Basset Hound

Basset Hound History

The Basset hound is a breed of scenthound originally developed in medieval Europe. The ancestors of modern Bassets were used as a bloodhounds and hare-hounds, chasing prey such as deer, rabbits, and foxes. The history of the modern day Basset Hound can be traced back to 17th century France, where they were developed from English hounds. By 1800 the Basset had developed a distinct appearance, and was recognized by the AKC in 1893.

Basset Hound Physical Characteristics

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized, short-haired breed that typically stands between 15 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 38 and 65 pounds. They have a large, blocky head that is flat on top and a medium length, heavy tail that is carried high. They have large, droopy eyes that are typically a lighter shade of the color in their fur. Their ears hang down and have long hair around the inside of them. Their nose is a lighter shade of their fur. They have a heavy, pendulous skin fold that hangs down over their lower jaw. Their legs are muscular and short. They have a short, hard, coarse, and curly coat of an even, light or dark, nondescript color.

Basset Hound Health

Description of breed health.

Basset Hound Temperament and Behaviour

The Basset Hound is a short-legged dog breed, of the hound family. The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for the purpose of hunting hare. Their sense of smell for tracking is second only to that of the Bloodhound. The name Basset is derived from the French word bas, meaning “low”, with the attenuating suffix -et meaning “small”, together meaning “rather low”. Basset Hounds are loving and devoted to their owners, and are good with children and other pets in the family. They are even-tempered and can be clownish and playful, but they are also determined and can be stubborn at times. They are relatively inactive indoors, and do best with at least a large yard. They are a hunting breed and have a strong instinct to follow their nose, so a secure fence is necessary to keep them safe. The Basset Hound’s coat is short, smooth, and hard, with a dense undercoat. The coat may be any hound color, including black, tan, white, tricolor, and gray. The Basset Hound is a heavy-boned, short-legged dog breed, with a long, soft body. The head is large and well-proportioned, with a long, wide muzzle. The ears are long, low-set, and drooping. The eyes are dark, large, and expressive. The tail is thick at the base, tapering to a point. The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog, ranging in height from 12-15 inches (30-38 cm) and weight from 40-60 pounds (18-27 kg).

Basset Hound Activity Requirements

The Basset Hound is a hound that was originally bred to be a hunting dog. They have a long, droopy body and large, sad eyes. These dogs are sweet, loyal, and gentle. While Bassets aren’t the most energetic or vigorous of breeds, they do need to have regular exercise. A daily walk or a game of fetch can help keep them healthy, happy, and well-mannered. While Bassets can make good pets for people living in apartments or condos, they do require a fair amount of grooming. Their long, floppy ears are prone to infection, and their coat must be brushed regularly to prevent matting.

Kennel Club Recognition