Basset Hound – Everything You Need To Know!

Basset Hounds are slow, loving dogs with long ears and a mastery of the “puppy dog eyes.” As animals that can be a bit lazy, Basset Hounds love lounging around the house, but when they get a hint of a scent, they’ll be up and ready to track it down. Primarily used as hunting dogs in the past, Basset Hounds are frequently trained for tracking small game like rabbits.

History & Origin

Aside from making a great family pet, the Basset Hound is excellent for tracking and following scents. This unique characteristic made it a top choice for hunters, especially those seeking to hunt small game, like rabbits.

Basset Hounds are believed to have come from French origin in around the 1500s.

Appearance

Basset Hounds are mostly recognized for their long ears and short legs. The chest of the Basset Hound sits low to the ground because of the short length of legs, but the sternum is strong and prominent.

Basset Hounds can have 9 different colorings, including the standard colors of black and white, black, brown and white, black, tan and white, black, white and brown, black, white and tan, lemon and white, mahogany and white, and red and white.

Other possible colors for the Basset Hound includes black and brown, black, red, and white, blue and white, blue, tan, and white, brown and white, tan and white, white and lemon, white and red, white, black and brown, and white, black and red.

It is not common for Basset Hounds to have markings, but it is possible for them to have black markings, black mask, ticked, or white markings.

Temperament

Although they are part of the Hound family, the Basset Hound can be a bit lazy at times. As an extremely low-key and laid back breed of dog, the Basset Hound is very patient and charming, making them great for families.

Basset Hounds are known for being extremely intelligent dogs, and while they are also known for being loving and caring about their owners, their intelligence and laziness can often result in them ignoring their owners’ commands.

Basset Hounds have an energy level that ranges from extremely lazy to a moderate amount of energy, so while they may be reluctant to begin their daily walk, they will usually begin to enjoy the fresh air once they are out and walking around.

Basset Hounds are also incredibly patient dogs who do not get angry or irritated easily.

Size

Although Basset Hounds are very low to the ground, the majority of their body is rather large compared to their short legs. Both the male and female Basset Hound grow to be about 14 inches in height but can weigh between 40 and 60 pounds. In some cases, the male Basset Hound can grow to be up to 75 pounds.

Health

Although Basset Hounds are usually a pretty healthy breed of dog, there are a few conditions Basset Hound owners and breeders should be aware of.

Basset Hounds may have glaucoma, which is a condition in the eyes that can lead to blindness. They may also develop thrombopathia, which is a condition where basset hounds have abnormal platelet functions.

Other conditions that affect Basset Hounds include von Willebrand’s disease, hip and elbow dysplasia, and patellar luxation.

Care

Basset Hounds require minimal care from their owners and are usually very independent dogs, but because they can fall on the lazy side, owners will usually need to prompt their pet into going for a walk. Because they are prone to being overweight, walks should occur frequently but do not need to involve excessive exercise, like running.

Basset Hounds are also okay when left alone, although they sometimes prefer to be in the company of their owner or other animals. Due to their lazy nature, Basset Hounds are usually perfectly okay with being left alone to sleep the day away but feel better when they have another dog or animal to lounge around with.

Feeding

As with any dog, Basset Hounds require fresh water consistently throughout the day. It is also important to ensure that Basset Hounds are getting the necessary nutrients and minerals they need.

Because Basset Hounds tend to be a bit lazy, they are prone to being overweight. Owners should take precaution to what they are feeding their pet to prevent overeating and ensure they are eating nutritious meals rather than foods that can contribute to weight gain.

The amount that a Basset Hound eats and how frequently meals should occur will usually depend on the age and size of the dog and vary between individual dogs.

Grooming

Basset Hounds have a short coat length but require weekly grooming. Their long ears can trap moisture, dirt, or debris that can cause infection, so they will need to be checked and cleaned regularly.

Owners of Basset Hounds should also have their nails trimmed to prevent nails from splitting. A Basset Hound’s teeth should also be brushed regularly to prevent gum infections, and bath should be given occasionally or as needed.

The droopy eyes of a Basset Hound will also require frequent cleaning and maintaining. The eyes can collect dirt or debris that can cause infection and increase the chances of the animal developing glaucoma.

Children

Because Basset Hounds are so laid back and easy going, they are known as making excellent family pets, particularly when the family has children or other pets. Basset Hounds are easy to get along with and enjoy cuddling and playing with children, but also are very patient and accepting of children who like to play or pull on their long ears or tail.

While a Basset Hound can be a great dog to play or cuddle with, they may not make a good guard dog if you are looking for a breed that can protect the house while you’re away.