Basset Hounds & Children

Basset hounds are short, squatty dogs with long, droopy ears. Their non-threatening appearance, as well as other traits, makes them an ideal pet for kids. You need to consider all of the breed's characteristics, however, if you are thinking about adding a basset hound to your family.

  1. Size

    • Basset hounds stay fairly small. Shoulder heights average between 12 and 15 inches from the ground. Weights range from 45 to 75 pounds, although even the heavier hounds stay low to the ground. Kids can easily view and play with a dog of that size without usually being intimidated.

    Temperament

    • Tolerant, gentle and welcoming, basset hounds have an ideal temperament for kids. The hounds also generally get along with other pets, with strong packing and herding tendencies. Seldom aggressive, even when meeting strangers, basset hounds will instead greet visitors with a sniff. One drawback is stubbornness, which may frustrate children and adults.

    Walking

    • Daily walks are a must for a basset hound, but kids need to be careful if they are the ones holding the leash. Because of the basset hounds' penchant for hunting, they are likely to tug on their leashes or run after wildlife, like rabbits, and need a firm grip on their lead. Kids and adults walking the hounds should never take them off a leash, as they will instinctively follow their acute sense of smell wherever it leads them, making it easy for them to get lost.

    Warning

    • Children can inadvertently yet easily injure basset hounds, according to the Arizona Basset Rescue site. The hound's long body make the dog an attractive pet for kids to ride. A kid of any size sitting on the dog's lengthy back can easily injure or harm it.

    Considerations

    • Basset hounds require a lot of maintenance. Although they have short fur, they shed a lot and need daily brushing as well as a home with a quality vacuum cleaner, the Arizona Basset Rescue site says. Constant drooling is also a given with any basset hound, with the site advising owners to walk around with a drool rag when out and about with their hounds. Because of their messes, degree of maintenance and often constant need for attention, the site says basset hounds may not be the ideal choice for new parents who don't have additional time or energy to devote to a dog after caring for children.