Basset Hound

Generally, Basset Hounds are characterized by their short legs. With its nose inevitable close to the ground, the Basset Hound is among the finest of the scent hounds. Relative to its size, however, the Basset Hound is the heaviest-boned dog of any breed.

Origin: This sturdy, short-legged hound originated in France in the late 16th century. Various different breeds of Basset were developed here, and the term itself appears to have come from the French word ‘bas’, meaning ‘low’.

The shape of its head and the sharpness of its scenting powers suggest a close relationship with the Bloodhound and it may have arisen through a mutation in that breed, producing dwarfism. In the early 19th century, Basset Hound came into their own being most useful to those hunting on foot. Though slow moving, they trundle through seemingly impenetrable undergrowth with ease, and can be used for hunting hares, rabbits and pheasants. In American, it has been pitted against a wide range of game, including opossums.

As pack animals, Basset Hounds tend to be greedy by nature, and particular care needs to be taken with pet Bassets, to ensure that they do not become overweight. Otherwise male dogs can suffer direct trauma to their penis from ground.

Temperament: Appearance can be misleading. Behind the Basset Hound’s doleful expression lies an exceptionally merry, lively dog, affectionate and good with children.

Exercise: The Basset Hound’s ponderous gait doesn’t mean that it can do without exercise. In fact regular daily walks are particularly vital with this breed. A sedentary dog quickly becomes overweight.

Training: Like other hounds, they can be stubborn and relatively difficult to train. Generally obedient however, they become oblivious to everything when on to a scent. This is especially so in the country side, Basset Hounds will often set off in pursuit, regardless of their owner’s instruction.

Grooming: Daily grooming with a hound glove.

Physical Appearance of Basset Hounds

Head: Domed skull with prominent occiput on top. Some wrinkling of the brow and heavy and drooping upper lips.

Eyes: Hazel or brown depending on coat color. The red of the lower lids is just visible.

Ears: Set below the eye, long, supple, velvety and curling inwards.

Coat: Smooth, short and close. Color variable.

Body: A broad, long level back. Chest moderately deep.

Tail: Long, strong, tapering and straight, but with a slight curve when the dog moves.

Legs: Short, powerful with sturdy bones. At the front, the knees crook inwards slightly but not so much that they meet. Wrinkles on lower legs. Large feet.

Height: 33 to 38 cm / 13 to 15 in

Weight: 18 to 27 kg / 40 to 60 lb