Basset Hound Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog used

for companionship and hunting. This is a heavy boned dog

with a long body and short legs. The dog is 12 to 15

inches at the shoulder, and the bitch is 11 to 14 inches.

The Basset Hound weighs from 45 to 65 pounds, depending

on the dog's sex. The Basset Hound's coat is short and

comes in tan, red, black, brown, with white. The coat is

hard and protects the dog from injury during the hunt.

The Basset is not a fast moving dog, but is determined in

the hunt. The Basset will bay once the scent of the game

has been found. This dog will live from 10 to 12 years.

History: The origins of the Basset Hound are found in

15th century France with the Basset Artesien Normand,

which is still extant. This dog was crossed with the

Bloodhound and Artesien Normand to produce the Basset

Hound with which we are familiar today. The Basset was

developed to allow people hunting on foot to easily

follow the chase.

Temperament: The Basset Hound is almost universally known

for its sweet and gentle disposition. This is a calm,

thoughtful dog that makes an excellent companion. The

Basset loves to be around children, and all members of

its human family. This dog can be stubborn, however, and

training should be conducted in a positive manner. The

Basset Hound's easy nature, and origins as a pack dog,

allow it to get along with other household pets. It will

become lethargic if it becomes overweight.

Health Issues: One major health issue with the Basset

Hound is problems with its long back. As the dog ages,

these problems may show up, especially if the dog is

carrying too much weight. The ears can also prevent

challenges as they can be a breeding ground for very

serious infections. The Basset can also be affected by

bloat, or stomach torsion, which demands immediate

veterinary intervention to save the dog's life.

Grooming: Although the Basset Hound's coat is short and

needs only a weekly brushing, there are several other

important grooming issues that must be addressed with

this breed. The long ears can trap moisture and it is

easy for infections to begin there. The ears should be

checked on a daily basis and kept clean and dry.

Veterinary care should be given at the first sign of

infection. This breed drools quite a bit, so the mouth

and flews should be wiped after eating or drinking or

whenever needed to help prevent yeast infections. Check

the skin folds, also, to make sure they are dry and

clean.

Living Conditions: The Basset is a quiet dog inside, and

can be kept in an apartment as long as it receives some

daily exercise. This dog loves to be around its human

friends, and enjoys company of all kinds. It is not a dog

that should be left alone. As the Basset is a hunting

dog, it will give chase to any scent it detects while on

a walk. It is best kept on a leash when outside.

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