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Wrinkles, waddle, and a whole lot of heart: if you've ever encountered a Basset Hound, you know there's nothing quite like it. These low-slung, long-eared comedians of the canine world possess a unique blend of melancholy charm and unwavering determination (especially when a tasty scent is involved).
Those long, velvety ears and soulful eyes have captured hearts worldwide, making the Basset Hound one of America's most recognizable dog breeds. While their mournful expression might suggest otherwise, Basset Hounds are natural comedians with a gentle spirit and unwavering loyalty to their families. These short-legged hunters have evolved from skilled rabbit trackers to beloved family companions, bringing joy and laughter to homes across the globe.
Whether you're considering adding a Basset Hound to your family or simply want to learn more about these noble hounds, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the breed. Prepare to be charmed as we delve into the world of the Basset Hound, a breed that proves good things come in low packages.
Quick Basset Hound Facts
Name: Basset Hound (often spelled incorrectly as bassett hound or baset hound)
Origin: France
Size: 11-15 inches tall at the shoulder, 50-70 pounds
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Appearance: Long body, short legs, drooping ears, and loose skin
Temperament: Gentle, patient, and good-natured
Compatibility: Excellent with children and other pets
Intelligence: Smart but independent-minded
Exercise & Energy: Moderate energy levels, daily walks needed
Grooming Needs: Moderate, regular ear cleaning essential
Training: Can be stubborn, needs patient training
Health: Prone to several hereditary conditions
Highlights: Known for their exceptional tracking abilities and melodious howl
What Makes Basset Hounds Great
Basset Hounds, with their droopy ears, soulful eyes, and charming waddle, have captured hearts since their origins as French hunting dogs in the Middle Ages - these gentle, short-legged companions combine the best qualities of both working dogs and affectionate family pets.
Perfect family dogs: Patient and tolerant by nature, Basset Hounds excel in family environments where their calm demeanor and natural gentleness make them exceptional companions for children, easily weathering the occasional rough play or loud noises without becoming anxious or aggressive.
Apartment-friendly: Though they’re deceptively large because of their long bodies, Basset Hounds are surprisingly well-suited to apartment living, as they're generally quiet, have moderate exercise needs, and spend much of their time contentedly lounging around their living space.
Social butterflies: Basset Hounds typically display remarkable social grace with other animals, thanks to their pack-hunting heritage which has instilled a natural inclination for companionship, making them excellent additions to multi-pet households.
Melodious voices: Their distinctive baying voice, while potentially loud, is a characteristic prized by breed enthusiasts who appreciate this melodious reminder of the breed's noble hunting heritage and their ongoing role as skilled scent hounds.
Low-energy companions: Unlike many hunting breeds that require extensive exercise, Basset Hounds maintain a relatively relaxed energy level, preferring moderate walks and plenty of sniffing time over intense physical activity, making them ideal for less active owners.
Strong sense of smell: Their legendary sense of smell, surpassed only by their Bloodhound cousins, is enhanced by their long ears that help sweep scent particles toward their nose and their loose skin that helps trap scents, making them exceptional tracking dogs even in modern times.
Basset Hound Appearance
The Basset Hound's distinctive appearance makes them one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. Their long, low-set body, combined with those characteristic drooping ears and wrinkled brow, creates an unmistakable silhouette that captures attention wherever they go.
Basset Hound Size
Adult Basset Hounds typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, despite standing only 11 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. Their unique body structure features short, powerful legs supporting a long, heavy body. While they may be low to the ground, Basset Hounds are substantial dogs who require careful handling to protect their long backs.
Basset Hound Coat
Basset Hounds sport a smooth, short coat that comes in several color combinations. The most common Basset Hound colors include tricolor (black, brown, and white), red and white, and lemon and white. Their coat is dense and weather-resistant, a reminder of their hunting heritage, requiring moderate grooming to maintain its healthy appearance.
Be prepared for "Basset glitter"! These charming dogs are notorious shedders, so regular brushing is essential. You'll likely find their short hairs clinging to everything you own, so keep a lint roller handy and embrace the fur as a new fashion accessory.
Temperament
Basset Hounds are renowned for their gentle, patient disposition. These easy-going dogs combine a clown's sense of humor with a philosopher's calm demeanor, making them delightful family companions.
