Basset Hound
Breed Description

The Basset Hound is known by several names around the world, reflecting its French heritage and distinctive characteristics. In France, where the breed originated, they are simply called "Basset" or "Basset Français." The word "basset" itself comes from the French word "bas," meaning low, which perfectly describes their low-slung stature.

Throughout different regions and time periods, the breed has been referred to as the Basset Artésien Normand (a closely related French variety), French Basset, Low Hound, and occasionally the Droopy Dog due to their distinctive facial expression popularized in cartoons. Some enthusiasts affectionately call them "Hush Puppies" after the famous shoe brand that adopted a Basset Hound as their mascot, though this is more of a colloquial reference than an official name.

In hunting circles, they are sometimes simply called "foot hounds" to distinguish them from their mounted hunting counterparts, as these dogs are designed to be followed on foot rather than horseback due to their slower, methodical pace.

The Basset Hound stands as one of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds in the world, immediately identifiable by their unique low-slung profile and soulful expression. These medium-sized dogs present a paradox of proportions that seems almost comical at first glance but serves a very specific purpose rooted in centuries of selective breeding for scent hunting.

Built long and low to the ground, the Basset Hound measures between 11 and 15 inches in height but can weigh anywhere from 40 to 65 pounds, creating a substantial, sturdy dog with remarkable endurance. Their distinctive silhouette features a elongated body supported by short, powerful legs that may appear disproportionate but are perfectly designed for their original hunting purpose. The breed's most striking feature is undoubtedly their extraordinarily long ears, which can extend well past their nose when pulled forward, serving as scent-gathering tools that sweep aromatic particles toward their highly sensitive nose.

The Basset Hound's head is large and well-proportioned, with a slightly domed skull and pronounced stop. Their eyes are dark, sad, and deeply set, giving them that famous melancholy expression that has endeared them to people worldwide. The muzzle is long and heavy, housing one of the keenest scenting abilities in the canine world, second only to the Bloodhound. Their nose is large and dark, typically black, with wide-open nostrils designed for maximum scent detection.

Their coat is short, dense, and weather-resistant, coming in typical hound colors including combinations of black, white, and tan (tricolor), red and white (bicolor), or lemon and white. Some Basset Hounds may also display blue coloring or ticking patterns. The coat requires minimal grooming but does shed year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

The breed's tail is long and saber-like, carried gaily but not curled over the back. When following a scent trail, the tail serves as a flag that allows hunters to track their dog's location even in dense underbrush. Their feet are large and round with well-arched toes and tough pads, designed to handle long hours of tracking over various terrain.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard describes the Basset Hound as a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog. The standard calls for a height of not more than 14 inches, with most dogs measuring between 11-15 inches. Weight should be proportionate to height and bone structure, typically ranging from 40-65 pounds. The head should be large and well-proportioned with a long, heavy muzzle. Eyes are soft, sad, and slightly sunken, showing a good deal of haw. Ears are extremely long, low set, and when drawn forward, fold well over the end of the nose. The body is long, smooth, and free from clumsiness. The chest is deep and full with well-sprung ribs. Legs are short, powerful, and heavy in bone. The tail is long, teapot handle fashion, but not curled over the back. Coat is hard, smooth, and short with sufficient density to be of use in all weather. Colors are generally black, white, and tan; red and white; or any other recognized hound color.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard, being the breed's country of origin standard, provides detailed specifications for the Basset Hound. Height ranges from 33-38 cm (approximately 13-15 inches) with tolerance allowed for exceptional specimens. The FCI emphasizes the breed's original hunting function, describing a dog built for endurance rather than speed. The skull should be well-developed with pronounced occipital protuberance. The stop is moderately marked, and the muzzle should be nearly as long as the skull. Eyes are calm, showing some haw, dark in color corresponding to coat. Ears are supple, narrow, and fine, set on low, and extremely long. The neck is fairly long and well-muscled with moderate dewlap. The body is rectangular, long, and low to ground. Chest is well-developed, breastbone prominently protruding. The tail is fairly long, thick at base, tapering, carried saber-fashion. Movement should be calm and steady, never jerky or dragging.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard emphasizes the Basset Hound as a scent hound bred to hunt by trailing game. The standard describes a dog that is longer than tall, with curved front legs and out-turned feet that allow efficient movement through dense cover. Height should not exceed 15 inches, with ideal height being 13-14 inches. Weight should be proportionate, generally 45-65 pounds for males and 35-55 pounds for females. The head is of medium length with skull slightly longer than muzzle. Eyes are dark, soft in expression, and may show some haw. Ears are pendulous, reaching well beyond tip of nose when pulled forward. Body is substantially longer than tall with deep, well-developed chest. Front legs are short and heavy-boned with some crooked appearance acceptable. Hindquarters are well-muscled and strong. Coat is dense, short, and weather-resistant. Standard colors include any recognized hound color combination.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK) standard closely follows the FCI standard but adds specific temperament requirements, emphasizing the breed's placid nature and friendly disposition. The Canadian Kennel Club follows the AKC standard with minor variations in measurement specifications. The Australian National Kennel Council also adheres to FCI guidelines with local adaptations. All major registries agree on the fundamental characteristics: low-slung build, exceptional scenting ability, gentle temperament, and distinctive physical features including the long ears and sad expression. Variations between standards are generally minor and relate to specific measurement tolerances or emphasis on particular traits rather than fundamental breed type differences.

