Meet The Basset Hound

The Long Low Rider Pooch.

Basset Hound — Complete Guide

Origin and History

The Basset Hound originated in France and was developed as a scent-tracking hunting dog. The word “basset” comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” referring to the breed’s short legs and low-to-the-ground body.

Historical Background

• The breed descends from French hounds bred by monks during the Middle Ages.

• They were designed to track small game such as rabbits and hares through dense brush.

• Their exceptional scenting ability comes second only to the Bloodhound in many scent-tracking tests.

• Basset Hounds became popular among hunters who preferred a slower-moving dog that could be followed on foot.

• The breed gained popularity in England during the 1800s and later spread worldwide.

• Today they are used mostly as companion dogs, though some still work in scent tracking and search activities.

Physical Characteristics

Size

• Height: 28–38 cm at the shoulder

• Weight: 18–30 kg

Appearance

• Long body with very short legs

• Loose skin and long droopy ears

• Large paws

• Sad-looking eyes with a calm expression

• Short dense coat

Common Coat Colors

• Tri-color (black, white, tan)

• Lemon and white

• Red and white

• Mahogany combinations

Lifespan

• Average: 10–13 years

Character and Personality

General Temperament

Basset Hounds are:

• Gentle

• Loyal

• Affectionate

• Patient

• Relaxed indoors

• Friendly with strangers

They are usually excellent family dogs and tend to bond deeply with their owners.

Intelligence

• Very intelligent in scent work

• Can appear stubborn during training

• Independent thinkers because they were bred to follow scents without human direction

Energy Level

• Moderate to low energy

• Enjoy walks and sniffing activities

• Often described as “couch potatoes” indoors

Social Nature

They generally:

• Get along well with children

• Mix well with other dogs

• Can coexist with cats if socialized early

Because they are pack hounds, they usually dislike being left alone for long periods.

Training and Behavior

Strengths

• Food motivated

• Excellent scent detection

• Usually non-aggressive

Challenges

• Stubbornness

• Selective hearing when following scents

• Slow house-training in some cases

Best Training Methods

• Positive reinforcement

• Patience and consistency

• Short training sessions

• Reward-based methods

Harsh discipline usually does not work well with this breed.

Common Medical Issues

Like many purebred dogs, Basset Hounds are prone to certain health problems.

1. Ear Infections

Their long ears reduce airflow and trap moisture.

Signs

• Scratching ears

• Bad smell

• Redness

• Head shaking

Prevention

• Weekly ear cleaning

• Keeping ears dry

2. Obesity

Basset Hounds gain weight easily.

Risks of Obesity

• Joint stress

• Back problems

• Heart strain

Prevention

• Portion control

• Daily walks

• Avoid excessive treats

3. Back and Spine Problems

Their long backs can develop issues similar to slipped discs.

Prevention

• Avoid excessive jumping

• Use ramps where possible

• Maintain healthy weight

4. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Abnormal joint development can lead to arthritis and pain.

Symptoms

• Limping

• Difficulty standing

• Reduced activity

5. Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)

A serious emergency where the stomach twists.

Symptoms

• Swollen abdomen

• Restlessness

• Unsuccessful vomiting

• Collapse

Prevention

• Smaller meals

• Avoid vigorous exercise after eating

6. Eye Problems

Possible conditions include:

• Glaucoma

• Cherry eye

• Entropion

• Ectropion

Regular veterinary eye checks are important.

7. Skin Issues

The folds in their skin may trap moisture and bacteria.

Prevention

• Keep folds clean and dry

• Regular grooming

Caring for a Basset Hound

Feeding

Diet Needs

• High-quality balanced dog food

• Controlled calorie intake

• Protein-rich diet

Feeding Tips

• Measure meals carefully

• Avoid overfeeding

• Limit table scraps

Exercise

Despite their lazy appearance, they need daily activity.

Ideal Exercise

• 30–60 minute walks daily

• Sniffing games

• Gentle play

Important

Never trust a Basset Hound off-leash in an open area. Their scent drive can override recall training.

Grooming

Coat Care

• Brush 1–2 times weekly

• Moderate shedding year-round

Ear Care

Essential weekly cleaning.

Nail Care

Their nails grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly.

Bathing

Every 4–6 weeks or when needed.

Living Environment

Suitable Homes

• Apartments (if exercised)

• Houses with yards

• Families

• Retirees

Not Ideal For

• Extremely active owners wanting jogging partners

• People away from home all day

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent Family Dog

Usually patient and loving with children.

Friendly Personality

Rarely aggressive.

Moderate Exercise Needs

Less demanding than many breeds.

Strong Companion Bond

Very affectionate and loyal.

Unique Appearance

Distinctive and charming look.

Great Sense of Humor

Many owners describe them as entertaining and expressive.

Cons

Stubbornness

Training requires patience.

Heavy Shedding and Drooling

Especially around the mouth and ears.

Strong Odor

Some have a characteristic “hound smell.”

Vocal

Can howl loudly.

Health Costs

Potential for chronic medical issues.

Weight Management

Requires discipline to prevent obesity.

Separation Anxiety

Can become destructive or noisy if lonely.

Is a Basset Hound Right for You?

A Basset Hound may suit you if you:

• Want a calm affectionate companion

• Prefer moderate exercise

• Have time for grooming and health care

• Enjoy relaxed family-oriented dogs

It may not suit you if you:

• Want highly obedient off-leash behavior

• Prefer a very active athletic dog

• Dislike drool, shedding, or dog odors

Ideal Owner Profile

Best suited for:

• Families

• Seniors

• First-time owners willing to be patient

• Homes with companionship most of the day

Fun Facts

• Their ears help sweep scent particles toward the nose.

• Their nose contains millions more scent receptors than humans.

• The Basset Hound’s bark/howl is deep and powerful for its size.

• They are famous in advertising and pop culture because of their expressive faces.

If you'd like, I can also provide:

• A puppy care guide

• Cost of ownership

• Feeding schedule by age

• Training plan for the first year

• Comparison with Beagles or Bloodhounds

• Best food recommendations

• Typical temperament around children and cats

• A “what to expect during the first 30 days” guide for new owners