Personality
Despite their somewhat melancholy expression, Basset Hounds are cheerful dogs with a notable stubborn streak. They approach life at their own pace and possess an endearing ability to appear selectively deaf when it suits them, especially during training sessions.
Basset Hound with Your Children and Family
These patient dogs excel in families with children. Their tolerant nature and sturdy build make them ideal playmates for kids of all ages. However, their long backs require protection from rough handling, so supervision is important during playtime.
Basset Hound and Other Animals
Basset Hounds bring their pack-hunting heritage into modern family life, displaying remarkable social skills that make them natural companions for both canine and feline housemates. Their gentle, easygoing temperament combined with their inherent understanding of pack dynamics allows them to form harmonious relationships with other pets, though early socialization helps reinforce these tendencies.
Caring for your Basset Hound
Keeping your Basset Hound healthy and happy requires a thoughtful approach that addresses their distinctive physical characteristics and breed-specific needs. From maintaining their long, droopy ears to protecting their unique spine structure, these charming hounds need regular grooming, appropriate exercise, and consistent health monitoring to prevent common breed-related issues. A well-planned care routine that includes ear cleaning, weight management to prevent strain on their short legs and long back, and regular veterinary check-ups will help ensure your Basset Hound remains a joyful and healthy companion for years to come.
Grooming
Though Basset Hounds sport a relatively low-maintenance short coat, their unique physical features - particularly their long, pendulous ears and deep facial folds - demand consistent care to prevent common health issues like ear infections and skin fold dermatitis. Their grooming routine should focus on these distinctive traits, with regular ear cleaning, wrinkle maintenance, and weekly brushing sessions that not only keep their coat healthy but also provide an opportunity to bond with your droopy-eared companion.
Training
Training a Basset Hound requires understanding their unique personality. They have a mind of their own and a nose that often leads them astray. However, their love of food is legendary and makes them highly trainable with the right methods.
Positive reinforcement is the most effective approach; use small, tasty treats to reward good behavior. Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain their interest. Early socialization is crucial for developing a well-mannered dog. Remember, consistency is key, and patience will be your greatest asset.
Living Needs
Though substantial in size, Basset Hounds are surprisingly adaptable to various living situations, including apartments. They're not exactly known for their high-energy antics, preferring leisurely strolls and long naps.
However, don't mistake their relaxed demeanor for a desire for solitude. These dogs are true couch potatoes, but they want to be your couch potato. Leaving them alone for too long can lead to some serious sulking—which may include destructive behavior and howling. A Basset Hound’s motto is “Home is where my humans are.”
Feeding
Monitor your Basset Hound's food intake carefully, as they tend to gain weight easily. Their large appetites combined with a slow metabolism can lead to obesity, which can exacerbate health issues. Measure portions and limit treats to maintain a healthy weight.
Basset Hound’s and Their Health
Basset Hounds, like many purebred dogs, are prone to certain health conditions. Understanding these potential issues helps owners provide better care and early intervention when needed.
Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD)
Their long backs make Basset Hounds susceptible to IVDD – Intervertebral Disk Disease a condition affecting the spine. This painful condition can require surgery and extensive recovery time, with treatment costs ranging from $2,500 to $7,000.
Bloat
Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), poses a serious health risk to Basset Hounds due to their deep-chested structure, and this potentially fatal condition requires immediate emergency intervention to save your dog's life. Understanding the warning signs - such as a distended abdomen, excessive drooling, and unsuccessful attempts to vomit - along with preventive measures like feeding smaller meals throughout the day and avoiding exercise immediately after meals can help protect your Basset Hound from this expensive and life-threatening condition.
Eye Problems
Due to their distinctive droopy eyes and facial structure, Basset Hounds are particularly susceptible to various eye conditions, with entropion - where the eyelid rolls inward and causes painful irritation - being one of the most common and costly issues requiring surgical intervention. Early detection through regular veterinary eye examinations is important, as it can help prevent more serious complications and ensure your Basset Hound maintains healthy vision throughout their life.