The Basset Hound's history stretches back to medieval France, where the breed was developed specifically to meet the hunting needs of French nobility who preferred to follow their hounds on foot rather than horseback. The word "basset" derives from the French adjective "bas," meaning low, which perfectly describes these dogs' most distinctive physical characteristic.

The earliest ancestors of the Basset Hound can be traced to the Abbey of St. Hubert in Belgium during the 6th century, where monks bred large scent hounds for hunting. These St. Hubert Hounds were eventually brought to France, where they became the foundation for many French hound breeds. By the late 1500s, French hunters had begun selectively breeding for shorter-legged variants of these hounds, creating what would eventually become distinct basset breeds.

The modern Basset Hound primarily descends from two French varieties: the Basset Artésien Normand and the Basset de Normandie. These breeds were developed in the Artois and Normandy regions of France respectively, with different families of nobility maintaining their own distinct lines. The Count Le Couteulx de Canteleu and Lane family were particularly influential in developing the Basset Artésien Normand, while the Basset de Normandie was promoted by other French breeders.

The breed gained international attention when Napoleon III kept Basset Hounds at the Tuileries Palace, and they were frequently depicted in French art and literature of the period. However, the French Revolution and subsequent political upheavals nearly led to the extinction of many aristocratic hunting breeds, including the Basset Hound. Fortunately, dedicated breeders preserved breeding stock through these turbulent times.

The Basset Hound's introduction to England occurred in 1866 when Lord Galway imported a pair named Basset and Belle from the Comte de Tournow. However, it was the Everett Millais importation in 1874 of the hound "Model" that truly established the breed in Britain. Millais, often called the "father of the Basset Hound in England," spent decades refining the breed through careful breeding programs and was instrumental in establishing the first breed standard.

Queen Alexandra's patronage of the breed in the late 1800s significantly boosted the Basset Hound's popularity in British society. Her pack of Basset Hounds at Sandringham Estate helped establish the breed as both a working hunting dog and fashionable companion animal among the British upper classes.

The breed arrived in America in the 1880s, but initially struggled to gain widespread popularity. The American Kennel Club first registered a Basset Hound named "Bouncer" in 1885. Early American breeding programs focused on maintaining the breed's hunting abilities while adapting to local conditions and game.

