With his nose (and two ears) to the ground, the Basset Hound is known for his ability to follow scents. When not on the trail of anything, this amiable character loves to laze around and hang out with his fellow dogs or dog parents. However, when a Basset Hound does pick up an interesting smell, he has an unrelenting focus to follow it — even into dangerous territory (unless, of course, a fence or leash gets in the way).
Size:
Male: 55-65 lbs. Female: 45-55 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
The Basset Hound is prone to obesity. You’ll need to take this wanna-be-couch-potato out daily (for approximately and hour) to remind him of how much he loves to go for a walk or play. When exercising, it’s imperative to keep your Basset on a leash or within a fenced-in area. If a member of this breed picks up an interesting scent, it’s off to the races. Bassets have no problem following a scent into oncoming traffic or travelling miles away from home.
Mess Factor:
Bassets do shed, but their drool can be a bigger problem—you’ll be amazed at how far it can fly and how much of it there is. Bassets also have oils in their skin that contribute to a distinctive “hound odor” that may (or may not) be a turn-off.
Barking and Volume:
If left alone for long periods of time, your Basset may howl, just to hear the sound of his own voice. On the path of an interesting scent, he may bay loudly. But in general, barking is not too much of an issue with this breed.
Training Requirements:
Bassets are intelligent, independent thinkers. Furthermore, if they’re following a scent, it’s hard to dissuade them from leaving it. For these reasons, you’ll need a lot of patience and repetition when training them. A puppy class is recommended and you may need to take it a step further.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: The breed is susceptible to foreleg lameness, hypothyroidism, bloat, OCD, entropion, otitis externa, intervertebral disc disease, glaucoma, vWD, CTP and gastric torsion. *A responsible breeder can minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is adequate.
Training:This dog will need training and it may take more than just a puppy class.
Grooming Requirements:
Weekly brushing will remove loose hair and dirt and help to cut down on “hound odor.” Your dog’s ears will also need some weekly attention. The Bassets long ears have a tendency to trap moisture and can become infected if not cleaned often.
Kid Compatibility:
The happy-go-lucky Basset loves people and is great with children. The breed is gentle and affectionate and makes an excellent family dog.
Longevity: 8-12 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
The Basset Hound is a pack animal and actually prefers being around other dogs and animals.
Friendliness: Towards People
Basset Hounds are friendly and love to be around their families every day. They will give strangers a sniff to see what they’re all about, but won’t act aggressively. This low-key dog is happiest with company.
BE PREPARED FOR: A house awash in drool, but a low-key, loving member of your family.
