Dog Breed Guide: Basset Hound

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

Basset Hounds might be one of the most recognizable dog breeds. It's not just their short legs, stout bodies, drooping ears and wrinkled brows that attract attention—their telltale hound dog howl also turns heads.

Once bred as working dogs, the low riders have evolved into popular low-energy companions who are more apt to work on finding the perfect spot for a nap or begging for treats than tagging along on hunting trips. But that doesn't mean Basset Hounds aren't up for adventures.

The breed is known for being great with children and other pets and for willingly tagging along on errands, short walks or trips to the park (but will need a little help getting into the car).

History and origin of the Basset Hound breed

The breed originated in France and Belgium.¹ It's believed that Saint Hubert, who was known as the patron saint of the hunt, developed the breed.² The foundation for the breed dates back to 1561, when it was known as the St. Hubert Hound; it was refined over generations of breeding and came to be known as the Basset Hound, a breed that came to America in 1883.³

Basset Hounds were used as scent hounds, and their long ears were essential for the task of sniffing out rabbits and deer for hunters.¹ As their pendulous ears swing, scents are pushed toward their noses and the folds on their faces keep those scents close, which is ideal for tracking.⁴

Basset Hound characteristics

Short and stout define the breed. Although Basset Hounds can be up to 15 inches tall, the dogs can weigh between 40 and 65 pounds.¹

Basset Hounds are bicolored or tricolored; their coats can come in a range of colors, including:¹

• Black and white
• Black, brown and white
• Black, tan and white
• Black, white and tan
• Lemon and white
• Mahogany and white
• Red and white

It's not just their adorable appearance that makes Basset Hounds stand out from the pack. Their personalities are notable, too. The breed is known for clowning around, making their families laugh with their antics.²

Basset Hound health and life span

Basset Hounds have a life span of 12 to 13 years.¹ During their lifetime, the breed is prone to a few common health issues:

• Glaucoma. The progressive disease causes deterioration of the optic nerve and retinal cells, creating increased pressure in the eyes that can be painful.⁵
• Thrombopathia. In Basset Hounds diagnosed with this inherited bleeding disorder, the platelets are unable to clot.⁵
• Lafora disease. This inherited neurological disorder can cause jaw smacking, loss of balance, aggression, impaired vision, seizures, incontinence and panic attacks. It's diagnosed in middle-aged Basset Hounds. There is no cure, and the disease is fatal.⁵
• Ear infections. Their long ears also make Basset Hounds prone to ear infections.⁶ Ear infections occur when the lining of the ear gets inflamed, which can lead to foul odor, itchiness and pain.⁶ Left untreated, ear infections can spread deeper into the ear canal, causing serious damage.⁶ Keeping a Basset Hound's ears clean and dry can help prevent ear infections. Check their ears for changes in skin color or temperature, and sniff to check for odors that could be a sign of infection.⁷
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This degenerative disease causes the cushioning between the vertebrae to harden, forcing the vertebrae to bulge and compress. Basset Hounds are prone to IVDD, which can cause pain, decreased mobility and loss of bladder and bowel control.⁸

The Basset Hound as a family pet

Basset Hounds make excellent family pets. The breed is described as “highly social" and known for getting along well with adults, children and other pets—but the right environment is essential.⁴

These scent hounds are known for following their noses and should be in a fenced yard or on a leash when outdoors to prevent them from wandering off after an interesting scent.⁴ This vocal breed is also prone to howling at unfamiliar sights and sounds, which means Basset Hounds might not be well-suited to living in apartments.⁴

Although their energy levels are low, Basset Hounds still require regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Plan for daily walks or interactive games like fetch or hide-and-seek to ensure that Basset Hounds move their bodies and work their minds.¹ After a little exercise, Basset Hounds will happily curl up for a long nap.

Training and socialization

Since Basset Hounds are known for being outgoing and easily making friends with people and pets, socialization is often a breeze.¹ Training is a different matter. Basset Hounds were bred as working dogs that hunted on their own, and the breed retains this independent streak.¹ Training requires patience, consistency and lots of praise and rewards.¹

Grooming and care

Don't let their short, smooth coats fool you into thinking that Basset Hounds don't need regular grooming.¹ The breed sheds profusely, and weekly brushing with a soft brush and shedding tool can help remove excess hair and keep their coats looking shiny.¹

Basset Hounds also require occasional baths and regular nail trims to keep them looking and feeling great.¹

The bottom line

Bred for hunting, the Basset Hound has evolved from a working breed to an amiable companion. The low-energy breed gets along well with people and pets, but their independent streak means that training requires dedication and patience.

Although Basset Hounds might not make great running partners—and their frequent howling isn't suited to apartment living—these short-legged, long-eared dogs make ideal companions for pet parents who want affectionate companions for short walks and long cuddle sessions.

From Pets Best

Like all breeds, Basset Hounds require regular veterinary care. Pets Best insurance ensures that your pet is covered if emergencies arise, and the 24/7 Vet Helpline connects you with experts who can answer any questions you have about your dog.

Learn more about Choosing the Best Dog Breed for You and 5 Common Diseases in Small and Medium Dogs (like Basset Hounds) at Pets Best.

Sources/Citations

1. American Kennel Club. “Basset Hound." https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/basset-hound/. Accessed October 5, 2023.
2. Basset Hound Club of America. “History of the Basset Hound." https://basset-bhca.org/about-bassets/history-of-the-basset-hound/. Updated February 14, 2019. Accessed October 5, 2023.
3. American Kennel Club. “Basset Hound History." https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/basset-hound-history/. Published November 8, 2021. Accessed October 5, 2023.
4. Robins, M. “10 Things to Know About Basset Hounds." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-facts-about-basset-hounds/. Updated June 14, 2023. Accessed October 5, 2023.
5. Basset Hound Club of America. “Health & Research." https://basset-bhca.org/about-bassets/health-research/. Updated February 17, 2023. Accessed October 5, 2023.
6. Royal Veterinary College. “Now listen ear: New RVC research reveals the dog breeds most affected by ear infections." https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/news/now-listen-ear-new-rvc-research-reveals-the-dog-breeds-most-affected-by-ear-infections. Published September 7, 2021. Accessed October 5, 2023.
7. Small Door Veterinary. “Ear Infections in Dogs." https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/medical/ear-infections-dogs#prevention. Accessed October 5, 2023.
8. Carolina Veterinary Specialists. "Symptoms of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in Dogs & Available Treatments." https://www.matthews.carolinavet.com/site/pet-health-blog/2020/08/14/ivdd-intervertebral-disc-disease-in-dogs. Published August 14, 2020. Accessed October 17, 2023.