Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is the most carefree and phlegmatic breed possible. They have fun and frolic whenever they want. You could call them the animators of the dog world. The sad look doesn’t stop the Basset Hound from pleasing and entertaining the family they live in. Their friendliness extends to absolutely everyone – children, other dogs, cats, and random strangers.

Breed Photos

Origin History

In the 17th century, French aristocrats unknowingly contributed to the creation of a new dog for that time. They decided not to overthink the breed’s name and combined two words: “bass” – low and “hound” – hound. The Basset Hound’s roots go back to France, but the breed was brought to perfection by British breeders. During the breed standards’ approval, the palm in the line “country of origin” was deservedly given to Great Britain.

Legend has it that a bitch of the now-extinct St. Hubert breed had abnormally short puppies with very long ears. The children liked them so much because of their unusual appearance that it was decided to keep them for fun. But when the puppies began to bring home truffles, the French Marquis de Lafayette realized that they were more than just dogs – they were a gold mine.

Thanks to Marquis, the Basset Hound came to the United States as a gift, not to anyone, but directly to George Washington. The President appreciated the gift, and the breed became one of the most popular in America and Europe at the speed of light.

The most famous admirer and admirer of the breed in France was Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte himself. On his orders, the Basset Hound breed sculptures were created, which he enjoyed strolling through his garden.

The Basset Hound breed is actively featured in movies and commercials. Both adults and children love cartoons, movies, and TV series with their participation. Its peculiar behavior, long ears to the floor, muzzle creases are very memorable for viewers, and they demand more!

Appearance

The Basset Hound breed is endowed by nature with a very expressive and memorable appearance. No one can pass by and not crumple such cute cheeks and long ears. Height at withers up to 36 cm, but at the same time, Basset Hound can weigh 30 pounds or more. Heavy bones and a large body on short legs gives the impression of a very clumsy and slow dog. But a little bit of muscle can be found if not to overfeed the dog and do activities every day. Basset Hound refers to a slow-growing breed; full size can reach more than a year and a half. Curved paws, long drooping ears, a sad look, and drooping lips are the Basset Hound’s calling card in the world of other breeds. The coat is short, smooth, and dense. Any color of hound is acceptable, but it is usually red and white or blushes black and white.

Character

The Basset Hound is the most carefree and phlegmatic breed possible. They have fun and frolic whenever they want. You could call them the animators of the dog world. The sad look doesn’t stop the Basset Hound from pleasing and entertaining the family they live in. Their friendliness extends to absolutely everyone – children, other dogs, cats, and random strangers. It is not a sin to call this breed of dog the perfect pet. Loyal and sociable, they are very afraid to be left alone. Prankster loves to eat, tries to grab food wherever you can – from the table, trash cans, in the street, and even don’t hesitate to steal treats from children’s hands. They are lousy guards, but they can raise the alarm at their discretion. They will react violently to unusual noises and loud barking, all of which they can do at night, as they love to howl and bark at their pleasure.

Care

Feels great, both in the city apartment and in the country house with a spacious yard. Due to the low height, Basset Hound always comes dirty after walks. Bathe this dog will have to bathe more often than other breeds. Basset Hounds are very messy and leave their drool everywhere they go. If you are a lover of cleanliness and order, this dog may provoke a nervous tic. Large and long ears deserve special attention and constant care. Inspect them, if not every day after a walk, then at least every other day. Another weak and problematic place of the Basset Hound is his eyes. Dirt and dust often get into the folds of sagging skin, and they need to be cleaned daily.

Training

The Basset Hound is a rather stubborn breed of dog. It will take a very long time to bring the commands to automatism. If this pet doesn’t want to practice today, you won’t be able to force it. Just have patience and do not offend your pet in any case. You can forget about successful training if the Basset Hound decided to offend you.

If the original purpose of buying a Basset Hound puppy is to use it only as a pet and no hunting is planned, don’t torture the animal. Knowledge of basic commands and obedience will be enough for the Basset Hound to feel comfortable in normal life.

Common Diseases

Basset Hounds are dogs with good health, adapting to any climate. Many diseases plague the animal. The body structure disposes to dislocated kneecaps, problems with the eyelids, eyelashes, and ears. Wandering lameness, intervertebral disc disease also does not bypass representatives of this breed. A vicious appetite leads to uncontrollable weight gain.

Nutrition

Basset Hounds need a strict, responsible owner who will be conscientious about their diets. They tend to be obese, which can lead to serious problems with their long backs. In any case, the dog’s diet should be based on meat – poultry, rabbit, beef, or pork – as well as grains, vegetables, and fruits. Up to the age of two months, puppies are fed about six meals a day. As they get older, the number of meals is reduced to two.