Group: The Basset Hound belongs to the hound/scenthound group.
Height: The average Basset Hound reaches 13 to 15 inches in height (33.02 to 38.1 cm).
Weight: The average Basset Hound weighs 40 to 65 pounds (18.14 to 29.5 kg).
Life Expectancy: The average Basset Hound lives 12 years.
Good with Kids? Yes
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Colors: The Basset Hound may come in any hound color, but is most commonly seen in tricolor (white with red and black markings).
Physical Traits: The Basset Hound is known for its sad, droopy eyes, long, floppy ears, short legs, and long back. The Basset Hound is a very hardy breed.
Hair Type: The Basset Hound's coat is short, dense, hard, shiny, and smooth. The Basset Hound sheds constantly.
Nicknames: The name 'Basset' is derived from the French word 'bas,' which means 'dwarf.' Some famous Basset Hounds include comic strip character Fred Basset, and the logo for ‘Hush Puppies’ brand shoes.
Bred For: The Basset Hound is said to have been bred for royalty, and were used to trail game. They were bred for sharp noses and short legs, which enabled them to squeeze in under thick foliage, and prevented them from running at fast speeds, which kept them from scaring game away or outrunning their human companions. They were especially suited for rabbit hunting, trailing deer, and game hunting.
Personality / Temperament: The Basset Hound is laid back, sociable, affectionate, and intelligent. This breed is docile, kind, loyal, and may be described as a one-person dog. At times the Basset Hound can be stubborn, but are always gentle and benign. Bassets love to explore, and thrive on company. The Basset Hound makes an excellent playmate for children, and gets along great with other dogs and children. The Basset Hound is very sociable, and doesn't like to be left alone. This breed also has a tendency to drool, which just adds to their character.
Origination: The Basset Hound was bred at St. Hubert’s Abbey in medieval France to trail game.
Maintenance / Special Needs: The Basset Hound needs to be brushed regularly while shedding, and it is very important to keep their ears clean as they are prone to infection. This breed is prone to obesity, which is dangerous because it can lead to back and skeletal problems. The Basset Hound's meals should be spread out as much as possible, and do not overfeed, to avoid obesity and GDV (bloat from excessive gas), which requires immediate attention. Training for the Basset Hound requires consistency and patience., and Basset Hounds may forget to obey if a snack or treat isn't present. Bassets are known for being somewhat difficult to housebreak. It may be necessary to apply eye drops if your Basset Hound's eyes become dry from their drooping lids. The Basset Hound also has a tendency to wander, so a close eye, or fence, is necessary outdoors. Basset Hounds don't require a whole lot of exercise, but they tend to get very excited when outdoors. They should be taken for short walks, and allowed to play in the yard. It is very important not to let children stress or sit on the Basset's back, or to pull their ears.
Identifying Traits: The Basset Hound is known for its sad, droopy eyes, pendulous, floppy ears, squat, long body, and short legs.
Ideal For: Basset Hounds are ideal for children and adults, family, are great with other pets, and are suitable for both city or country life. The Basset Hound does great in apartments if taken for short walks and allowed to play in the yard or park.
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