Originally bred for hunting small animals, the Basset Hound is easygoing and friendly. They are especially known for their long, velvety ears and innocent looking eyes.
Their long ears sweep off the scent from the floor and help it reach the nose. These study barkers and diggers may be a little lazy. Above all, he is the most recognized dog in the hound world.
Basset Hound Dog Breed Overview
| Group: | Hound |
| Size: | Large (40-65 pounds) |
| Lifespan: | 12-13 years |
| Best Suited For: | Families |
| Temperament: | Devoted, Affectionate, Friendly |
| Exercise Needs: | Moderate |
| Drooling Potential: | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | Moderate |
| Similar Breeds: | Beagle, Bulldog, Bichon Frise |
1. Basic Features
The most famous breed of the hound family, the basset hound is short-legged and long in shape. They were originally bred to hunt rabbits due to their excellent sense of smell. Basset hounds are generally bicolor or tricolor. Though they are short, Bassets are large and long.
They have loose skin hanging which often results in the dog’s looking sad. Their coat may be long but is short haired. They may be Tan and white or a mixture of black, tan and white.
2. Basset Hound Origin
These dogs were first developed in France to hunt down rabbits. Basset means “low” in French and here it refers to the dog’s height. They became famous among aristocrats who kept the dog for hunting.
In the early 19th century the Basset Hounds came to the US and became a great hit. They Bagan to be kept as a companion soon after than a hunter.
They primarily became famous after appearing in the Hush Puppies commercial.
3. The Personality of Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is good-natured and loving. He is known to be friendly with everyone. He is famous for his innocent eyes and his gaze. Bassets are intelligent and know how to win people’s heart. He is an independent thinker and follows his nose.
Bassets may be a little stubborn and difficult to deal with at times.
4. Basset Hound Behavior
Bassets love the company of people. They love children and other dogs. The dog can resort to barking and digging when bored. It is important to train your dog while he is a puppy. Socializing him early in his life is also very important.
They have a strong hunting urge and it is important to confine them within a yard in order to keep them safe.
5. Exercise Requirements
Basset Hounds are a little lazy may not be very enthusiastic to play and exercise. Well, they may require some exercise to stay healthy. A daily walk would be to enough for them.
They are generally couch potatoes and are ideal for apartment living. A fenced yard is recommended for them as they have a tendency to listen to their nose and follow scents.
6. Diet Needs
How your Basset should be fed depends on his size, age, and daily activity. Bassets do well on any kind of diet as long as it is fulfilling their nutrient requirements. They should be fed twice daily.
Basset Hounds tend to get overweight with time so it is important to ensure that he is not fed too much and only what he needs.
Too many treats can also cause them to gain weight.
7. Trainability
Training a Basset Hound may be a difficult task as they are very independent. They tend to follow their own instincts as they were made to hunt. They are not very pleased to follow someone else’s commands.
It takes a little patience and consistency to train a Basset. Previous experience with training dogs may be helpful here. Due to his stubbornness, he may fall into trouble. So, it is important to train him for obedience. Early socialization is also recommended so that the dog is used to all kinds of people and situations.
8. Common Health Problems
Bassets are prone to many genetic health conditions. Due to their ears being long, they are prone to infections. It is important to check your dog’s ears time and again to look for infections.
Bassets are also prone to bloat. This problem may also become serious if not paid heed to. They are also prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bleeding disorders. Taking your dog to regular vet visits seems like a good idea.
It is not necessary that all Basset Hounds will have these genetic health conditions but it is always important to be safe.
9. Who should Adopt a Basset Hound?
Basset Hounds are friendly creatures and love other animals and children. They do well in homes with other dogs and little children. Bassets can also live well in apartments as they do not require very strenuous exercise. However, it is important that any open space has a fence.
Bassets love people and are generally couch potatoes. This breed works great for families!