History of the Basset
The lineage of the Basset Hound traces back to ancient times, with its distant ancestors depicted in artwork from civilizations as old as the ancient Egyptians. However, the breed recognized today has its origins primarily in France.
The name “Basset” is derived from the French word bas, meaning “low,” aptly describing the breed’s short stature. Basset Hounds were developed from the St. Hubert Hound, a predecessor to the modern Bloodhound. Their primary purpose was to hunt small game, such as rabbits and hares, by scent. Their short legs were advantageous in this endeavor, allowing hunters to follow the dogs on foot as they trailed their quarry.
During the Renaissance, Basset Hounds gained popularity in French aristocratic circles, with King Louis XIV being one of the breed’s notable admirers. As the Basset continued to evolve, different strains were developed, each tailored to a specific terrain and hunting need. This led to a variation in appearance among hounds from different regions.
The Basset’s introduction to England occurred in the mid-19th century, and it quickly gained popularity. The first of the breed to be exhibited at a dog show entered the ring in 1863, and the hounds’ many charms quickly assured its steady rise in popularity. It was during this period in England that a written Breed Standard was defined, leading to the Basset’s consistency in appearance that is recognized today.
The American chapter of the Basset Hound’s history began in the late 19th century. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885, and its popularity soared in the 20th century. This was due in in large part due to the breed’s depiction in popular culture, especially as the mascot of a major footwear brand.
Over the years, the Basset transitioned from being primarily a hunting dog to a much loved family pet. The breed’s gentle disposition, coupled with its distinctive figure, guaranteed its enduring appeal in America and elsewhere.
Today, while some Basset Hounds are still used as pack hunters in parts of France, many more enjoy life as a family companion, show dog, and as a participant in various dog sports. These activities reflect the breed’s versatility and its endearing nature.
The Basset Hound – What to Consider?
When considering adding a Basset Hound to the home, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the unique attributes and requirements of this particular scenthound. While the breed’s sad eyes, long ears, and amiable disposition often endear it to many, ownership comes with responsibilities.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Basset Hound Health
The Basset Hound, like all breeds and mixed breeds, has its own unique set of health considerations to be aware of. Generally, these hounds are a robust and hearty breed, but certain genetic predispositions can affect their health.
Lifespan: On average, Basset Hounds have a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. This range can be influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, genetics, and overall care.
Potential Health Risks
Basset Hounds, with their unique physique and characteristics, have a set of health concerns that potential owners should be aware of. Being informed about these conditions supports both early detection and appropriate management, ensuring the best quality of life for each individual.
- Ear Infections: Given the breed’s long, droopy ears, Basset Hounds are more susceptible to ear infections. Regular cleaning and monitoring are essential to prevent any problems from developing.
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a common condition among many dog breeds, where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly. It can lead to arthritis and pain in one or both hips.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the front legs of the dog, causing pain and mobility issues.
- Obesity: Basset Hounds love their food, and if not monitored, they can quickly become overweight. Obesity can lead to a myriad of other health problems, including heart disease and joint issues.
- Thrombopathia: This is a blood platelet disorder found in breed. The disorder can cause excessive bleeding, even following minor injuries.
- Eye Conditions: The Basset Hound can be susceptible to various eye conditions such as cherry eye, glaucoma, and entropion.
It is important for Basset Hound owners to work closely with a responsible breeder and a veterinarian by providing regular exams that can detect and address potential health risks early on. Additionally, breed-specific screenings, especially for hips and eyes, can be beneficial. Through vigilant care and proactive medical attention, many of these conditions can be managed or mitigated, offering any Basset a comfortable and fulfilling life.
Basset Hound Personality
The Basset Hound is a breed that charms many with its gentle and affable nature. Recognized for their unwavering loyalty, these short-legged hounds make for wonderful companions with both families and individual dog lovers.
For novice dog owners, the Basset Hound presents an attractive choice. The breed’s calm and tolerant temperament aligns well with those who might not have experience with canine companions. However, it’s essential to recognize that Basset Hounds, while easy-going, can occasionally display a stubborn streak, especially during training sessions.
Basset Hounds are notably sensitive creatures. Emotionally, they thrive on close companionship and may feel the sting of loneliness if left alone for long durations. This bond with their people means that extended solitude might lead to feelings of separation anxiety. Physically, their sensitive skin can sometimes be delicate, making them potentially more reactive to certain grooming products or environmental elements.
Socially, Basset Hounds are generally amicable with other dogs. Their sociable nature is a testament to their breed, and with the right introductions, they often integrate well into households with multiple pets. This sociability extends to humans too. Families with young children will find that Bassets, with their patient and gentle demeanor, can be excellent companions. As always, it’s crucial to be sure that interactions between dogs and young children are supervised to guarantee everyone’s safety.