Yeast Infections
Basset hounds, with their long, droopy ears and numerous skin folds, are prone to yeast infections, as these folds create ideal conditions for the naturally occurring fungus to thrive. A telltale sign of a yeast infection is a distinctive odor, often described as smelling like Fritos. Other signs include redness, inflammation, itching, and a brown or reddish-brown discharge, particularly around the ears, face, and paws. If the ears are affected, excessive head shaking and scratching may also occur. Keeping skin folds clean and dry is crucial for prevention, using a damp cloth, mild cleanser, and thorough drying afterward
Protecting Your Basset Hound with Pet Insurance
Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive appearance, their exceptional noses, and their boundless enthusiasm for… well, pretty much everything. This includes sniffing out every interesting scent (and sometimes tasting it too, whether it’s a discarded french fry, a suspiciously appealing rock, or your entire batch of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies).
This can sometimes lead to unexpected trips to the vet for things they maybe shouldn't have ingested. The potential consequences of their rock-eating habit could easily cost thousands of dollars if a rock becomes lodged in their digestive tract, requiring surgical removal.
And it's not just their indiscriminate eating habits that can lead to vet visits. Those glorious, long, droopy ears, while undeniably charming, are also prone to infections, often requiring frequent cleanings, medicated drops, and sometimes even more intensive treatment. These ear infections alone can rack up significant costs over a basset's lifetime. Add to that the breed's predisposition to joint issues like hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease, and you can see how veterinary expenses can quickly add up.
Responsible pet ownership for Basset Hounds includes both dedicated care and financial preparation. Be sure you get Basset Hound pet insurance to ensure your droopy-eared companion receives the highest quality veterinary care, without worrying about how much it will cost. Enrolling your Basset Hound in a comprehensive dog insurance plan while they're young and healthy is important, as insurance providers don't cover pre-existing conditions - any health issues that develop before coverage begins. Early enrollment helps ensure that potential hereditary conditions are covered before they manifest.
For the routine maintenance required to keep a basset in top form (ear cleaning solutions, medicated shampoos, nail trims, and regular checkups), a wellness plan can be a practical addition. These optional, non-insurance plans cover preventative care, helping you budget for the ongoing expenses that come with owning a Basset Hound and minimizing the risk of more serious issues down the line. Some plans even cover special treatments that Basset Hounds might need, such as physical therapy for their unique body structure or specialized care for their sensitive spine. With proper insurance coverage, you can focus on enjoying your Basset Hound's charming personality without worrying about unexpected veterinary costs.
History of the Basset Hound
The history of the Basset Hound is inextricably linked to the medieval French landscape. The dense undergrowth of the French countryside presented a challenge for hunters: how to effectively track small game like rabbits through thick vegetation? The answer, developed in medieval France, was the Basset Hound. The name itself, derived from the French word "bas" meaning "low," reveals their defining characteristic: short legs perfectly suited for navigating this challenging terrain.
Monks at the Abbey of St. Hubert, renowned for their breeding programs, developed these exceptional scent hounds, creating a dog that could tirelessly follow a scent while hunters kept pace on foot. This practical breeding resulted in a dog with both extraordinary tracking abilities and a surprisingly gentle disposition.
Getting a Basset Hound
Finding a reputable Basset Hound breeder requires careful research and patience. Look for breeders who perform health testing and are members of the Basset Hound Club of America. Expect to pay between $600 and $1,500 for a well-bred puppy.
Consider adoption as an alternative, as many Basset Hounds end up in rescue organizations. Adult dogs often make wonderful pets and may already have basic training.
Basset Hound FAQs
Do Basset Hounds shed a lot?
Yes. These charming low-riders are notorious shedders, leaving a trail of "basset glitter" wherever they go. Regular brushing is a must, but be prepared to embrace the reality of dog hair as a constant companion.
Are Basset Hound's good apartment dogs?
Despite their size, Basset Hounds adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive adequate exercise and attention.
How much exercise does a Basset Hound need?
While not high-energy dogs, Basset Hounds need daily walks to maintain health and prevent obesity. Aim for 30-60 minutes of activity daily.
Why do Basset Hounds howl?
As scent hounds, howling is part of their hunting heritage. They often vocalize when excited, lonely, or alerting their family to something interesting.
Are Basset Hounds easy to train?
These independent dogs can be stubborn during training. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to success.