The Basset Hound's transformation from working hunting dog to beloved family companion accelerated in the 20th century. The breed gained massive popular recognition through advertising campaigns, most notably as the Hush Puppies shoe company mascot beginning in 1958. Television appearances, including the character "Fred" on "The Dukes of Hazzard" and various commercials, further cemented the breed's place in American popular culture.

World War II significantly impacted Basset Hound breeding programs across Europe, with many established lines lost or severely reduced. Post-war reconstruction of the breed relied heavily on surviving English and American breeding stock, leading to increased genetic cooperation between international breeders.

Modern Basset Hound breeding has focused on maintaining the breed's distinctive characteristics while addressing health concerns that arose from centuries of selective breeding for extreme physical traits. Contemporary breeders work to balance the breed's historic hunting function with its role as a family companion, ensuring that the Basset Hound continues to embody the gentle, determined, and distinctive qualities that have made it beloved for centuries.

The Basset Hound was originally developed with a very specific hunting function in mind: to trail game slowly and methodically while allowing hunters to follow on foot. This fundamental purpose shaped every aspect of the breed's physical and mental characteristics, creating a dog perfectly adapted for scent hunting in dense cover and challenging terrain.

As a scenthound, the Basset Hound's primary function revolves around their extraordinary olfactory capabilities. With approximately 220 million scent receptors compared to a human's 5 million, these dogs possess one of the most refined scenting abilities in the canine world. Their low-to-ground build serves multiple purposes in scent work: it keeps their nose close to the ground where scent pools naturally accumulate, allows them to follow trails underneath dense brush that would block taller dogs, and provides stability while navigating rough terrain with their nose down.

The breed's distinctive physical features all serve their hunting function. Their exceptionally long ears act as scent-gathering devices, sweeping aromatic particles from the ground and vegetation toward their sensitive nose as they move. The loose skin around their face and neck helps trap and concentrate scent molecules. Their sturdy, low-slung body provides the endurance needed for long hunting expeditions, while their deliberate pace allows hunters to keep up on foot without difficulty.

Historically, Basset Hounds were used primarily to hunt hare, rabbit, and other small game in the dense forests and brushlands of France. Unlike faster hounds used for mounted hunting, Basset Hounds were bred to move at a steady, methodical pace that tired prey animals through persistence rather than speed. This hunting style, known as "basset hunting," became popular among French nobility who enjoyed the social aspect of following the hunt on foot while engaging in conversation.

In their working capacity, Basset Hounds typically hunt in packs, developing strong cooperative instincts and clear communication signals. Their distinctive bay allows hunters to locate them even in dense cover, while also serving to communicate with other hounds in the pack about the status of the trail. The breed's natural inclination to give voice when working remains strong in modern dogs, which explains their tendency to bark or howl when excited or when following interesting scents.

Beyond traditional hunting, Basset Hounds have found modern applications in various scent-based activities. They excel in tracking competitions, nose work, and search and rescue operations, particularly in wilderness settings where their endurance and methodical approach are valuable assets. Some Basset Hounds have been successfully trained for drug detection and other professional scent work, though their independent nature requires patient, specialized training.

As companion animals, the Basset Hound's original function influences their behavior and needs. Their strong prey drive means they require secure fencing and should be leashed in unfenced areas, as they may follow interesting scents without regard for traffic or other dangers. Their pack hunting background makes them naturally social and cooperative with other dogs, while their working relationship with humans has produced a breed that is both independent-minded and eager to please.

The breed's functional heritage also explains many of their care requirements. Their need for regular exercise stems from centuries of breeding for endurance, though their exercise should be appropriate to their build and not overly strenuous. Their tendency to follow their nose means mental stimulation through scent games and puzzle toys is often more satisfying than purely physical exercise.

Understanding the Basset Hound's original function helps modern owners appreciate and accommodate their dog's natural instincts. While few Basset Hounds today work as hunting dogs, their genetic programming remains intact, influencing everything from their social behavior to their exercise needs to their problem-solving approaches. This functional heritage is what gives the breed its distinctive character and makes them such specialized, devoted companions when their needs are properly understood and met.

