The Complete Basset Hound Guide: History, Temperament, Care and More

The Basset Hound, with its distinctive long body, short legs, and droopy ears, has captured hearts worldwide as both a skilled hunting companion and beloved family pet. These charming dogs, originally bred for tracking rabbits and small game in France, combine a keen sense of smell with a gentle, patient disposition that makes them excellent companions for various household situations.

Known for their melodious howl and unmistakable appearance, Basset Hounds represent one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. Their unique combination of physical characteristics and friendly temperament has earned them a special place in both working environments and family homes, making them a fascinating breed worthy of detailed exploration.

History and Origins of the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound’s story begins in medieval France, where monks at the Abbey of St. Hubert are credited with breeding the first short-legged hounds. The name “Basset” derives from the French word “bas,” meaning low, aptly describing their characteristic low-set body structure. These dogs were specifically developed to hunt in dense underbrush where taller hounds couldn’t effectively track prey.

By the 1800s, Basset Hounds had gained significant popularity in France as hunting dogs, particularly among nobles who needed a slower-paced hound they could follow on foot rather than horseback. The breed’s exceptional scenting abilities, second only to the Bloodhound, made them invaluable for tracking small game, especially rabbits and hares.

The breed’s introduction to England in the late 19th century marked a turning point in its history. Lord Galway imported a pair of Bassets from France in 1866, but it was Sir Everett Millais who is considered the “father of the breed” in England. Through careful breeding programs, he established the modern Basset Hound type we recognize today, while maintaining the breed’s hunting capabilities and distinctive physical features.

Physical Characteristics and Breed Standards

Basset Hounds are immediately recognizable by their short legs, long bodies, and loose, wrinkled skin. Adult males typically stand 12-15 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 40-65 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. Despite their short stature, these dogs are surprisingly heavy and powerful, with substantial bone structure and muscling.

The breed’s most distinctive features include their long, velvety ears that can reach well past their nose when extended, and their large, domed head with prominent brow ridges. Their eyes are typically dark brown and deeply set, often displaying a soft, somewhat sad expression that has endeared them to many. The skin around their face and neck is loose and wrinkled, particularly around the brow and jowls.

Their coat is short, smooth, and hard in texture, designed to protect them while working through brush and undergrowth. The accepted colors include combinations of black, white, and brown, with tri-colored being particularly common. The tail is long and carried high, often described as “saber-like” when the dog is active or alert.

Temperament and Personality Traits

Basset Hounds are renowned for their gentle, patient, and friendly disposition. They typically exhibit a calm and easygoing nature, making them excellent companions for families with children. Despite their hunting heritage, they’re generally not high-strung or overly excitable, preferring instead to maintain a steady, relaxed demeanor.

These dogs possess a strong pack mentality, which translates into a deep loyalty to their human family members. However, this same trait can make them somewhat stubborn and independent-minded, especially when they catch an interesting scent. Their hunting instincts remain strong, and they may become completely focused on following a trail, seemingly deaf to their owner’s calls.

Socialization with other dogs and pets typically comes naturally to Basset Hounds, as they were bred to work in packs. They generally get along well with other animals, though early socialization is still important to ensure proper development of these friendly characteristics. Their vocal nature, including their distinctive baying, is part of their charm but should be considered by potential owners living in close quarters.

Exercise Requirements and Physical Activity

Despite their somewhat laid-back appearance, Basset Hounds require regular exercise to maintain good health and prevent obesity, a common problem in the breed. Daily walks of moderate length, typically 30-45 minutes, are essential. However, owners should be mindful of their dog’s physical limitations, particularly in hot weather, as their short legs and heavy bodies can make them prone to overheating.

Mental stimulation is equally important for these scent hounds. Activities that engage their powerful nose, such as tracking games or scent work, provide both physical exercise and mental engagement. These activities allow them to use their natural abilities while maintaining a healthy activity level.

Swimming and high-impact activities should be limited due to their body structure. Their long backs and short legs make them less suited for jumping or agility work. Instead, focus on moderate, consistent exercise that doesn’t strain their unique physique. Always monitor exercise intensity and duration, especially in younger dogs whose growth plates haven’t fully closed.

