Basset Hounds

The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog of the hound family. They are scent hounds, bred to hunt rabbits by scent. Their sense of smell for tracking is second only to that of the Bloodhound. The name Basset is derived from the French word bas, meaning "low", with the attenuating suffix -et, together meaning "rather low". Basset hounds are commonly brown and black and most often spotted, but also exist in a variety of colors.

The Basset Hound is seen as an especially friendly breed. For this reason they are an excellent pet for children. Many Bassets "forget" the training when a reward is not present. Bassets are known to be a vocal breed.

Basset Hound Dog Traits

Basset Hound Dog Breed

Basset Hound Dog Classification:

Basset Hounds are scent hounds, bred to hunt by scent.

Other Names: Basset, Hush Puppy

Basset Hound in Foreign Languages:

Finnish: bassetti
Hungarian: borzeb Vadászkutyával vadászik
Lithuanian: basset šuo
Slovenian: ostriž zasledovati

Origins: Basset Hounds are a direct descendent of the Bloodhound and has a nose that is almost as outstanding. The word "basset hound" comes from the French word meaning "bas" meaning low. Basset Hounds were first used to hunt rabbits and hares.

Description: Basset Hounds are thick dogs, stocky dogs with short legs, and long floppy ears and a prominent pointed nose. Basset Hounds have excess skin that hangs in folds.

Size: Basset Hounds weigh between 45–75 lbs, they stand 11 to 15 inches tall.

	weight	height
Male	55 - 75 lbs	12–15 inches tall
Female	45 - 65 lbs	11–14 inches tall

Coat: Basset Hounds have short, sleek coats, that are generally black, white and tan (tri-colour) or tan, lemon and white (bi-colour); but any recognized hound colour acceptable.

Disposition: Basset Hounds are laid back, sociable, and affectionate.

Type Dog: Basset Hounds are hunting dogs. They are scent hounds, bred to hunt by scent.

Litter Size: Basset Hounds give birth to litters of 6-8 puppies.

Behavior: Basset Hounds do not have a high energy level, but they do require moderate exercise because the breed has a propensity towards obesity. Basset Hounds are motivated by food, but are not necessarily easy to train.

Traits: Sweet, gentle, laid back dogs with an easy manner.

Country of Origin: Great Britain, France

Life Span: Basset Hound dogs typically live 11-12 years.

Club Recognitions: FCI, AKC, ANKC, CKC, KC (UK), NZKC, UKC

Basset Hound Dog