The Basset Hound's behavior is fundamentally shaped by centuries of selective breeding for specific hunting traits, resulting in a unique personality that combines independence, gentleness, determination, and social cooperation. Understanding these behavioral characteristics is essential for anyone considering sharing their life with this distinctive breed.

Perhaps the most defining behavioral trait of the Basset Hound is their scent-driven nature. These dogs experience the world primarily through their nose, and this olfactory dominance influences virtually every aspect of their behavior. When a Basset Hound catches an interesting scent, they may become completely absorbed in following it, seemingly oblivious to their owner's calls or commands. This selective hearing is not disobedience in the traditional sense, but rather an overwhelming instinctual response to their primary sensory input. Owners must understand that managing a Basset Hound's scent-driven behavior requires patience, consistency, and environmental management rather than forceful correction.

The breed displays a characteristically calm and steady temperament, rarely showing aggression or hyperactivity. Basset Hounds are naturally gentle souls who approach life with a philosophical acceptance that many owners find endearing. They tend to be patient with children, tolerant of other pets, and generally accepting of new situations, though they may initially be somewhat reserved with strangers until they assess the situation.

Independence is another hallmark of Basset Hound behavior. Bred to work semi-autonomously while following scent trails, these dogs retain a strong independent streak that can manifest as selective listening or stubborn behavior. They are capable of making their own decisions and often prefer to do so, which can be challenging for owners expecting immediate, unquestioning obedience. This independence should not be mistaken for lack of intelligence; Basset Hounds are actually quite clever problem-solvers who simply prefer to think things through before acting.

Socially, Basset Hounds are pack animals with strong cooperative instincts. They typically enjoy the company of other dogs and rarely display dog-aggressive behavior. Their pack mentality extends to their human family, whom they consider their "pack." They form deep, loyal bonds with their families and can become quite distressed when separated from their loved ones for extended periods. This attachment can sometimes manifest as separation anxiety if not properly managed.

The breed is naturally vocal, a trait developed for communication during hunting. Basset Hounds have a distinctive deep, melodious bay that they use to communicate excitement, frustration, loneliness, or when they've found something interesting. They may also howl in response to sirens, music, or other high-pitched sounds. While not typically excessive barkers, they will alert their family to visitors or unusual activities around their territory.

Basset Hounds display interesting food-related behaviors stemming from their hunting heritage. They are typically food-motivated, which can be useful for training, but they also tend to be somewhat protective of resources. Most are enthusiastic eaters who may gulp their food quickly, and many will scavenge given the opportunity. Their strong food drive combined with their scenting ability makes them excellent at finding dropped crumbs or forgotten treats, sometimes leading to weight management challenges.

Exercise behavior in Basset Hounds is unique compared to many other breeds. Rather than requiring high-intensity activity, they prefer moderate, sustained exercise that allows them to explore and investigate their environment. A Basset Hound may show little enthusiasm for playing fetch but will happily spend an hour slowly exploring a new walking trail, following various scent trails along the way. They tend to pace themselves naturally and rarely overexert, though owners must be cautious about overheating due to their heavy build and shortened airways.

Sleep and rest patterns in Basset Hounds tend to be substantial. These dogs are champion sleepers and loungers, often spending 12-14 hours per day resting. They seem to instinctively understand the importance of conserving energy for when it's needed, much like their ancestors did between hunting expeditions. They often seek out comfortable spots for napping and may claim favorite furniture or sleeping areas.

Training behavior in Basset Hounds requires understanding their motivation and natural inclinations. They respond best to patient, positive reinforcement methods that work with their food motivation and desire to please their pack. Harsh corrections or punishment-based training typically backfires with this breed, as they may simply shut down or become more stubborn. They learn best when training sessions are short, positive, and incorporate their natural abilities, such as scent work or problem-solving games.

