Basset Hound

About the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is an unmistakable, low-slung scent hound famous for its long ears, droopy expression, and gentle, easygoing nature. Developed in France (the name comes from the French "bas," meaning "low"), the breed was bred to trail rabbits and hares, its short legs letting hunters follow on foot. Behind that mournful, wrinkled face is a nose second only to the Bloodhound — and one of the most laid-back, affectionate personalities in the dog world.

Bassets are calm, friendly, and famously stubborn. They bond warmly with their families, get along wonderfully with children and other pets, and are happiest ambling along a scent trail or napping on the couch. That powerful nose comes with a single-minded determination — once a Basset catches an interesting smell, the rest of the world tends to disappear. Patient, food-motivated training and a securely fenced yard go a long way with this lovable hound.

Breed at a Glance

Coat Colors

Basset Hounds most often wear classic hound coloring — tricolor (black, white, and tan) or lemon and white — but they also come in red and white, and other hound combinations. Their short, dense coat is easy to care for, though it sheds more than you might expect.

Temperament & Personality

Bassets are gentle, patient, and remarkably good-natured. They're devoted to their families and famously tolerant with children and other animals, making them wonderful, mellow companions. That said, they're scent hounds through and through: independent, single-minded on a trail, and cheerfully stubborn. They can also be quite vocal, with a distinctive deep bark and mournful howl.

• Gentle, easygoing, and affectionate — a mellow family companion.
• Wonderful with children and other pets; very tolerant.
• Independent and stubborn — patient, reward-based training works best.
• Vocal — known for a deep bark and a soulful howl or "bay."

Exercise & Enrichment Needs

Bassets are low-to-moderate energy, but they still need regular walks to stay healthy and manage their weight. Their nose, not their legs, is what really needs exercising.

• Daily walks — steady, moderate exercise keeps them fit and trim.
• Scent games & sniff walks — let them use that incredible nose; it's mentally tiring in the best way.
• Secure, leashed outings — on a scent, a Basset will wander off; fencing and a leash are essential.
• Weight management — keep them lean to protect their long back and joints.

Grooming & Care

The Basset's short coat is low-maintenance, but a few breed features need regular attention.

• Brush weekly — they shed a fair amount despite the short coat.
• Clean those long ears regularly — they trap moisture and are very prone to infection.
• Wipe facial and neck wrinkles and around the eyes to prevent irritation.
• Keep nails trimmed and maintain dental care; bathe as needed (they can be a bit "houndy").

Health Considerations

Bassets are lovable but, due to their unique build, prone to some specific health issues. A breeder who health-tests and careful weight management make a real difference.

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) — their long back and heavy body make spinal issues a real risk; keep them lean and limit jumping.
• Ear infections — very common due to the long, low-hanging ears; routine cleaning is essential.
• Bloat (gastric torsion) — as a deep-chested breed, feed measured meals and avoid hard activity right after eating.
• Eye conditions & obesity — droopy eyes (ectropion) and a strong tendency to gain weight both need monitoring.

Is a Basset Hound Right for You?

Basset Hounds are gentle, affectionate, low-key companions — ideal for those who want a mellow family dog and can manage their grooming, weight, and stubborn streak.

A Basset may be perfect if you…

• Want a calm, affectionate, kid- and pet-friendly companion.
• Enjoy leisurely sniff-walks and can commit to ear care and weight management.
• Have patience and humor for a lovable, stubborn scent hound.

Think twice if you…

• Want an off-leash-reliable dog or an athletic exercise partner.
• Can't tolerate some drool, shedding, howling, or a "houndy" odor.
• Aren't prepared for ear care, weight control, and potential back issues.