The Basset Hound is instantly recognizable. With a heavy body, short legs, and long, swinging ears, they are one of the most distinctive breeds in the world. Their name comes from the French word bas, meaning “low.”

Don’t let the sad eyes and the slow walk fool you. The Basset Hound was bred to trail rabbits and hares over difficult terrain. Their scenting ability is second only to the Bloodhound. Once they catch a scent, they are relentless, following it with a determination that borders on stubbornness. At home, however, they are laid-back, affectionate, and excellent family pets known for their patience with children.

History and Origin: The “Low” Hound

The Basset Hound originated in France. The breed’s ancestors were likely the St. Hubert Hounds of Belgium, which were bred by monks in the Abbey of St. Hubert in the Ardennes. These hounds were prized for their scenting ability.

Around the time of the French Revolution, the breed began to take its modern form. Peasants who hunted on foot needed a dog that was slow enough for them to follow but had a nose powerful enough to track game through dense brush. The Basset fit the bill perfectly. Their short legs kept their noses close to the ground, and their long ears helped sweep scents toward their nose.

The breed gained popularity in England in the 19th century. Lord Galway imported a pair to England in 1866, and they were crossed with Bloodhounds to increase their size and bone. This cross gave the modern Basset its heavy head and loose skin. By the 1880s, the breed was well-established and recognized by the Kennel Club.

In America, the Basset Hound found fame not just as a hunter but as a pop culture icon. From “Hush Puppies” shoes to the cartoon character Droopy, the Basset’s mournful face has charmed millions.

Physical Characteristics

The Basset Hound is a “big dog on short legs.” They are heavy-boned and powerful.

• Height: No more than 14 inches (36 cm) at the shoulder.
• Weight: Males 50-65 pounds (23-29 kg); Females 40-55 pounds (18-25 kg).

Distinctive Features

• Ears: Extremely long, low-set, and velvety. They fold inward to trap scent.
• Head: Large and domed with a prominent occiput. The skin is loose and wrinkled, giving them their characteristic sad expression.
• Eyes: Soft, dark, and sunken, showing the haw (inner eyelid).
• Body: Long and deep. The chest is broad, sometimes called a “prow.”
• Tail: Long and tapered, carried gaily (upright) with a white tip to be visible in tall grass.

Temperament and Personality: The Gentle stubborn

Basset Hounds are famous for their mild, agreeable temperament.

The Lover, Not a Fighter

Bassets are pack dogs. They get along famously with other dogs and pets. They are rarely aggressive. They love their people and are known to be particularly patient and tolerant with children, making them excellent family companions.

The Nose Rules All

When a Basset catches a scent, their ears turn off. You can call their name until you are blue in the face; if they are tracking a rabbit (or a discarded sandwich), they will ignore you. This single-minded focus is often interpreted as stubbornness, but it’s simply what they were bred to do.

The Voice

Like all hounds, the Basset is vocal. They have a deep, melodious bay that carries for miles. While they are not nuisance barkers, they will bay if they are bored or lonely.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise

Despite their low energy appearance, Bassets need regular exercise to stay fit.

• Walking: A daily walk is essential. However, be prepared for a slow pace. A Basset walk is a “sniffari.” They want to investigate every blade of grass.
• Obesity Risk: Bassets are prone to obesity, which puts tremendous strain on their long backs. Exercise is crucial for weight management.

Training Challenges

Bassets are intelligent but independent thinkers. They are not eager to please like a Golden Retriever.

• Food Motivation: They will do almost anything for a treat. Use high-value rewards.
• Patience: Training takes time and consistency. Keep sessions short and fun.
• Recall: Never trust a Basset off-leash in an unfenced area. Their nose will lead them astray.

Health and Lifespan

Basset Hounds typically live 10 to 12 years. Their unique anatomy predisposes them to specific health issues.

• Ear Infections: Their long, heavy ears trap moisture and prevent air circulation. Weekly cleaning is mandatory.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Like Dachshunds and Corgis, their long backs make them susceptible to slipped discs. Prevent jumping on furniture and limit stairs.
• Bloat (GDV): As deep-chested dogs, they are at risk for gastric torsion, a life-threatening condition.
• Eye Problems: Cherry eye, entropion (eyelids rolling in), and ectropion (eyelids rolling out) are common.
• Joint Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia can occur.

Grooming and Care

• Coat: Short, smooth, and hard. It repels water and dirt.
• Shedding: They shed profusely year-round. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry comb helps manage the hair.
• Wrinkles: The folds of skin on their face and legs can trap moisture and bacteria. Wipe them clean regularly.
• Nails: Their nails are thick and grow quickly. Regular trimming is important.

Nutrition

Bassets are chow hounds. They love to eat and will steal food from counters (they are longer than you think when they stretch!).

• Weight Management: Strict portion control is key. Measure their food and limit treats.
• Slow Feeders: Using a slow-feeder bowl can help prevent bloat by slowing down their eating.

Is a Basset Hound Right for You?

The Basset Hound is a charming, low-key companion with a lot of love to give.

Yes, if:

• You want a gentle, affectionate dog that is great with kids and other pets.
• You have a securely fenced yard.
• You are patient and have a sense of humor about their stubborn streak.
• You don’t mind a little drool and a lot of shedding.

No, if:

• You are a neat freak (drool, shedding, and “hound smell” are part of the package).
• You want an obedience champion or a dog that will run marathons with you.
• You live in a home with many stairs (bad for their backs).
• You want a silent dog.

For the right family, the Basset Hound is a loyal, entertaining, and deeply lovable friend who will fill your home with joy (and the occasional bay).