Basset Hound dogs

The Basset Hound is also known as: None

Fast Facts

Group classification: Hound	Country of origin: France	Date of origin: 16th century
Weight (M): 45 - 60 lb	Height (M): 13 - 15"	Life expectancy: 9 - 12 years
Weight (F): 40 - 55 lb	Height (F): <14"

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General Description of the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a short-legged, strong boned dog bred to track and hunt. The head is of medium width with the length being longer than the width. The skin on the head is loose and floppy. The muzzle is deep, strong and not at all sniped. Eyes are sunken, with a prominent haw. Eye color ranges from light to dark brown. Ears are very long and set low with slightly inward curled ends. The teeth are even and strong, and there is a very prominent dewlap around the mouth. The body is markedly long and straight, the tail long and carried high. The coat texture is short-haired and smooth and can vary in color. Shades of white, black and brown are common for the Basset Hound. The dog is heavier in bone than any other breed of its size.

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Basset Hound Temperament

The Basset Hound is a gentle and devoted dog that is ideal for households with children. They are brave yet mild in temperament, friendly and obedient when trained properly. These dogs can be sensitive and require gentle but firm handling. They enjoy working for positive reinforcement. The dog is deliberate and inquisitive in its play, and enjoys exploring large areas at its own pace. Because they have a penchant for following scent, they should be kept either in a fenced yard or on a leash when being walked.

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Caring for a Basset Hound

Because the Basset Hound coat is smooth, short and weatherproof, very little grooming is required. Use a brush with firm bristles and only wash the dog when it is dirty. Bassets do shed quite a bit, and a quick regular brushing can help alleviate the level of shedding. Because the ears are large and sensitive, it's very important to keep them clean. The nails will need regular trimming also. Basset Hounds need regular exercise but nothing too strenuous. A nice daily stroll is plenty to keep your Basset happy and healthy. Recurring health problems in this breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, von Willebrand’s disease, gastric torsion, entropion, ectropion, osteochondritis dissecans and thrombopathy. Patellar luxation can also occur in this breed.