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General Description
Basset Hounds have a body that is twice as long as it is tall. Their limbs are stout and their bodies are low to the ground. The breed’s chest is very deep and sticks out in front of the forelegs. The Basset Hound has a large head with a dome-shaped skull and prominent occiput. The plane of the breed’s muzzle is parallel to the top of the skull. Basset Hounds have very loose-fitting skin that falls in folds across the face and body. They have soft, velvet-like ears that are extremely long and meet beyond the top of the nose. Basset Hounds have large teeth that meet in a level or scissor bite and their lips hang down with loose flews. They have droopy brown eyes and a friendly, mope-y expression. Their dewlaps are prominent and their paws are large. Basset Hounds have a short, glossy coat that exists in a number of colors. White, chestnut, and sand-colored markings occur frequently.
Character
Basset Hounds are good-natured, loving companion dogs with a sweet disposition. They make wonderful companion dogs and family pets. They are known for their mild temperament and affection towards their master and children. Although never aggressive or vicious (they never bite), Basset Hounds may be a bit stubborn. They are also comparatively difficult to housebreak. This breed needs gentle guidance and lots of positive reinforcement, but they are very obedient with proper training. They like to perform tricks for food and they will chase after an interesting scent. Basset Hounds are very good-natured and kind, but they are not timid. They are friendly and fit into family life quite well. This breed is known for its deep, musical bark.
Because of their tendency to chase after scents, Basset Hounds should never be let outside off-leash unless they are in a securely fenced yard. Their ability to find their way back home often does not equal their ability to get lost chasing after interesting scents.
General Health
Basset Hounds should not be overfed. Weight gain puts a large amount of strain on this breed’s legs and spine. Because of their short legs and long, heavy body, Basset Hounds are susceptible to lameness and paralysis. They are also prone to bloat. Owners should carefully monitor this breed’s diet. Typically, Basset Hounds live for 10 to 12 years. They average 8 puppies per litter, but it is not infrequent for Basset Hounds to have more than 15 puppies in a litter.
History
Basset Hounds are a comparatively old breed that is a direct descendant of the Bloodhound. There are numerous sources that believe the Basset Hound originated from dwarf dogs that appeared in the litters of other types of French hunting hounds. “Basset Hound” is a name that was coined from the French word “bas” meaning “low”. The breed received popularity in 1863 after it was presented at the Paris Dog Show. Many breeders wished to preserve the hunting traits of the breed, but there were many others who wished to breed the Basset Hound as a companion dog. Through much selective breeding, American breeders developed a Basset Hound that possessed all the attributes of a wonderful companion dog without sacrificing its hunting abilities. In 1885 the Basset Hound was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Maintenance
Basset Hounds have a smooth, short-haired coat that is easy to groom and maintain. This breed’s coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush and shampooed only as necessary. Ears should be kept clean and toenails should be clipped regularly. Basset Hounds are constant shedders.
Ideal Environment
Basset Hounds should be given lots of exercise, but jumping and other activities that could put unnecessary stress on their front legs should be avoided. Basset Hounds are content to live in a small household or apartment, as long as they are taken for daily walks or get a chance to play outside on a regular basis. This breed is inactive indoors.
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Basset Hound Q&AAsk a Question
bassett mix puppyI have a puppy that has bassett in it. I am not sure what else it has but I know it isn't a pure bred. I was hoping someone might be able to tell me what else he may have in him. Aside from the ears not being typical bassett ears...
Asked by Anonymous - 1 answers
I have a 1 year old bassett hound. We keep her in a crate will we are at work and at night. ...I have a 1 year old bassett hound. We keep her in a crate will we are at work and at night. She still wets her crate and we still have problems with her peeing in the house. Do you have any suggestions on elimnating this problem?
Asked by Anonymous - 7 answers
I have A six month old BassetI live in a second floor Apt the breeder that I bought the pup ...I have A six month old BassetI live in a second floor Apt the breeder that I bought the pup never told me regarding the unnecessary stress that he is getting going up and down.I'm worry about his front legs and he is getting heavy...
Asked by Anonymous - 3 answers
I have an 8 month old basset hound, and im not sure if he is done growing. He is prob. like ...I have an 8 month old basset hound, and im not sure if he is done growing. He is prob. like 50 lbs now but he doesn't look it. When is the average age hounds stop growing?
Asked by Anonymous - 1 answers
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Basset Hound PhotosUpload a Photo
-116x_120333588187.jpg "Basset Hound, 10, ready told you all bout him in the last picture")
-116x_120333567387.jpg "Basset Hound, 10, norman is a 10 year old basset hound he is tri coloured(black/brown/white)he is pure breed and he's just a lovley dog.")