When it comes to strangers, the Basset Hound typically leans towards friendliness rather than aggression or suspicion. These happy hounds might alert their owners to newcomers with a distinctive bark, but they aren’t typically known to be overly protective.
Basset Hound Feeding & Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being and longevity of a Basset Hound. As with any dog breed, the dietary needs of a Basset Hound can vary based on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health.
Puppies have specific nutritional requirements to support their developing bones, muscles, and organs. For Basset Hound puppies, it’s essential to provide them with a balanced diet tailored for their growth phase. Typically, puppy formulas designed for medium-sized breeds are appropriate. As pups transition into adulthood, usually around the age of one, their dietary needs will change.
Adult Basset Hounds have a moderate appetite, but they can be prone to obesity due to their tendency to be less active. An average adult Basset Hound typically requires about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. It’s crucial to monitor their weight and adjust portions accordingly. Overfeeding or providing calorie-rich treats frequently can lead to weight gain, which poses health risks for this already heavy-boned breed.
Factors such as activity levels, age, metabolism, and overall health will influence the exact amount of food a Basset Hound needs. Active individuals might require more calories, while older or less active dogs may need a diet with fewer calories in order to maintain a healthy weight.
It’s always beneficial to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to determine the best diet plan for a Basset Hound. These health professionals can offer guidance on appropriate food choices, portion sizes, and any dietary supplements which might benefit the particular dog. Remember, it is always necessary to provide fresh water at all times, ensuring the Basset stays hydrated. Regular monitoring of weight and body condition will allow dietary adjustments to be made as necessary to promote a long, healthy life.
Basset Hound Training
Training a Basset Hound can be both a delightful and challenging endeavor. Known for their endearing personalities, these dogs also come with a streak of independence that can sometimes be perceived as stubbornness.
Basset Hounds are intelligent dogs, and with the right approach, they can be taught a wide range of commands and behaviors. However, they’re often guided by their noses and can be easily distracted by intriguing scents. It’s this strong olfactory drive that sometimes makes them appear uninterested in training, as they might prefer following a scent trail over responding to a command.
When training a Basset Hound, positive reinforcement methods are most effective. These dogs respond well to rewards, be they treats, praise, or play. Punitive measures or harsh training techniques are not only ineffective, they can also harm the bond between the dog and the owner. Patience, consistency, and gentle guidance are the keys to successful training.
Basset Hounds are generally quiet dogs, but they have a distinctive bark which they might employ to alert their people of someone approaching their territory or if they are simply bored. Proper training and socialization can help to manage excessive barking and will ensure they only bark when necessary.
In terms of intelligence, Bassets are quite smart. However, their independent nature might sometimes give an impression otherwise. Engaging their minds with puzzle toys or scent-based games can be a great way to stimulate them mentally and make use of their keen sense of smell.
While Basset Hounds don’t typically show a high potential to roam, their noses can sometimes lead them on adventures. It’s essential, therefore, to have a secure fence if they are allowed to be off-leash in open areas, and recall training is crucial.
Predatory instincts aren’t very pronounced in the Basset Hound as compared to some other breeds. However, the scent drive of these dogs can sometimes be mistaken for a chase drive, especially if they’re tracking small animals.
Basset Hound Exercise
When one thinks of a Basset Hound, images of a leisurely, laid-back canine might come to mind. And while it’s true that these hounds are not as hyperactive as some other breeds, Bassets still have their own set of exercise needs that are essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Low |
| Exercise Requirements |
1 Hour/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation |
At their core, Basset Hounds are scent hounds, which means they are hardwired to follow their noses. Walks are not only a means of physical exercise but also a way of providing the dog with a plethora of sensory stimuli. A daily walk allows the Basset to engage with its environment, tracking various scents and exploring the immediate surroundings. This not only caters to the Basset’s physical needs, it also provides much-needed mental stimulation.
In terms of energy levels, the Basset Hound is a moderate dog breed. Bassets typically enjoy play sessions and can be quite lively, especially during their younger years. Incorporating short play sessions in the yard or indoors, coupled with daily walks, can be an excellent way to make sure they are getting adequate exercise.
Despite their shorter stature, Basset Hounds have a surprising intensity to their play at times. They enjoy games like fetch, although they might be more interested in sniffing the ball rather than bringing it back!
It’s essential to monitor a Basset Hound’s exercise, especially during hot weather. The breed’s heavy-boned structure and loose skin can make these dogs susceptible to overheating. Early morning or late evening walks during warmer months can help to avoid any heat-related problems. Additionally, the Basset’s unique physique means these short-legged hounds can be prone to joint issues, so it’s vital to offer exercise that is consistent but not overly strenuous.
