Basset Hound

A mild mannered, even tempered, and laid back breed, the Basset Hound is a breed of dog that is ideal for inexperienced dog owners and those with children or other pets, as he is a sociable creature and gets along with other animals as well as kids and adults. This is a breed that is largely very peace-loving and has a very cheerful disposition. Some Basset Hounds love to act the clown and others will carry themselves with dignity and calmness. The breed tends to be calm, polite and amiable around strangers. These dogs have a great sense of humor, and make wonderful companion and family pets

These dogs have a very responsive nature, and fare well with patient training methods. The Basset Hound is an animal that will be quite happy lazing by the fire, but his tendency to put on weight means that he will need to be exercised on a regular basis. The Basset Hound can sometimes be stubborn, and beware of his love of food, as he will be quite happy to steal any food that he finds on his travels. Although training these dogs is moderately easy with the right attitude, they can be very difficult to housebreak.

Basset Hound Appearance

The Basset Hound weighs in at around 40-80 pounds, and reaches heights of around 11-15 inches. The coat of this breed is hard, sleek, and short, and coloring of the coat includes white and tan, red and white, and most commonly, black, tan, and white. These low, compact, and sturdy dogs have luxurious trailing ears, and large feet. They have a very relaxed and sometimes doleful expression. The body of the Basset Hound resembles that of a Dachshund, and the head resembles that of a Bloodhound.

Basset Hound Grooming

It is important to clean the drooping, long ears of the Basset Hound on a regular basis, otherwise he could end up getting ear infections. Grooming these dogs is not difficult, as the sleek, hard coat simply needs an occasional brushing and wipe down in order to keep it looking glossy and well conditioned.

Basset Hound Health Problems and Life Expectancy

The Basset Hound has a life expectancy of around 10-12 years. A number of health problems and issues are associated with this breed and this includes luxating patella, PRA, ectropion, entropion, epilepsy, elbow dysplasia, spinal problems, bleeding disorders, glaucoma, vWD, thyroid problems, and ear infections. Both parents of your Basset Hound puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

Basset Hound History

The Basset Hound originates from France and Great Britain, and is thought to date back to the sixteenth century. The name comes from the French word for low to the ground, which is Bas, and he was bred for hunting - an instinct that the breed still retains. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1885.