The Basset Hound originated in France and traces its ancestry to the St. Hubert Hound, one of the oldest scent hounds in Europe. The breed was developed during the 16th and 17th centuries by French hunters who sought a short-legged hound capable of tracking rabbits, hares, and other small game through dense undergrowth while allowing hunters to follow on foot. The word "Basset" comes from the French word bas, meaning "low," referring to the breed's distinctive short stature.

The breed later gained popularity in England, where further refinement enhanced its hunting abilities and gentle temperament. Today, the Basset Hound is recognised worldwide for its extraordinary sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound, along with its calm, affectionate nature and unmistakable appearance.

Today, the Basset Hound is admired as a loyal family companion, exceptional hunting dog, and world-class scent hound known for its outstanding tracking ability, patience, and gentle temperament.

If you want to learn about other scenthound breeds, check out our page "Different Scenthound Dog Breeds".

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Breed Appearance:

The Basset Hound is a long-bodied, low-set, and heavily boned dog with a powerful yet balanced build.

The breed commonly features:

• Large, domed head
• Long, deep muzzle
• Dark brown, droopy eyes
• Extremely long, low-set pendant ears
• Deep, broad chest
• Strong, muscular neck
• Short, sturdy limbs
• Long tail carried in a gentle upward curve

Its short, smooth coat is dense, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Common coat colours include:

• Tricolour (black, white, and tan)
• Lemon and white
• Red and white
• Mahogany and white
• Black and white

Nearly all recognised hound colour combinations are acceptable.

The breed's long ears, loose skin, and short legs enhance its ability to trap and follow scents close to the ground.

Breed Type – Scent Hound:

The Basset Hound is an intelligent, patient, and determined scent hound.

It is known for being:

• Loyal
• Gentle
• Friendly
• Patient
• Independent
• Affectionate

The breed forms strong bonds with its family and is generally excellent with children, strangers, and other dogs. It possesses an exceptional nose and a strong instinct to follow scents wherever they lead.

Training:

The Basset Hound is intelligent but can be stubborn due to its independent hunting instincts.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation
• Positive reinforcement methods
• Basic obedience training
• Reliable recall training
• Leash manners
• Scent-based enrichment activities

The breed excels in:

• Tracking
• Scent work
• Hunting
• Nose work
• Rally
• Companion activities

Short, rewarding training sessions with consistency help maintain the breed's attention and motivation.

Health & Care:

The Basset Hound is generally healthy but may be prone to several health concerns, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Obesity
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
• Glaucoma
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
• Ear Infections

Routine veterinary care, responsible breeding, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support long-term health.

Living Conditions:

The Basset Hound adapts well to a variety of living environments provided it receives regular exercise and family companionship.

Ideal environments include:

• Apartments with daily exercise
• Houses with secure yards
• Urban or suburban homes
• Families
• Seniors
• First-time dog owners willing to provide consistent training

The breed prefers living indoors with its family and should not be left alone for extended periods.

Exercise:

The Basset Hound has moderate exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Daily walks
• Scent-tracking games
• Interactive play
• Hiking
• Puzzle toys
• Mental enrichment activities

Although calm indoors, regular exercise is important to prevent obesity and maintain joint health.

Grooming:

The short coat requires low maintenance.

• Brushing once per week
• Occasional bathing
• Frequent ear cleaning
• Cleaning facial wrinkles when necessary
• Nail trimming
• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Loyal and affectionate family companion
• One of the world's best scent-tracking dogs
• Gentle and patient with children
• Friendly with strangers and other dogs
• Low grooming requirements
• Calm and easygoing indoors

Disadvantages:

• Can be stubborn and independent during training
• Strong scent drive may lead to wandering if off leash
• Prone to ear infections and back problems
• Susceptible to obesity if under-exercised
• Moderate shedding throughout the year
• Loud baying may not suit all households