The Essential Guide to Dog Breeds

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Basset Hound Dog Breed Facts & Information


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Basset Hound walking in leaves
Mindaugas Dulinskas via iStock

The Basset Hound is a working dog known for being incredibly loyal, loving, and laid-back. Developed in France, this short-legged scent hound’s name comes from the French word “bas,” meaning “low.”

Basset Hounds don’t just have strong noses. They also have a gentle and affectionate nature. Their faces may seem sad, but many people find them playful and charming dogs, and they make wonderful additions to families.

Read on to learn more about the Basset Hound, from their history and origins to their personality and ideal environment.

Breed Characteristics

Key

  • Low
  • Medium
  • High
  • Origin: France
  • Size:
  • Weight: 40-65 pounds
  • Activity level:
  • Barking/howling level:
  • Good with dogs: yes
  • Good with kids: yes
  • Shedding:
  • Shedding: Seasonal
  • Hair type: Short
  • Grooming level:
  • Training level:
  • Drooling level:

Appearance 

Basset Hounds are easily one of the most recognizable breeds you’ll ever set your eyes on! These dogs have a domed head, long, flowing ears, and a wrinkled forehead, along with dark, expressive eyes.

They’re strong and sturdy with large paws, but they don’t have much height to speak of.

According to the official standard for the Basset Hound from the American Kennel Club (AKC), these medium-sized dogs usually reach no more than 14-15 inches at the highest point of the shoulder blade. They generally weigh between 40-65 pounds. Their short, smooth coats can appear in a variety of colors and markings.

Basset Hound types

There’s only one type of Basset Hound, says Michelle Klump, Basset Hound breeder at Out West Bassets. She explains there’s a lot of misinformation on this topic, and you might come across descriptors like “European,” “American,” or “Brazilian.” This simply refers to the bloodlines of a Basset Hound’s pedigree.

“No matter where their breeders or bloodlines come from, they are all Basset Hounds and should match the breed standard set by the parent club,” Klump says.

Origin And History

Basset Hounds can be traced back to 6th century France, according to the Basset Hound Club of America (BHCA). It’s believed that Bassets and their taller cousins Bloodhounds descend from the hounds kept by St. Hubert, known as the patron saint of the hunt. With their short legs and incredible noses, Basset Hounds gained popularity as hunters of small game in France and England.

Some of George Washington’s diary entries suggest that Basset Hounds arrived in the United States after the American Revolutionary War in the mid-1780s. However, their origins in the states remain mostly unclear. By the late 1800s, Basset Hounds had become extremely popular in England and the US, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1885. 50 years later, devoted Basset fanciers formed BHCA.

Some famous Basset Hounds include:

  • Dog (Columbo)
  • Flash (The Dukes of Hazzard)
  • Fred (Smokey and the Bandit)

Past and present celebrity pet parents of Basset Hounds include:

  • George and Amal Clooney
  • John Legend and Chrissy Teigen
  • David Arquette
  • Clint Eastwood
  • Marilyn Monroe
  • Elvis Presley

Personality

Basset Hounds are generally quite relaxed for a working breed, says Dr. Linda Simon, a veterinarian at Senior Tail Waggers. “They’re mellow and easygoing and happy to take things at your pace,” she says. “As they’re placid, they can make good family pets.”

If you have other dogs or cats in your home, we have good news for you. Dr. Simon says Basset Hounds should get on well with other pets and tend to tolerate them very well with conflict rarely being an issue. Of course, as with any other dog, she says it’s best to introduce other pets during their socialization window—before they reach 16 weeks old.

Klump describes Bassets as silly, as they provide nonstop entertainment for as long as they’re awake. She also says they have an “off” switch, unlike many working hound breeds. They’re also kind, independent, and smart.

“This breed has the reputation of being dumb and stubborn,” she says. “They were bred to hunt and make decisions in the field without their handler, so they are problem solvers who like to do things their way.”

Ideal Environment And Lifestyle

Basset Hounds may be a good option if you want a canine companion who has a calm, friendly attitude and you’re prepared to shower them with attention and affection.

“Bassets do well in most settings with people who are patient and willing to understand how a hound brain works,” Klump says. “They are not the same as retrieving or herding dogs! Patience and consistency are essential.”

While these dogs may seem chill and laid-back, they were developed to work. They don’t necessarily need a big house or yard, but they should have plenty of opportunities to keep their minds and bodies busy, which can help them stay happy and healthy.

Basset Hounds bark and may be more vocal when excited or lonely. Dr. Simon says these dogs can cope fine with being left alone for a few hours, but they enjoy a busy home. As pack dogs, Basset Hounds prefer to be around a human or animal companion and not left alone, especially for long periods of time.

“A bored or lonely Basset will always be louder than one with plenty of mental stimulation,” Klump says.

What’s more, Basset Hounds generally only bark when they want to alert you to something they feel is important, so they don’t necessarily make the best watchdogs.

Exercise needs

Since Basset Hounds have a higher risk of gaining excess weight, it’s important to not skimp on the exercise, Dr. Simon says. They should get an hour of moderate exercise daily. Most likely, they’ll spend the rest of the day lying around and keeping you company!

Below are a few activities Klump and BHCA recommend for Basset Hounds:

BHCA recommends that puppies avoid over-exercising while their muscles and bones are still forming. They shouldn’t from elevated objects, like couches, beds, or porches, until they reach the age of 1 year.

