Basset Hound Dog Breed One Of The Best Information
The basset hound breed was bred to hunt small game such as rabbits and is still used for this purpose in some parts of the United States. When they are not on the rabbit trail, they are constant family friends who love children.
Although they are purebred dogs, you can find Bassets in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. If this is the breed for you, choose to adopt if possible!
Adaptable, lovable, and gentle, these dogs will appeal even to novice pet parents who are new to the dog world. However, you will need to exercise at least moderately and feed your pup a proper diet,
Because their simple behavior can lead to weight gain and health problems, if you can keep your basset active, no matter how much they protest, you will have a loving companion that will stick around for many years to come.
Dogtime recommends this dog bed to give your medium-sized basset-hound a good night’s sleep. You should also pick up this squeaker rope toy to help keep your low-energy pup active!
Know About Basset Hound Size & Basic Chart:
| Height: Up to 14 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight: 50 to 65 pounds |
| Dog Breed Group: Hound Dogs |
| Life Span: 10 to 12 years |
| Origin: France |
| Group: Hound |
The History of Basset Hounds:
Basset hounds date back to the 1500s when the pre-revolutionary French used low-slung, heavy-bodied hounds to chase down rabbits. The word “bass” is French for “low”, corresponding to the size of basset-hounds.
In England in the 1800s many of the short, ball-tailed French Hounds and Basset-Hounds we know today. With the exception of height and leg structure, they are similar to St. Hubert’s hounds.
Bassets were selected not only for their excellent scenting skills but also because hunters could keep pace with slower-moving dogs. They not only hunted rabbits and hares but were sometimes used to track large wounded games.
In the United States, the Basset quickly progressed from hunting dogs to family pets. Familiar with the public through cartoons such as “Fred the Basset” and in commercials such as Hush Puppies™ shoes, the basset hound is now primarily a companion dog.
Getting to Know the Basset Hound’s Characteristics:
| Adaptability: 5 Points | Sensitivity Level: 4 Points | Affectionate With Family: 5 Points |
| Kid-Friendly: 5 Points | Size: 3 Points | Dog Friendly: 5 Points |
| Shedding: 4 Points | Groom: 5 Points | Easy To Train: 2 Points |
| Energy Level: 2 Points | Health: 1 Point | Intelligence: 4 Points |
| Wanderlust Potential: 5 Points | Exercise Needs: 2 Points | Intensity: 2 Points |
Everything You Need to Know About the Classic Basset Hound Appearance:
Don’t let the short legs fool you: Basset hounds are large dogs, weighing up to 65 pounds while rising only 15 inches off the ground. The heavy-boned breed has a long body with short legs; long, velvety floppy ears; a Sad face looking loving and sad; And a warning tail.
Their large paws and low-slung build give them excellent stability for maneuvering over rough terrain, ideal for employment as scent-tracking hounds. The basset hound’s skin is loose and elastic and covered in a short hard coat that can insulate it for hours in all weathers.
The Basset Hound Club of America (BHCA) recognizes five main color patterns: black, tan, and white tricolor; black and white; brown and white; red and white; Or lemon and white.
Basset hounds are probably one of the most recognizable breeds, and people love that fluffy, floppy face. But this look isn’t just meant to melt your heart. Almost every feature on the basset hound’s head helps the tracking dog on the trail: folds in the skin help trap scent, keeping it close to the dog’s nose.
The long ears stretch as they walk, spreading scent from the ground to their noses. And their trembling, slightly sunken big brown eyes? Well, it’s mostly just for the charm and, you know, vision.
Basset Hounds Getting to Know Their Unique Temperament:
Although they may not see it, basset hounds were bred for stamina and endurance on the trail. Their ability to pick up their scent and track for hours has made them a top choice for small-game hunters.
Although still often used as pack hounds, today’s basset hounds are just as content to be taken on long walks around the house all day. These happy puppies are just looking for a warm place to relax with their best friend—you.
If you prefer to be more active, scent games are a great way to use your basset hound’s best skills and engage them mentally.
Guy rescues a tiny basset hound puppy who'd been colored on with markers and gives her the gentlest bath 💛
— The Dodo (@dodo) January 26, 2023
Special thanks to The Asher House! Follow along on Instagram: https://t.co/xQoTOPqxDq & TikTok: https://t.co/4XA6nwx5jH. pic.twitter.com/9MtJhSM7nW
A Guide to Feeding Your Basset Hound BHCA Puppy:
According to the BHCA’s breed guidelines, basset hounds have an even temperament and are affectionate and loyal. Because they were bred as pack dogs, they get along well with other pets – dogs and cats alike – and love to have company at all times.
