Basset Hound Overview

Basset Hounds, originating as pack dogs, require the company of family. With an exuberant, loyal, and willful soul, the Basset Hound will stick by its master forever. 

Although its lethargic expression and short legs suggest a lazy and easygoing dog, it actually requires regular daily exercise. Free-running in a large backyard is possible, but these dogs would prefer to exercise with their owners. 

With incredible amounts of character, this dog will sometimes feel like a great human companion rather than a pet. Yet the dog is also very hard-headed, so look elsewhere if you are searching for an award-winning animal. The Basset Hound is a great family pet, as long as the household is willing to accept a little frustration now and then.

Basset Hound History

The Basset Hound’s stubbornness reflects its history as an old, fastidious, aristocratic breed. Originating in France, it has been used for centuries across Europe as a tracker of game both large and small. 

The name “Basset” comes from a French hunting manual published in the 16^th century, and it is said to have the first image of a Basset Hound. 

While the Basset held little popularity until the 1950s, it was favored for centuries among certain classes of people. It is said the first Bassets came to America as a gift to George Washington after the Revolutionary War. Only a year after the breed’s importation to England, the Westminster Kennel Club created a class as a show dog. Shortly thereafter, the Basset debuted in American shows. 

Like so many breeds, the Basset Hound’s popularity and image in the U.S. is a result of its appearance in movies, magazines, books, and other pop culture mediums.   

Basset Hound Character

The Basset Hound is an all-around nobleman. If it were a human, its preferred sports would be polo, golf, or other gentlemanly pursuits. It is an excellent family pet, for its non-aggressive demeanor makes it friendly with other animals and patient with children. 

But this dog is also a hunter at heart, so leashing is essential. Once it picks up a scent, it may not be seen until it gets bored and wanders back. 

The deal breaker for prospective owners is the Basset’s stubbornness. Not that the dog is stupid, it is in fact highly intelligent. It simply does not want to learn. It will chew, it will bark and howl, and it will ignore orders. 

While it may be possible to break the dog of these habits, it will take hard work and patience, and the dog will sometimes forget what it has learned. Specifically, it is necessary to teach recalling to the dog, or else it will follow a scent to unknown lengths while blissfully tuning out its handler. 

Finally, older Bassets can be overly dominant if not socialized from puppyhood. 

Although the Basset Hound is a gentleman, it is also stubborn and independent. If it were a human, you would gladly invite him over for dinner, but make sure to avoid discussing politics.

Basset Hound Care

Combing and brushing with a firm bristle brush should keep shedding to a minimum as this breed sheds constantly. Toenails should be trimmed regularly as this breed is lazy which can neglect the nails. Cleaning under the folds of skin works best, and the ears should be cleaned regularly.

Basset Hound Training

This can be a very sensitive breed so gentle and patient training is a must. Consistency works best with this short and stubborn breed. The Basset Hound has the tendency to go off sniffing completely disregarding his master so fun techniques work best.

Basset Hound Health

Common Health Issues for the Basset Hound:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Basset Hound:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Basset Hound Resources