Low and lazy, the Basset Hound is a family favourite with a calm and friendly nature.
Bred in France as hunting dogs, Basset Hounds were selectively bred to achieve a short dog that was able to sniff out their targets through low bush.
Basset Hounds are a large dog on disproportionately short legs. They weigh between 20 and 35 kgs but are around 33 to 38 cm high. They come in traditional 'hound' colours, including tricolour (black, tan, and white), tan and white and lemon and white.
Basset Hound Facts & Characteristics
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Basset |
| Origin | France |
| Bred for | Hunting |
| Size | Weight 18 to 35kgs, Height 33 to 38cm |
| Weight range | 18 to 35kgs |
| Colours | Tricolour, tan and white, lemon, and white |
| Life expectancy | 8 to 11 years |
| Coat | Short, sheds |
| Temperament | Calm, playful, friendly |
| Exercise requirements | Medium-low, can be lazy but do require daily exercise |
| Best suited for | Families with experienced dog people as can be difficult to train |
| Apartment friendly | Yes |
Personality
Basset Hounds are described as calm and friendly, making them a popular choice for families with children. They can be lazy, so encouraging exercise is important. That said, their short legs (caused by a genetic mutation which causes achondroplasia) makes them prone to various injuries and conditions affecting the bones including patella luxation and elbow dysplasia, so gentle exercise is recommended.
It can be difficult to get the Basset’s attention when they’ve found an interesting scent, which can make them difficult to train. They enjoy being around other dogs and people and may suffer from loneliness and separation anxiety in a household where people are out a lot of the time.
Their laid-back nature makes them a reasonable candidate for apartment living, but they do have quite a loud bark, so take this into consideration when deciding to bring a Basset into your life.
Socialising Basset puppies from an early age means getting them used to other dogs, animals, people, and different environments. This helps them grow up to be well adjusted adults.
Grooming
Basset Hounds have a short dense coat that does shed. Brushing once or twice a week helps keep the skin and coat in top condition. It also provides and opportunity to check the skin for signs of infection or allergies, which they are susceptible to.
With long, floppy ears that are prone to infection, regular ear cleaning with an appropriate cleaning solution is advised. Basset hounds also have many folds of skin, including around the eyes and face, so cleaning and drying these regularly helps to prevent them from becoming infected and irritated. Flea prevention is recommended all year around, as well as tick prevention if you are in a tick endemic area.
Feeding
When choosing a food for your Basset Hound, select a premium food appropriate to your dog’s age and life stage. Basset Hounds are prone to obesity, so follow the feeding guides carefully on the food to avoid overfeeding.
Make sure your dog always has a supply of fresh, clean water available.
Common health concerns
As already mentioned, Basset Hounds can be prone to skin sensitivity, allergies, and infections.
A Basset Hounds droopy eyes give them their trademark “sad” facial expression, but can also make them susceptible to eye problems, including dry eye and entropion. Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls in, causing irritation to the eyeball.
Basset Hounds are also susceptible to gastrointestinal problems including gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This is a life-threatening condition where the stomach becomes bloated with food and gas.
Hip and elbow dysplasia as well as Intravertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) are also problems that can occur in Basset Hounds.
Popular Basset Hound Names
- George
- Alfie
- Daisy
- Fred
- Maisie
- Winston
- Arthur
- Ava
- Basil
- Beau
Did you know?
The Basset Hound has been the face of “Hush Puppies” shoes since the 1960’s. The first and most famous Bassets were Velvet and Jasmine, owned by Chuck Greb who was the grandson of the founder of Greb Industries, the company that created Hush Puppies. Velvet and Jasmine tragically went missing in 1973.
Basset Hound FAQs
Where can I get a Basset Hound?
Although they are a pure breed of dog, you may be able to find a Basset Hound or cross breed through a breed specific rescue. Also be sure to check out your local pet rescue shelter where you might find your new best friend.