They can be very playful when socializing with other dogs. Their calm, gentle nature and all-around friendliness make them great for families with children, but don’t expect much by way of a watch or guard dog – basset hounds think everyone is their friend.
As with any breed, it is important to properly socialize your hound from a young age And, as with all breeds, it’s important to teach children how to properly interact with dogs and how to always supervise them when playing with any animal.
Training a basset hound can be a slow process. The key is to be calm, patient, and always positive—they’re smart, sensitive pups who don’t respond well to harsh treatment.
“They’re not stubborn; they’re hounds,” says Brian Kilcommons, founder of The Great Pets Resort, a boutique training facility in Connecticut. “You give them a trail to follow [and] they’re a rocket scientist. You go a long way with them, it’s a little more difficult. It can be done, but it takes a lot more work. The problem is I use the word ‘stubborn.’ Accompanying sets the tone for training.
Some things are more difficult with them than others because it is not their forte. Their specialty is following scents by putting their noses to the ground and baying.
Fun Facts about the Basset Hound’s Endearing Personality:
A mild-mannered basset is quieter than a sharp-tempered one can ever be. He gets along with everyone, including children and other animals, and the only thing that really excites him is a good scent. It is quiet indoors but alert enough to make an excellent watchdog.
Like all hounds, they can be stubborn when it comes to training and respond best to positive methods such as food rewards and food rewards. Bassets are pack dogs and will be unhappy if left alone all day. The company of another dog is helpful.
Like all dogs, basset hounds need early socialization – exposed to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences when they are young. Socialization helps ensure that your basset hound becomes a well-rounded dog.
Basset Hound Unique Aspects:
One of the most distinctive characteristics of the basset hound is its sleepy, lazy appearance. Their soulful eyes and long ears make them one of the most beloved breeds in the world. Bassets have a very high bone density and are a heavy breed compared to others. Unlike other dogs, Bassets will not make good swimmers due to their heavy musculoskeletal structure.
Basset hounds have short fur that is tan, brown, or black in color with a white-tipped tail which makes them easy to spot especially when they are hunting and sniffing under thickets. Unlike other breeds, Bassets howl instead of barking. Their loud cry comes in handy during hunting where they can easily communicate their location to their handler.
What You Should Know About the Basset Hound’s Health?
Basset hounds have a lifespan of 12-15 years. Like all breeds, basset hounds are susceptible to certain health conditions. The Basset Hound Club of America strongly recommends breeders test for homeopathy and complete a thorough ophthalmologist evaluation.
The club recommends additional testing for elbow and hip dysplasia, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, bleeding disorders, and luxating patella. Of course, not all basset hounds will suffer from serious health problems, but it is important to be aware of these common concerns when considering this breed.
It is also important to purchase all dogs from reputable breeders who will introduce you to the dog’s parents and siblings. If you are adopting a basset hound, ask the rescue for all available health histories.
Because of their generally lethargic nature, basset hounds are prone to obesity, says the BHCA. It is important to properly portion the basset hound’s diet and schedule a long daily exercise routine. Their floppy ears are also susceptible to infection. Follow your vet’s guidelines for proper and frequent ear evaluations.
Other Health issues:
In addition to ear problems, basset hounds can be prone to eye problems. The area below the eyeball can collect dirt and become clogged with mucus.
Basset Hounds are prone to yeast infections in the folds around the mouth, where saliva can collect without drying completely.
Overweight basset hounds develop several serious health problems, including bone and joint injuries, gastric dilatation volvulus, and paralysis.
Recent mortality and morbidity surveys of basset hounds are from the UK: the 1999 longevity survey with a small sample size of 10 dead dogs and the 2004 UK Kennel Club health survey with a large sample size of 142 dead dogs and 226 live dogs. See Mortality and Morbidity below.
How to Explain Basset Hound Morbidity?
In a 2004 UKC survey of 226 live basset hounds, the most common health problems reported by owners were dermatological (such as dermatitis), reproductive, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal. Basset hounds are also prone to epilepsy, glaucoma, luxating patella, homeopathy, von Willebrand disease, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
The Role of Genetics in Basset Hound Mortality:
The average lifespan (basset hound life expectancy) of a Basset Hound is around 10.3 years in France and 11.3 years in the UK, which is the typical life expectancy for purebred dogs and similar breeds in size to the Basset Hound. The oldest of 142 dead dogs in a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey was 16.7 years. In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey the leading causes of death were cancer (31%), old age (13%), gastric dilatation volvulus (11%), and cardiac (8%).
