The Basset Hound is easily recognizable with its short legs, drooping eyes, and long ears. The name “basset” comes from the French term “bas,” which means “low thing.” Some people also refer to the Basset Hound as a hush puppy or a small Basset. It is known for its peaceful and non-confrontational nature, making it a beloved choice for dog enthusiasts. This breed is famous for its exceptional sense of smell and its passion for following scents. Despite its hunting background, the Basset Hound is versatile and excels in obedience, tracking, and conformation. It can hunt alone or with other dogs due to its mild temperament. The Basset Hound has a short and silky coat that can withstand various weather conditions. Whether alone or with its family, this breed is content chasing small animals.
Below, we look at Basset Hound dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Basset Hound, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Basset Hounds!
| Dog Breed | Basset Hound |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 45-60 lbs (average) |
| Height | 11-14″ (average) |
| Location | France |
| Ancestry | basset d’artois, basset normand |
| Date of Origin | 1500s |
| Group | trailing rabbits and hare |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $300 – $500 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Basset Hound’s name comes from the French word “bas”, which means “low thing”. It is believed to have originated in France around the 1500s. The Basset Hound’s ancestors include the Basset d’Artois, the Basset Normand, and other hounds with short legs. Originally, it was bred for hunting small animals, particularly rabbits and hares. The development of the Basset Hound in the 1500s is not well-documented, but it is often credited to the Friars of the French Abbey of St. Hubert. They aimed to create a slow-moving breed that could be followed on hunts. The Basset Hound was commonly used by commoners who followed on foot due to its excellent scenting abilities. It is believed that in the late 1800s and again in 1930, the Basset Hound was crossed with the Bloodhound to increase its size. The Basset Hound has been featured in various forms of popular culture. It has appeared as a character named Flash in “The Dukes of Hazzard” and has been referenced in songs like Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog”. There have been numerous appearances of this breed on television, with one notable example being a Basset Hound named Sherlock. The Basset Hound made its debut at the Paris Dog Show in 1863 and was also shown in England in 1866 and 1875. It was presented at the Westminster Kennel Club in 1884. In 1935, the Basset Hound Club of America was established, and the breed was officially recognized by the AKC.
🐕 Basset Hound Appearance
The massive physique, enormous paws, drooping eyes, and long, floppy ears of the Basset Hound would make it tough to miss. The Basset Hound is a breed with short legs and a hefty physique that is comparable to bigger breeds. This dog is tough enough to do any kind of field work. The Basset Hound has a head that is well-proportioned and big, coming within the category of medium breadth, and a short, silky coat that is dense enough to resist all conditions. It has a deep chest and a large sternum in front of the legs. The shoulders and elbows of the breed are near to the sides of the chest and are in a muscular stance. The paws of the Basset Hound are large and feature hard pads. The tail has a small curvature but is not docked. The Basset Hound stands solidly on its hind legs despite having elastic and loose-fitting skin. The ears are pulled forward, long, and low-set. This breed’s sorrowful eyes are dark brown.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Pied, Black, White, Red, Brown |
⚡ Fun Fact: Basset Hound dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don’t mind being left alone for a few hours either.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Basset Hound
The very clever Basset Hound breed is capable of deceiving his owners into giving him attention by utilizing his sad, drooping eyes. The Basset Hound enjoys being able to win people over and sticking by their side. The Basset Hound is a friendly breed that gets along with kids, other dogs, and other animals. The Basset Hound is a friendly breed that thrives in environments where there are other dogs. The Basset Hound is calm by nature and pleasant with people. They do not represent a threat to them. The Basset Hound often follows his nose on his travels, following and inspecting frequently at a moderate speed. The Basset Hound occasionally exhibits stubbornness if he does not want to obey, although temperament problems are uncommon with him.
🤝 Are Basset Hounds Friendly or Aggressive?
Basset Hound dogs are known for their friendly nature, making them a great choice for families. They get along well with strangers, children, and even other animals like cats and dogs. If you’re looking to add more furry friends to your family or want to participate in dog meetups, the Basset Hound is a good option. Additionally, these dogs are well-suited for elderly individuals, as they make great companions and offer a calm and gentle presence.
