About Basset Hounds

One of the most distinctive-looking dog breeds in the world is the basset hound. In French, "basset" translates to "very low." The breed was made famous in North America for being the symbol of Hush Puppies Shoes since 1958. But it is not the breed for everyone. The dogs need special care and lots of attention for their short legs, long frame, trailing ears and nose for mischief. Basset hounds can live comfortably in a sprawling farm or a city apartment.

  1. History

    • Basset hounds were first bred in France in the late1500s, most likely derived from bloodhounds and foxhounds. They became very popular after dazzling audiences in a 1863 dog show. England became fascinated with them about 1870. They were not an American Kennel Club recognized breed until 1885.

    Function

    • Basset hounds were originally bred to be hunting dogs, having a nose powerful enough to find their prey and having legs short enough so they can enter the quarry's den. Their prey was usually badger, fox or rabbit. They now are bred primarily to be pets and for the show ring, but they still have the urge to hunt.

    Size

    • Basset hounds average about 40 to 50 pounds in weight and 13 to 15 inches in height (measured from the ground to the highest point of the shoulder). Purebred bassets can often be bigger or smaller than this, but these are the requirements for a show basset.

    Identification

    • These are long, low, thick-bodied dogs with a huge nose, long straight tail and dwarf legs. Their ears are long and often reach their chests. They are short-haired in many coat colors, including red and white, black, tan and white, and lemon and white. Their bellies, legs and tip of the tail are often white. They often have a sad or insulted expression.

    Warning

    • Special care must be taken to be sure the insides of the long ears are clean and dry. Because of their shape, they don't drain well. Turning them gently inside-out helps air-dry the ears naturally. Also, a fat basset is a sick basset and can't get around very well. Never buy a basset hound puppy from a pet store, as this supports inhumane puppy mills.

    Misconceptions

    • Although they look lazy, basset hounds need regular exercise or they will develop problem behaviors. A walk of a half-hour once or twice a day is essential.