Behaviorally, Basset Hounds can be quite comedic and entertaining, often displaying a dignified clumsiness due to their unique proportions. They may misjudge their size when trying to navigate tight spaces or attempting to fit into beds or furniture designed for smaller dogs. Their expressive faces and tendency toward dramatic sighing and groaning when they don't get their way endear them to many owners who appreciate their almost human-like emotional expressions.

The Basset Hound's integration into family life represents one of the breed's greatest strengths, as these dogs seem naturally designed to be patient, loving, and adaptable family companions. Their gentle temperament, combined with their moderate exercise needs and affectionate nature, makes them excellent choices for many different family situations and living arrangements.

With children, Basset Hounds typically excel as family pets. Their patient, tolerant nature allows them to withstand the sometimes unpredictable behavior of young children, including tail pulling, ear tugging, and being used as a pillow. The breed's sturdy build means they're less likely to be accidentally injured by enthusiastic children, while their calm demeanor helps prevent overstimulation or reactive behavior. Many Basset Hounds seem to instinctively understand the difference between adults and children, showing extra gentleness and patience with younger family members.

However, supervision is always recommended when any dog interacts with young children, and Basset Hounds are no exception. While they rarely show aggression, their size and enthusiasm during greeting can potentially knock over small children. Additionally, their strong food motivation means they should be supervised during children's meal times to prevent resource guarding behaviors or food stealing that could lead to conflicts.

The breed's pack mentality strongly influences their family dynamics. Basset Hounds typically view their human family as their pack and seek to establish their place within the family hierarchy. They generally accept leadership from their human family members readily, though their independent nature means they may sometimes choose to ignore commands that don't align with their current interests, particularly if an intriguing scent is involved.

Basset Hounds tend to form particularly strong bonds with one or two family members while remaining friendly and affectionate with all family members. They often choose a primary person who becomes their special focus, following them around the house and seeking their attention and approval above others. This bonding behavior is typically not possessive or problematic but rather represents their deep capacity for loyalty and attachment.

In multi-pet households, Basset Hounds generally integrate well with other dogs, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Their pack hunting background makes them naturally cooperative with other canines, and they rarely display territorial or dominance issues with housemate dogs. They often enjoy having canine companions and may be less prone to separation anxiety when another dog is present.

With cats and other small pets, the situation requires more careful management due to the Basset Hound's hunting heritage. While many Basset Hounds can learn to coexist peacefully with cats, their strong prey drive means they may be inclined to chase running cats or small animals. Early socialization and proper introductions are essential, and owners should always supervise interactions until they are certain of compatibility.

The breed's moderate exercise needs make them adaptable to various family lifestyles. They are equally content in apartments or large homes with yards, as long as their basic exercise requirements are met. Their calm indoor behavior makes them excellent companions for families who prefer quieter, less destructive pets, though they do require daily walks and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and associated behavioral issues.

Basset Hounds often develop routines that revolve around family activities. They typically learn family schedules and may anticipate meal times, walks, or the return of family members from work or school. Their observant nature allows them to pick up on subtle cues about upcoming activities, and many owners report that their Basset Hound seems to know when something special is about to happen.

During family gatherings or social events, Basset Hounds typically handle the increased activity and number of people well. They may initially be somewhat reserved with new visitors but usually warm up quickly, especially if the visitors show them appropriate attention. Their friendly nature and distinctive appearance often make them conversation starters and beloved by visitors.

The breed's vocal tendencies can impact family dynamics, particularly in close living quarters. Their baying and howling, while not typically excessive, can be disruptive in apartment settings or neighborhoods with noise restrictions. Families need to be prepared to manage and train appropriate vocalization behaviors, understanding that some level of vocal expression is natural and healthy for the breed.

Basset Hounds often serve as emotional barometers within families, seeming to sense when family members are stressed, sad, or unwell. Many owners report that their Basset Hound provides comfort during difficult times, offering their presence and gentle nature as emotional support. This intuitive behavior, combined with their calm disposition, makes them excellent therapy dog candidates and valued family companions during both good times and challenges.

