Basset Hound

  • Dog Breed Group: Hound Dogs
  • Recommended for: Families, singles

  • Maintenance Level: Medium
  • Life Span: 11-12 years
  • Height: 30-38 cm
  • Weight: 18-27 kg
  • Temperament: Intelligent, independent, social, sharp-tempered, excited
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Colors: Black, white, brown, red
Adaptability
Friendliness
General Health
Trainability
Exercise Needs

Basset Hound Breed Overview

The Basset Hound is a medium dog with short legs and pair of long ears that make him distinctive among people from all over the world. They have a very long body, which means that they are longer than they are tall, and have thick legs.

Basset hound is related to Blood hound, and they have a short and smooth coat, with loose skin and big ears. They have been around for many years, and some experts stated that their breed first appeared in the 16th century.

They were developed in France and very popular among nobles back then. They were developed in order to hunt small animals such as rabbits, but they are also a handful when you take them to walk. Because of hunting past, they will be eager to chase smaller dogs and animals.

The Basset Hound can grow up to 38 cm in height and 27 kg in weight.
Their life expectancy is approximately 12 years.

  • Suitability for Children – High
  • Tendency to Bark – High
  • Energy – Low
  • Suitability as a Guard Dog – Medium
  • Grooming Requirements –  Once a Week
  • Trimming Required – None
  • Amount of hair shed –  Little
  • Food Cost –  $10 to $ 15
  • Average Monthly Pet insurance Premium – $97
Petcare Pet insurance quote banner

Origins of Basset Hound

Basset Hound is a descendant of Bloodhound and St. Hubert Hound. Their name means low in French because they have the stocky and short physique. They were primarily developed as companion dogs, and later for hunting. In the middle of 19th century, Basset Hound was brought to England.

Basset Hound Temperament

The Basset Hound has a wonderful reputation s calm, placid and good-natured dog. Due to his hunting background, he is very loyal and well behaved when cohabitates with other pets.

On the other hand, they are quite independent, which means that you will have difficulties of training them because of stubbornness. They are sensitive to owner mood, and you have to show discipline and routine during training.

Common Basset Hound Conditions and Diseases

Obesity – This is a very common condition that could happen to the Basset Hound, because of its small legs. You have to create diet regimen and act accordingly.
It is important to go to vet frequently just in case. Don’t forget to get Dog Insurance for the Basset Hound so that you can protect him from any injury that could happen during the lifespan.

Interesting Facts

  • The Basset Hound was very popular among nobles of France as lap dogs.
  • Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley owned a Basset Hound.

More photos of Basset Hound