Basset Hound

Size Category:Medium
Height:15 inches
Weight:40-65 pounds
Life Span:12-13 years

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • Basset Hound grooming requires regular attention despite their short coat
  • gentle weekly brushing with a soft brush or shedding tool controls shedding and benefits skin health
  • nails should be trimmed regularly to maintain health
  • occasional baths keep coat clean and shiny
  • grooming sessions act as an all-body massage for overall well-being
  • short hair may shed profusely, so consistent grooming is essential.

Colors & Markings

Colors

Black & WhiteBlack Brown & WhiteBlack Tan & WhiteBlack White & BrownBlack White & TanBrown Black & WhiteLemon & WhiteMahogany & WhiteRed & WhiteBlack & BrownBlack Red & WhiteBlue & WhiteBrown & WhiteTan & WhiteWhite & LemonWhite Black & BrownWhite Black & Red

Markings

White MarkingsTickedBlack MarkingsBlack Mask

Health Information

Basset Hounds require regular ear care due to their long, drooping ears, which can trap moisture and lead to infections. Signs like head shaking or ear scratching may signal a need for veterinary attention. Reputable breeders screen for common health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, bleeding disorders, and luxating patella. Additionally, maintaining dental hygiene through brushing with canine toothpaste at least twice weekly is essential for their overall health.

Recommended Health Tests

Ophthalmologist EvaluationMucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) - DNA TestThrombopathia (Basset Hound) - DNA TestLafora Disease - DNA TestPrimary Open Angle Glaucoma (Basset Hound) (POAG) - DNA Test

📜 History

The Basset Hound originated in France and Belgium, with the French word 'basset' meaning 'low.' Developed by monks at the Abbey of St. Hubert, this breed was created by crossing older French hounds to produce a sturdy, low-slung scent hound ideal for tracking rabbits and deer on foot. Their exceptional scenting ability and tenacity quickly made them a favored hunting companion among French nobility, who valued them for their effectiveness in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Basset Hound is generally excellent with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, making them great family pets. However, supervision with young children is always recommended.
No, the Basset Hound is considered a low-shedding breed. While all dogs shed slightly, this breed is much easier on your furniture and clothes tailored for those who dislike cleanup.
The Basset Hound has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The Basset Hound requires moderate grooming. Brushing a couple of times a week should keep their coat in good condition.
The Basset Hound can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Basset Hound

Overview

About This Breed

The Basset Hound is a charming, patient, and low-key breed with a strong independent streak. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, they are typically good with children and other dogs but can be aloof or stubborn during training due to their strong scent-driven instincts and preference for working autonomously.

🎭Temperament

TenaciousFriendlyAffectionateDevotedSweet-TemperedGentle

Purpose

Scent hound originally bred for tracking rabbit and deer over rough terrain, often working in packs or alongside human hunting partners

Breed for

Hunting by scent

Best Suited For

Moderate activity households, families with children, and owners who enjoy a laid-back but affectionate companion

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for owners who appreciate a calm yet playful companion and are prepared for consistent, patient training and moderate grooming needs.

Training Difficulty

Hard

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with stubbornness during training and managing excessive shedding, which requires regular grooming.

Trust & Transparency

About Our Data

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Accuracy Assured

Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

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