Family travel considerations with Basset Hounds require some planning due to their size and specific needs. While they generally travel well in cars, their short legs mean they may need assistance getting in and out of vehicles. Their tendency to overheat requires careful management during warm weather travel, and their strong attachment to family means they may experience stress when left in boarding facilities, making pet-friendly accommodations preferable when possible.

The Basset Hound's health profile reflects both the benefits and challenges of their unique physical structure and genetic heritage. While generally hardy dogs with lifespans averaging 12-13 years, their distinctive anatomy predisposes them to certain health conditions that potential owners should understand and prepare to manage throughout the dog's life.

The breed's most significant health concerns stem from their elongated spine and shortened legs, which create structural stresses that can lead to various orthopedic issues. Understanding these predispositions allows owners to take preventive measures and seek early intervention when problems arise, significantly improving quality of life and potentially extending healthy lifespan.

Obesity represents one of the most serious and preventable health threats to Basset Hounds. Their food-motivated nature, combined with relatively low exercise requirements and efficient metabolism, makes weight gain a constant concern. Excess weight exacerbates virtually every other health condition the breed faces, particularly back problems, joint stress, and cardiovascular issues. Maintaining optimal body weight through careful diet management and appropriate exercise is crucial for overall health and longevity.

Regular veterinary care should include weight monitoring, body condition scoring, and nutritional counseling to help owners maintain their dog's optimal weight throughout their life. Many Basset Hounds benefit from measured meals rather than free-feeding, and treats should be given judiciously and counted as part of daily caloric intake.

The breed's famous long ears, while essential to their scenting function, create a warm, moist environment that can promote bacterial and yeast infections. Regular ear cleaning and inspection are essential parts of Basset Hound care, and owners should learn to recognize early signs of ear problems such as odor, discharge, excessive scratching, or head shaking. Professional ear cleaning may be necessary for dogs prone to chronic ear issues.

Eye health requires attention due to the breed's prominent eyes and loose facial skin. The visible third eyelid (nictitating membrane) is normal in Basset Hounds and should not cause concern, but owners should watch for signs of irritation, excessive tearing, or changes in appearance. Some Basset Hounds may develop entropion (inward rolling eyelids) or ectropion (outward rolling eyelids), conditions that may require surgical correction if they cause chronic irritation.

Skin health can be challenging in Basset Hounds due to their skin folds and tendency toward allergies. The wrinkles around their face and neck can trap moisture and debris, leading to skin fold dermatitis if not properly cleaned and dried regularly. Environmental allergies are common in the breed and may manifest as skin irritation, excessive scratching, or recurrent ear infections. Working with a veterinarian to identify and manage allergens can significantly improve quality of life.

Cardiovascular health monitoring becomes increasingly important as Basset Hounds age, with some dogs developing heart murmurs or other cardiac conditions. Regular veterinary examinations should include cardiac auscultation, and any detected murmurs should be evaluated by a veterinary cardiologist to determine their significance and appropriate management.

Preventive care for Basset Hounds should emphasize maintaining healthy body weight, providing appropriate exercise that doesn't stress the spine, and establishing regular grooming routines that include ear cleaning and skin fold maintenance. Owners should learn to recognize early signs of back problems, including reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or changes in gait, and seek immediate veterinary attention for any concerning symptoms.

Environmental modifications can significantly benefit Basset Hound health and comfort. Ramps or steps to help dogs access furniture or vehicles reduce stress on their spine and joints. Non-slip surfaces help prevent falls that could injure their back, and elevated food and water bowls can reduce neck strain during eating and drinking.

Working with veterinarians familiar with the breed's specific needs is highly recommended, as Basset Hounds may require different approaches to anesthesia due to their airway anatomy, different pain management strategies due to their stoic nature, and specialized understanding of their normal variations versus pathological conditions.

If you're looking to adopt a Basset Hound, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Basset Hounds waiting for their forever homes.