Basset Hound

A quick history lesson!

The Basset Hound’s history dates back to the 16th century where they were used for the distinctive sense of smell in hunting down prey.

Although they are not a very fast hunting breed their smelling techniques made up for it. For this reason they were used more for tracking rather than hunting. It wasn’t until 1875 that the breed was used to show in England and then later in the United States. The Basset Hounds is still a popluar breed for hunting out prey but are more likely to be used for search and rescue as their tracking capabilities excel in these circumstances.



This breed is a short dog but by no means a small dog as their height can be deceiving. Their ears are probably the most known trait for this breed as they are long and often drag along the ground as they walk. They are also more commonly seen with their tri-colour coat of tan, black and white or brown and white but they do come in various other colours.


The Basset hound is a naturally relaxed, calm and a very loyal breed. Although they are short in height and will often be considered very lazy dogs they are not, they love playing and enjoy walks on a regular basis. The Basset Hound is a very intelligent dog but is known to be quite stubborn and needs a firm and patient trainer when they are young but that should not put you off. As the Basset Hound as a very strong sense a small they are likely to spend many hours just sniffing around and will often get into things they shouldn’t but they also occupy themselves very easily by doing this.


Basset hounds will fit into almost any family, whether it is a quiet family or a family with small children, the Basset Hound is suitable. As they don’t have very high energy levels, a large garden would not be essential but don’t be deceived into thinking they don’t need exercise as they do. A daily walk and some playtime will keep this breed happy and healthy. The Basset Hound is also a great companion and will often be happy to sit in your company for hours, but they will not be happy without company for long periods of time and if they need your attention they are likely to bark or howl to get, even if it goes on for long periods of time. The Basset Hound is a stubborn breed so patience will be needed early on but it will pay off in the long run as they are very devoted and loyal pets. As their coats are very short, grooming would not be an issue this breed and regular light brushing would be all that would be required.



Basset hound puppies don’t look too much different to an adult, their ears can look very big on a puppies head and some may say ‘They’ll grow into them’ but they don’t always. Their legs will often look wrinkled and very short but they should look strong and sturdy. They should be clean and have a good puppy smell.

Good solid bodies, not too fat and not thin as this could indicate worms or incorrect feeding or both. They should look overall clean and be in good condition. Where they have been kept should also be clean. A bright clean and happy puppy with a wagging tail is best but don’t necessarily dismiss the pup that shy away as he may just be an observer.

On the side of caution – acquire your puppy from someone who is close by with a good reputation. It is always a good idea to view both parents and their registered papers. Inquire about their vaccinations and worming tablets but also get your own vet to look at the puppy once you have brought it home.



The Basset Hound is about 33 -38 com in height and usually weighs about 50 – 70 lbs. They have a smooth, short haired coat. Although most common is a tri-colour coat of black, tan and white, there are breeds of red and white, and lemon and white and some have been known as grey/blue but this is rare. They have long and low ears and there will bit loose skin around the neck and feet that looks like wrinkles. Their tails are long and stand with a slight curl in them. They will often have a sad expression on their faces but this does not reflect their mood as they are often very happy dogs. They are described as dogs with long bodies with short little legs and often called dwarfed canines.

• Flatulence (digestive system)
• Ear Infections (ears)
• Skin disorders (skin)
• Bone / joint problems (bones)
• Von Willebrand’s Disease (blood)
• Hereditary Basset Thrombopathy (blood)