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Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog of the hound family. They are scent hounds, bred to hunt by scent. Their sense of smell for tracking is second only to that of the Bloodhound. The name Basset derives from the French word "bas" meaning "low". There are no rules concerning color, but it is usually white with chestnit or sand-colored markings. They have smooth, short-haired coats, long low-set ears and powerful necks. Their tails are long and tapering and stand up with a curve. This breed is a large dog on short legs.
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| Interesting Facts: |
| Temperament: | This breed fits into family life very well with its sweet, gentle, devoted, well-behaved nature. They are affectionate with its master and frinedly with children. Housebreaking may be a challenge but will do well with gentle patinet training. It is recommended that since Bassets are "pack" animals, if the Basset must be left alone on a daily basis during the daytime while the family is away, a second pet in the family will keep a Basset out of "trouble". Bassets hate to be alone. |
| Size: | Height: 12-15 inches
WEight: 50-65 lbs. |
| Living Conditions: | They are a very inactive indoor dog, but can run around for hours if outdoors. They should be in a living space where they are able to exercise regularly. |
| Origin | Basset Hounds are an aristocratic breed of French lineage, a descendant of the St. Hubert's Hound, a dog similar to the present-day Bloodhound. Friars of St. Hubert's Abbey in medieval France desired a shorter-legged dog, capable of following a scent under brush in thick forests, as hunting was a classic sport of the time. Both Bassets and St. Hubert's Hounds were bred to trail, not kill, their game. Bassets were originally used to hunt rabbits and hare. The first application of the word \"Basset\" to a breed of dog can be traced to an illustrated text on hunting written by Fouilloux in 1585. |
| Health Issues: | Be careful not to overfeed these dogs since too much extra weight can be hard on their legs and spine. Could develop paralysis overtime because of short legs and a heavy, long body. |
| Exercise | The Basset Hound needs plenty of exercise to stay healthy and fit. You should discourage them from jumping and stressing on the front legs. |
| Grooming | Comb and brush the smooth, short-haired coat with a firm bristle brush and shampoo only when necessary. The breed is a constant shedder. Wipe under the ears every week and trim toenails regularly. |
| Life Expectancy: | About 10-12 years |
| Average Cost | Approx. $900-$1200 |
| Recognition: | |
| Where To Buy?: | Find a list of dog breeders >> |
| Pet Supplies: | Find the hottest dog supplies >> |
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The Basset Hound is a very calm and companionable breed, but they are often very stubborn. They are an especially loyal breed known for their pleasant disposition and emotions that sometimes seem almost human. Around strangers, Bassets are friendly and welcome the opportunity to make new friends. For this reason they are an excellent pet for families with children and other pets. Bassets might howl or bay rather than bark when they want something or to suggest that they think something is wrong. They also use a low, murmuring whine to get attention, which sounds to many owners as though their Bassets are "talking."
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