Basset Hound Grooming
Grooming is an essential aspect of Basset Hound care, both for maintaining the breed’s unique appearance and ensuring the dog’s overall well-being. These hounds may not have the flowing locks of some breeds, but their short, dense coat and distinctive skin folds do require attention.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Hard, Smooth, Short |
| Grooming Requirements |
Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
The coat of a Basset Hound is smooth and short, but it’s denser than it might appear at first glance. The breed’s coat type is relatively easy to groom, but Bassets do shed, albeit moderately. Regular brushing, at least once a week, can help with removing loose hairs and ensuring the coat remains clean and shiny. A firm bristle brush is usually sufficient for this task, effectively removing dead hair and distributing the skin’s natural oils throughout the coat.
One of the most notable features of the Basset Hound is the breed’s loose, elastic skin, which forms wrinkles and folds, particularly around the head and neck. While these folds add to the Basset’s charm, they also need specific care. Moisture and debris can accumulate in these skin folds, leading to irritation or infections. It’s essential to regularly check these areas, cleaning them gently with a soft, damp cloth and making sure they are thoroughly dried.
Basset Hounds have long ears that do not receive a lot of air circulation. This can create a humid environment conducive to infections. Regularly checking the ears for signs of redness, bad odor, or excessive wax is vital. Cleaning with a vet-approved ear solution can help to prevent potential issues.
Basset Hounds, with their sad eyes, can sometimes be prone to tear staining. Wiping the area beneath their eyes with a soft cloth can help to reduce staining and will keep the area clean.
Lastly, as with all dogs, regular nail trimming is necessary. Basset Hounds might not wear down their nails as quickly as more active breeds, making regular nail trims essential to prevent overgrowth.
Living with a Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, with its soulful eyes and charming demeanor, can quickly become a beloved member of any household. Living with one, however, requires an understanding of the breed’s unique characteristics and needs.
Firstly, Basset Hounds are quite adaptable to apartment living, provided their exercise requirements are met. The breed’s moderate energy levels mean these dogs may be content lounging around after a good walk or play session. However, it’s worth noting that they can occasionally be vocal, especially when they want attention or if they sense someone approaching their home.
When it comes to weather sensitivity, Basset Hounds fare reasonably well in cooler climates. Their dense coat provides some protection against the cold, but as always, extreme conditions should be avoided. It’s vital to ensure they have a warm place to retreat to during colder months. Conversely, in hot weather, Bassets can be susceptible to overheating. Their short noses and heavy-set bodies mean they don’t dissipate heat as effectively as some other breeds. On particularly warm days, it’s essential to limit their exercise, provide ample shade, and provide access to fresh water.
Lastly, Basset Hounds are social creatures. They thrive on human interaction and can form strong bonds with family members. While they’re generally content being left alone for short periods, prolonged isolation can lead to boredom and resultant destructive behaviors. It’s beneficial, therefore, to provide them with toys or activities when they’re alone and to offer plenty of interaction when family members are home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do Basset Hounds live?
Basset Hounds typically have a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Like all dogs, their longevity can be influenced by factors such as genetics, health care, and overall well-being. Proper care, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to a healthy and long life.
What do Basset Hounds usually die from?
Basset Hounds, like other breeds and mixed-breeds, can be prone to specific health issues. They are often susceptible to conditions such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity-related complications. Additionally, they can also develop bloat, a life-threatening stomach condition.
Do Basset Hounds shed?
Yes, Basset Hounds shed. They have a short, dense coat that sheds year-round, with more pronounced shedding typically occurring during seasonal changes. Regular grooming, including brushing, can help to manage and reduce the amount of loose hair around the house.
How big do Basset Hounds get?
Basset Hounds are medium-sized dogs with a sturdy build. When it comes to height, mature Bassets typically stand less than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. In terms of weight, adult Basset Hounds generally weigh between 40 and 65 pounds.
What were Basset Hounds bred for?
Basset Hounds were originally bred in France for hunting small game, primarily hares and rabbits. Their keen sense of smell and low stature allowed them to trail scents effectively and steadily. Over time, their excellent tracking abilities and good-natured temperament made them popular both as working dogs and faithful companions.
Are Basset Hounds lazy?
Basset Hounds are often perceived as lazy due to their calm and laid-back demeanor, especially when indoors. However, they are very active outdoors and enjoy sniffing and exploring their surroundings. While they may not require as much exercise as some breeds, regular walks and playtime are essential for their health and happiness.
Can a Basset Hound swim?
While Basset Hounds can swim, they’re not particularly adept or enthusiastic swimmers. Their heavy bone structure and short legs can make swimming more challenging for them than for other breeds. If they are introduced to water, it should always be done gradually and with supervision to ensure their safety.
Are Basset Hounds hypoallergenic?
No, Basset Hounds are not considered hypoallergenic. They shed regularly, and their dander can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. Regular grooming and cleaning can help to reduce allergens, but it’s always a good idea for allergy sufferers to spend time with a breed before bringing one into the home.
