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Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a strong scenting-hunting breed that is friendly and active. They require a moderate amount of exercise.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Basset Hound
Physical Characteristics
- Medium, heavy build
- Long, velvety ears
- Wide, long head
- Large paws with thick, heavy pads
- Coat: Loose skin covered with short, stiff, sleek hair; comes in tricolor and lemon/white
- Height: 13-15 inches
- Weight: 45-65 pounds
- Average lifespan: 10-12 years
Temperament
- Well-behaved, even-tempered, gentle, smart, affectionate, friendly
- Interaction with people: Good with children
- Training: Obedient with proper training
- Bark: Can be highly vocal
Medical Conditions
- Bloat
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Otitis externa (ear infection)
- Ophthalmic disorders (including glaucoma, ectropion and entropion)
- Hypothyroidism
- Patellar luxation
- Thrombopathia (blood disorder)
- von Willebrand's Disease (blood disorder)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments
- Needs daily exercise
- Enjoys running and playing outside
Grooming
- Easy to groom
- Frequent shedder
- Clean ears every week
- Trim toenails regularly
Other Facts
- 'Basset' comes from the French word "bas" meaning "low thing" or "dwarf"
- In "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Shakespeare described the hounds as having "ears that sweep away the morning dew"
- Excellent sense of smell
- Second most accurate sense of smell in trailing (bloodhound is first)
- Popular companion pet in the U.S.
Breed History
- Native to France
- Descended from dwarfed bloodhounds - possibly from dwarfed Saint Hubert hounds
- Historically used to steadily trail animals for hunters traveling on foot
- Became a popular pet among the working-class after the French Revolution
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Basset Hound Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit North Texas Basset Hound Rescue, Inc.
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