The Ultimate Cheat Sheet on Basset Hound Care:
Basset hounds are generally quiet dogs that do well in small homes and apartments. They should live indoors with their family, ideally with access to a yard. They are not suitable for outdoor exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Bassets are inactive indoors, happy to lie in the sun all day, but they will enjoy long, rambling walks with lots of sniffing time. Don’t be tempted to let your basset become a couch potato.
Bassets are prone to obesity, and excess weight can stress their joints.
When bassets are outside, they should be in a fenced yard or on a leash so they don’t wander off after interesting scents. Until he’s a year old, discourage your basset hound from jumping on furniture and going up and down stairs, which put extra stress on his front legs and back and can injure his joints.
You may need to help a basset of any age in and out of the car. He is not a very good jumper. Consider getting him a ramp or steps.
Bassets can be independent with a mind of their own. Train them with kindness and consistency using positive reinforcement that includes food rewards and praise.
A basset that is treated harshly will only become more stubborn and less willing to do your bidding. It’s your best bet to keep training interesting. Bassets will develop selective hearing if there is something more exciting to pay attention to.
Best Food For Basset Hounds And Puppys:
Basset Hound Grooming Tips & Tricks:
Basset hounds are characterized by short soft fur that is easy to groom. Because bassets are short in height, they get dirty quickly, especially when they are playing in the yard or going for long walks. They have to be bathed regularly to keep them clean.
Bassett’s paws are larger than those of any breed and are sensitive in nature. After their playtime outdoors, it would be advisable to clean their paws and clean the area between them with a dry cloth to reduce the chance of infection.
Basset ears are extremely sensitive and prone to infection. Long ears need to be cleaned regularly to avoid ear infections. Also, it will be important to brush the basset’s teeth regularly to avoid any dental infections and to always have fresh breath.
Training a Basset Hound: What You Should Know?
Training is a touchy subject when dealing with the basset hound breed. Gentle and patient training is the most effective form of training. Trainers must be consistent with the breed to achieve a well-behaved dog.
Bassets tend to be stubborn, listening to their noses rather than their masters. Owners need to make the training process lively and fun so that the basset can learn more efficiently.
About Basset Hound Puppies:
Basset Hound puppies are one of the cutest puppies. With their characteristic eyes and long ears, they are a bundle of energy and fun to play with. Like all puppies, basset puppies are highly active and love to explore their surroundings as they wander after new and exciting scents.
As a parent of basset puppies, you have to be careful that the basset doesn’t stray too far from home and keep it under supervision. You may face some difficulty leaving puppies alone for long periods of time as they tend to have separation anxiety and cry when left alone unsupervised.
For new puppies, crate training would be ideal as basset hounds are extremely stubborn by nature. House training a basset hound puppy will require a lot of diligence. Training a basset hound puppy will require gentle handling.
Fun Fact About Basset Hound:
- Be careful! Basset hounds have long enough ears that they pose a bit of a threat, especially to Dumbo-esque puppies.
- In 1956, Elvis Presley serenaded the basset hound with a special rendition of “Hound Dog” on “The Steve Allen Show.”
- Here comes the general: It’s widely rumored that after the American Revolution, General Marquis de Lafayette gifted George Washington basset hounds, but not everyone is sure they were actually bassets.
- As for Lafayette, the basset hound of the same name played a major role in the pursuit of the meddlesome butler in Disney’s The Aristocats.
Adopt or Buy Frome Basset Hound Rescue Groups (basset hound adoption):
- ABC (All Bassets Cherished) Basset Hound Rescue
- BROOD, Inc. (Basset Rescue of Old Dominion)
- Guardian Angel Basset Rescue, Inc.
- Basset Hound Rescue of So. California
- Suncoast Basset Rescue
- Arizona Basset Hound Rescue
- Helping Hands Basset Rescue
- 4 the Hounds Basset Rescue
How to Train Your Basset Hound?
Other Dog Breeds And Further Research:
FAQs About Basset Hound Dog Breed:
Is a Basset Hound a good family dog?
The basset hound is a friendly, easy-going dog. Originally hunting in packs, they generally get along well with other dogs and other pets. Bassets are people-oriented and get along well with children.
How much is a Basset Hound puppy in Australia?
Basset hounds cost around $600 depending on the supply of the dogs.
How much is a Basset Hound dog?
Average Price of a Basset Hound Basset Hound puppies typically cost between $600 and $1,200. However, depending on the pedigree, the price can shoot up to $2,000. Other factors such as age, location, and reputation of the breeder can also affect the price of a puppy.
What two breeds make a Basset Hound?
In the Fouilloux text dogs were used to hunt foxes and badgers. It is believed that the basset type originated as a mutation in the litter of Norman staghounds, descendants of the hounds of St. Hubert. These precursors were probably bred back to the St. Hubert hounds, among other derived French hounds.
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