This breed is known for being:
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Devoted
- Gentle
- Tempered
- Sweet
- Tenacious
🐩 Basset Hound Care & Maintenance
To keep the Basset Hound clean and sanitary, considerable upkeep is required. The short, stiff coat of the Basset Hound has to be brushed once a week with a rubber curry brush or a firm, bristle brush. Regular face washing or wiping is advised, especially around the lips because of the profuse drooling. Every four to six weeks at the absolute least, and more frequently if required, the Basset Hound should be washed. The Basset Hound is well recognized for having a lot of lost hair and is not hypoallergenic. He is known to drool a little and will need to be washed frequently due to his body’s many creases. The musky odor of the Basset Hound can be hard to get rid of. His greasy skin is to blame for this stink. His ears should be cleansed once a week as they prone to collect germs because of their small. In order to avoid breaking and overgrowth, his nails should be cut every three to four weeks. To prevent weight gain, it’s crucial to give your Basset Hound regular exercise. It is preferable for the Basset Hound to have to work for their food. The Basset Hound would thrive in a setting where he is free to wander and engage in physical activity. He could live in an apartment as long as he has access to regular walks and playtime. The Basset Hound can survive in a range of conditions because to his coat.
Basset Hound dogs have a moderate level of shedding, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Regular brushing can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The extent of shedding can vary depending on the dog’s health and the specific breed. As for bath time, Basset Hounds typically require bathing every 4-6 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or roughly $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Basset Hound dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 7 miles per week, which equates to about 30 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Basset Hound dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs. If you live a chilled life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
❤️🩹 Basset Hound Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Basset Hound Dog Breed can be:
- Gastric Torsion
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Thrombopathia
While minor concerns include:
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Glaucoma
🤧 Important: Is Basset Hound hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Basset Hound.
⚡ Basset Hound Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Basset Hound a great choice for families with young children?
The Basset Hound is a great choice for families with young children because of their gentle and non-confrontational personality. They are known for being good-natured and getting along well with other animals, including children. They are sociable and thrive in the presence of multiple dogs, making them a suitable breed for families with young children.
Is the Basset Hound breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Basset Hound breed is considered suitable for apartment living. While they have a strong hunting instinct and enjoy chasing scents, they do not require excessive exercise. A daily walk or moderate playtime is generally sufficient to keep them happy and content.
How much exercise does a Basset Hound require compared to other breeds?
Compared to other breeds, the Basset Hound does not require as much exercise. They are a low-energy breed and are content with a moderate amount of physical activity. However, it is important to provide mental stimulation and engage their hunting instincts through activities like scent games and tracking exercises.
Is the Basset Hound breed known for being good with other pets?
Yes, the Basset Hound breed is known for being good with other pets. They have a friendly and sociable nature, making them compatible with other dogs and animals. Proper socialization from an early age is important to ensure positive interactions with other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Basset Hound?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Basset Hound include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, English Bulldog, and Shih Tzu. These breeds typically have shorter coats and require minimal grooming. However, it is important to note that all dogs require basic care and attention.
What are the common health issues that Basset Hounds are prone to?
Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, intervertebral disc disease, and obesity. Their long, droopy ears can make them more susceptible to ear infections, and their short legs put them at a higher risk for joint and spinal problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help manage these potential health issues.
Are Basset Hounds known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Basset Hounds can be somewhat stubborn and independent, which can make them a bit more challenging to train compared to some other breeds. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement methods, they can be trained successfully. Early socialization and obedience training are important to ensure they grow into well-behaved dogs.
Are Basset Hounds more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Basset Hounds can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty. It is important to gradually introduce them to alone time and provide mental stimulation and interactive toys to help alleviate separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Basset Hound that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Basset Hound that are suitable for people with allergies include the Basenji, Portuguese Water Dog, and Irish Water Spaniel. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats or low-shedding characteristics, which can help reduce allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Basset Hound are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Basset Hound would be a better fit. Breeds such as the Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, and French Bulldog are smaller in size and can adapt well to limited living spaces. However, it is important to consider their exercise and mental stimulation needs.
Is the Basset Hound breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Basset Hound breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their gentle and patient nature makes them suitable companions for children with special needs. However, as with any dog, supervision and proper introductions are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the dog.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Basset Hound?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Basset Hound are moderate. They have a short, fine coat that is versatile in all weather conditions. Regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting is recommended, and their long ears should be checked and cleaned to prevent infections. They are moderate shedders, so some hair around the house should be expected.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Basset Hound dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
