Basset Hound
Description: The Basset Hound is a short-legged scent hound with a long body. Its head is large with a rounded skull and a pronounced occiput. The plane of the muzzle is parallel to the top of the skull. The skin falls in folds on the head, wrinkle-like. Its ears are very long and meet at the top of the nose. The ears should fold and not appear flat.
The Basset Hound has large teeth that gives a scissors or level bite. The eyes normally appear droopy and sad. The hound appears kind and gentle. The Basset has a pronounced dewlap and its chest is deep, extending in the front of the forelegs. Its paws are big and has round hindquarters.
Dynamics: The Basset Hound fits into family life easily, as it enjoys human interaction and is sweet, gentle, and naturally well-behaved. It is very affectionate with people and friendly with children. It likes to play with food at times. It has a deep musical bark but does not bite. Like all scent hounds, it can be hard to get their attention when they catch an interesting smell. But generally, it is obedient and will do well with patient training.
Breed Group: Hound
Weight: males 50-65 lbs (23-29 kg), females 45-60 lbs (20-27 kg)
Height: males 12-15 inches (30-38 cm), females 11-14 inches (28-36 cm)
Color: The Basset comes in any color, but it is usually tricolor, or white with chestnut or sand-colored markings.
Country of Origin: The Basset Hound originated from France, where it got its name from the French word “bas” meaning “low.” Add to that the suffix “et,” it translates into the meaning “rather low.”
Activities: Exercises and daily walks are good for the Basset Hound, but be careful not to encourage it in jumping and stressing its front legs. The Basset Hound is always open to any play or game.
Grooming: There will not be much problem in grooming the Basset Hound as its coat is short and smooth. Shampoo only when necessary. Clean its ears and trim the toenails regularly.
Other Info: The Basset Hound’s life expectancy is about 10-12 years. Do not overfeed the Basset Hound because the extra weight will be a burden to the legs and spine. It is recommended that they be fed two to three small meals a day rather than one large one. The short legs and heavy long body may also contribute to a possible lameness and eventual paralysis if not careful.
The Basset Hound is okay living in an apartment since they are inactive indoors. But give them an opportunity to run outside and they will run for hours.