Hound Club of America, can help you find your next best friend. Here are a few rescues that work with this breed:
Basset Hound Overview
The Basset Hound is a dog breed known for its sturdy body, long ears, and characteristic sad look.
Originating from France, it is a hunting dog that stands out for its keen sense of smell and affectionate temperament. With a calm and gentle personality, it is an excellent companion for families, although it can be stubborn in training.
Despite its tendency for laziness, it needs moderate exercise to stay healthy.
Considered a medium to large-sized dog, the Basset Hound adapts well to life in small spaces as long as it has opportunities to exercise regularly.
- Gentle and charming temperament
- Loyal and dedicated
- Great with children and other pets
- It can be stubborn and difficult to train
- Coat with a high level of shedding
- Prone to ear infections