The Basset Hound is a charming and distinctive dog breed known for its long ears, droopy eyes, and short legs. They are a scent hound breed originally bred for tracking small game, particularly rabbits and hares. Basset Hounds have a gentle and laid-back temperament, making them wonderful family pets and companions.

Breed Group: Hound Group

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Basset Hounds are medium-sized dogs. They typically stand about 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm) tall at the shoulder.
• Weight: Adult Basset Hounds usually weigh between 40 to 65 pounds (18 to 29 kg).
• Coat: They have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including tri-color (black, white, and tan), red and white, and lemon and white.

Temperament:

• Gentle and Affectionate: Basset Hounds are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They enjoy being around their family members and can get along well with children and other pets.
• Laid-back and Calm: They have a relaxed and easygoing temperament, which makes them great companions for families and individuals seeking a calm and gentle dog.
• Scent-Oriented: Basset Hounds have an incredible sense of smell and are driven by their noses. They can easily follow scents, which is why they were historically used for tracking purposes.
• Stubborn but Sweet: Basset Hounds can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, but they respond well to positive reinforcement methods and patience.

Purpose:

• Basset Hounds were originally bred in France for hunting small game, particularly rabbits and hares. Their low height and strong sense of smell made them excellent at trailing scents on the ground.
• While some Basset Hounds are still used for hunting today, many are primarily kept as companion animals due to their friendly and easygoing nature.

Care and Grooming:

• Basset Hounds have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition.
• Due to their long ears, it's essential to check and clean their ears regularly to prevent ear infections.
• Basset Hounds have a tendency to gain weight, so it's crucial to monitor their diet and provide regular exercise to keep them at a healthy weight.

Health:

• Basset Hounds are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections (due to their droopy ears), and bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus).
• Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary check-ups are important for maintaining their overall health and well-being.

Basset Hounds make affectionate and devoted pets for families and individuals who can appreciate their unique appearance and loving personality. They are generally good with children and get along well with other pets if socialized properly. Early socialization, consistent training, and providing them with regular exercise are essential for raising a well-behaved and happy Basset Hound.