Training and Socialization

Training a Basset Hound requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their independent nature. While intelligent, they can be stubborn and may not show the same eagerness to please as some other breeds. Positive reinforcement methods work best, using treats and praise to motivate them. Harsh corrections or punishment-based training methods are typically ineffective and may damage the trust relationship between dog and owner.

Early socialization is crucial for developing a well-adjusted adult dog. Expose puppies to various people, environments, and situations during their formative months. This exposure helps prevent fearfulness and ensures they grow into confident, social adults. Particular attention should be paid to leash training, as their powerful nose can lead them to follow scents regardless of commands.

House training may take longer with Basset Hounds compared to other breeds. Their stubborn streak can make this process challenging, requiring extra patience and consistency. Establish a regular routine and maintain it strictly, using positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors. Crate training can be particularly effective during this process.

Grooming and Maintenance

Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a Basset Hound’s health and comfort. Their short coat requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. While they don’t need frequent baths, regular cleaning of their facial wrinkles is crucial to prevent moisture accumulation and potential skin infections. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe between the folds, ensuring the areas are thoroughly dried afterward.

Their long ears require particular attention, as they can trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Weekly ear cleaning with a veterinarian-approved solution helps prevent these issues. Check and clean the ears more frequently if the dog spends time outdoors or goes swimming. Their nails should be trimmed regularly, typically every 2-3 weeks, as their relatively sedentary nature may not provide enough natural wear.

Dental hygiene is another crucial aspect of Basset Hound care. Regular tooth brushing, ideally several times per week, helps prevent dental disease. Providing appropriate chew toys and dental treats can also help maintain oral health, though these should not replace regular brushing.

Health Considerations and Veterinary Care

Basset Hounds are generally healthy dogs but are prone to certain breed-specific health issues. Their unique body structure makes them susceptible to various orthopedic problems, including intervertebral disk disease and hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management of these conditions. Weight management is crucial, as excess weight can exacerbate joint and back problems.

Eye problems are another concern in the breed, including glaucoma and cherry eye. Their droopy eyes can also be prone to infection and irritation, requiring regular cleaning and monitoring. The deep skin folds around their face need regular attention to prevent dermatitis and bacterial infections. Owners should check these areas daily for signs of irritation or unusual odors.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a serious condition that can affect deep-chested breeds like the Basset Hound. Owners should be familiar with the symptoms and seek immediate veterinary care if bloat is suspected. Feeding smaller meals throughout the day and avoiding exercise immediately after meals can help reduce the risk.

Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines

Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining a Basset Hound’s health and preventing obesity. Choose high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Adult Bassets typically require 2-3 cups of food daily, divided into two meals. However, individual needs may vary based on age, activity level, and metabolism. Regular monitoring of body condition and weight is essential, as the breed is prone to becoming overweight.

Special attention should be paid to calcium and protein levels in puppies’ diets to support proper bone development without encouraging too-rapid growth. Avoid free-feeding, as Basset Hounds will often continue eating beyond their nutritional needs. Treats should be given sparingly and account for no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

Family Life and Compatibility

Basset Hounds make excellent family pets, particularly in homes where they receive plenty of attention and affection. Their patient nature makes them suitable for families with children, though supervision is necessary to prevent accidental injury due to their long backs. They adapt well to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, provided they receive adequate exercise and attention.

These dogs typically do well with other pets, including other dogs and cats, especially when socialized early. Their pack mentality often makes them happiest in homes where they have animal companions. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals outdoors, so secure fencing is essential.

While generally quiet indoors, potential owners should be prepared for their distinctive howling, especially when they catch an interesting scent or feel lonely. This vocalization is part of their charm but may not be suitable for all living situations. They also tend to drool and shed moderately, requiring owners to be tolerant of some household mess.

Conclusion

The Basset Hound offers a unique combination of endearing physical characteristics and a gentle, friendly temperament that makes them wonderful companions for the right families. Their distinctive appearance and loving nature have earned them a special place in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. However, potential owners should carefully consider their specific care requirements, including regular grooming, health monitoring, and exercise needs.

While they may present some challenges in training and maintenance, the rewards of owning a Basset Hound are numerous. Their loyalty, affection, and charming personality make them excellent family pets for those willing to provide the care and attention they need. With proper training, socialization, and health care, a Basset Hound can be a loving and entertaining companion for many years.

Sources and References

• American Kennel Club (AKC)
• The Kennel Club
• Veterinary Partner
• VCA Hospitals