Basset Hound

Despite his short legs and stout body, the ever-popular Basset Hound boasts strength and stamina to rival that of big dogs.

Temperament

The good-natured and affectionate Basset Hound is patient with children and gets along well with other dogs. The loyal Basset is an exceptional scenthound used to hunt small to medium-sized game, including rabbits, birds, fox and deer.

Despite his charming qualities, the Basset Hound is stubborn and strong-willed, which can make training difficult. Early, regular training and socialization from puppyhood can help overcome this obstacle.

Characteristics

Basset Hounds are easily recognized by their short legs, long, droopy ears and soulful eyes.

The short legs and longer body move effortlessly, but the Basset is not necessarily fast.

Lifespan

12 to 13 years

Colors

Bassets can be a wide range of colors, including black and white; black, brown and white; black, tan and white; black, white and brown; black, white and tan; brown, black and white; lemon and white; mahogany and white; and red and white.

Shedding

As moderate shedders, grooming Bassets several times a week will help keep it under control.

Health

The Basset Hound has a high risk of obesity. He also has a higher risk for ear infections, hip and elbow dysplasia, bleeding disorders, glaucoma, hypothyroidism and luxating patella.

Responsible breeders screen their stock for such conditions to help produce the healthiest Bassets possible.

Best Dog Food for Basset Hound Dogs & Puppies

Adult Basset Hounds will do well on a complete and balanced dog food. Basset Hound puppies should eat a complete and balanced puppy food for their first year of life. Puppy food has all the essential nutrients Bassets need for their growth and development.

History

The Basset Hound hails from France and Belgium. The breed is thought to be a cross of older French breeds by friars. Bassets were bred to be scenthounds who could lead hunters by foot to prey such as rabbit and deer. Their accuracy as scenthounds made them a popular breed among the French aristocracy.

Facts

• The Basset Hound may have developed from genetic dwarf dogs from litters of French hunting hounds.
• In French, the word “bas” means “low.”
• It’s thought that Lafayette gifted George Washington Basset Hounds following the American Revolution.
• A 1928 issue of Time magazine featured a story on the 52^nd-annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, written from a Basset Hound puppy’s perspective.