Training

Your puppy should get some training when they’re still very young and living with their mother—before you even meet your new family member, according to Russell Hartstein, a certified dog behaviorist and trainer in Los Angeles and founder of Fun Paw Care. They’ll also get important socialization with people and other animals, like their siblings, at this time.

Once you bring your Basset Hound puppy home, you can start basic training, including how to walk on a leash and be alone for short periods of time, around 8 weeks old.

Like all other dogs, Basset Hounds need to be fulfilled daily with enrichment, training, socialization, play, nutrition, and more, Hartstein says.

“Every dog is an individual before we consider their breed,” he says. “Basset Hounds are intelligent working dogs. As such, we should attempt to meet their needs with consideration to how they have been bred.”

Hartstein says these dogs would excel at nosework and other scent games—since they were bred to pick up scents.

Without the right training and socialization, Basset Hounds—like any other dog breed—may develop fear and anxiety, lose interest in socializing, or become reactive to other dogs or people, he explains. For these reasons, it’s important to prioritize training and socialization to maintain a strong bond with your pup for years to come.

Grooming Needs

Basset Hounds shed a moderate amount, particularly as the weather warms up, Dr. Simon says.

To manage their shedding, she recommends brushing them daily to remove any dead hair. You can use a rubber curry brush and soft thistle brush to groom your Basset Hound. Because they have short fur, she considers them to be a low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming.

BHCA recommends the following grooming tips for Basset Hounds:

Health

Basset Hounds are a very hearty, healthy breed, Klump says. However, like any other dog breed, they may have a higher risk of certain health conditions, including:

  • Obesity: A portioned, high-quality diet and regular exercise can help lower your Basset Hound’s risk of gaining excess weight.
  • Glaucoma: This condition can be hereditary or develop due to trauma or cancer. Glaucoma requires ongoing treatment.
  • Thrombopathia: This hereditary blood disorder requires ongoing treatment.
  • Lafora disease: This hereditary neurological condition is a type of epilepsy that affects dogs between 5–7 years old. Diet and medication may help relieve your dog’s symptoms, though there’s no cure.
  • MPS1 (Mucopolysaccharidosis): This rare hereditary condition was recently discovered in Basset Hounds. MPS1 can cause weakness, joint problems, difficulty walking, and heart disease. It requires ongoing treatment.
  • Bloat: Some dogs, including the Basset Hound, are more likely to develop bloat. Bloat is the common name for gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV). Bloat can be fatal and requires immediate veterinary care. You can reduce your dog’s chances of bloat by feeding small meals throughout the day, limiting activity an hour before and after eating, and using puzzle feeders to keep your dog from gobbling down food quickly.

Finding a responsible and reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their Basset Hounds is key for a happy, healthy puppy.

Any dog can develop health conditions over the course of their life, but pet insurance can help give you some peace of mind and save you some money on the cost of health care for your dog.

Alternative Dog Breeds to Consider

Basset Hounds have their own unique needs for care, just like any other breed. To thrive in a household, they require a human or animal companion, as they don’t like to be left alone for long.

Klump says they won’t do well in a home where they’re often alone. “They are highly social and need companionship and mental stimulation.” Otherwise, she adds, they might bark all day and stir up trouble.

Additionally, Klump says that while Bassets are very loving and want to be near their humans, they aren’t a good match if you prefer a dog who’s eager to please. They have their own views on how things should be, so pet parents should view their relationship with a Basset more like a partnership, she explains.

Due to their short legs, these dogs shouldn’t get excessive exercise. They’ll also need stairs and ramps at home to prevent injuries and pressure on their joints.

While Basset Hounds can live in apartments or houses, they’ll need a fenced-in yard to roam and play since they’re keen to track a scent and go wherever their noses take them.

If a Basset Hound isn’t the best match for you, check out these similar dog breeds:

Getting A Basset Hound

Ready to make a Basset Hound your fur-ever friend? You can start by checking out the AKC Marketplace for responsible breeders or researching Basset Hound rescues.

The average price of a Basset Hound puppy is $1,850, according to Good Dog. However, some dogs may cost more, depending on factors like their pedigree, availability, and popularity.

Adoption fees are much lower in comparison. If you adopt a Basset Hound, you’ll likely only pay a few hundred dollars.

Some rescues to consider include:

For more BHCA-recognized rescues, visit their website. You can also check your local shelters for Basset Hounds.

No matter whether you’re searching for a puppy or older dog from a rescue or a breeder, it’s always best to do your research on the breed to make sure their care and needs line up with your experience, family, and lifestyle.

Basset Hounds are a working breed, Hartstein emphasizes, and he says it’s important to make sure you can meet their needs so you can both have a happy life together.

Otherwise, your dog may become frustrated, bored, or depressed. Booking an in-home sitter or dog walker while you’re away can help keep your Basset Hound happy when you need to leave home for a longer period of time.

Resources

Yvonne Villasenor

Yvonne Villasenor

Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance journalist and lifelong animal lover based in Orange County, California. Her work has been featured in The Los Angeles Times, Daily Paws, This Dog’s Life, among others. When not writing, Yvonne enjoys lounging with her precious pets, exploring Southern California, and watching funny animal videos.