Basset Hound Facts

The Basset Hound is a friendly hunter with a unique physical appearance. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this low-to-the-ground breed. So here are the top Basset Hound facts and information.

An Appropriate Name

The name Basset Hound comes from the breed’s French origins and distinct body structure. In the French language, “basset” means “low-set”. That’s a very accurate description of this hound, which according to the breed standard should not exceed fourteen inches in height at the shoulder.

A Rabbit Hunter With Dwarfism

The Basset was developed for hunting hare and its short legs play a big role in this function. One of the Basset Hound facts most people don’t know is that its short legs are actually a result of dwarfism.

This trait was developed in the breed as it allowed the dog to keep his nose close to the ground without becoming tired while moving through dense underbrush. The short legs also meant that the dog would track game at a slower pace allowing the hunters to follow behind on foot instead of on horseback.

Basset Hound Facts

 

 

Big Dog On Short Legs

Don’t be deceived by the Basset’s lack of height. While it may be a short breed it’s not small. An adult Basset Hound can weigh up to seventy-five pounds. The Basset is in reality a big dog, just on short legs. And while the breed may be short it actually has the bone density of a much larger dog. In comparison to its size, the Basset is in fact heavier-boned than any other dog breed.

Hound Colors

Different from many other hunting dogs, the Basset can be any hound color. This means that it may be any combination of white, black, or brown. And brown can range in shade from a lemon color to dark red. The rarest of all Basset Hound colors is blue, as it is a recessive genetic trait.

Basset Hound Facts

 

 

The Drool Factor

If you are not willing to deal with drool and slobber the Basset may not be for you. The heavy lips known as flews are used to collect scent but they also happen to collect saliva and also water. These can create a mess, especially whenever the dog decides to shake its head, propelling drool around the room. While both sexes do drool, females usually have drier mouths than males.

Long Ears

One of the most distinct characteristics of the Basset is its extremely long ears. Basset Hound ears are so long in fact that when pulled forward they fold over the dog’s nose. They serve the important job of stirring up the scent when in the field.

Basset Hound Facts

 

 

Not Built For Swimming

The Basset Hound characteristics of being both heavy and also low to the ground mean that it’s not a good swimmer. Swimming pools should be properly fenced-in and secured as they can be a very real safety threat. If you do allow your Basset to swim it should be with supervision and a dog life jacket.

Another safe way for this breed to enjoy the water is by providing it with a dog swimming pool. By only partially filling up the pool, you can make that the water is shallow enough for it to lounge around and keep cool without any risks.

Known To Roam

This is a breed that is well-known for its tendency to escape the yard to follow a scent. The Basset may dig under a fence or chew through a leash to get out. And because the breed’s neck is wider than its head, it typically has little difficulty slipping out of its collar.

It’s not uncommon for a Basset Hound to roam surprisingly large distances following a scent trail and to never come back home. So for safety, backyards need to be kept secure with a fence, or even better dogs should be kept indoors when you’re not at home.

Basset Hound Facts

 

 

Naturally Oily Coat

The Basset Hound coat is naturally oily which helps it to repel dirt and water when hunting. While this is advantageous for the dog those oils give the breed a “doggy smell,” also sometimes called a “hound odor”. The oils in its coat can leave marks on walls and furniture as well.

Superb Nose

The scenting ability of the Basset Hound is known worldwide. This is due to the fact that it was crossed with the Bloodhound in the late 1800s by the British. Doing so not only improved the nose of the breed but also made it a bit bigger and healthier too.

Basset Hound Facts

 

 

Gentle Family Dog

The Basset makes a fabulous family dog. The friendly Basset Hound temperament is another result of its hunting heritage. As a pack hunter, it had to be able to get along well with others. In fact, this breed loves all members of its pack equally so it’s not a one-person dog. The Basset hound also gets along very well with children and other canines.

Bassets Bark 

One of the Basset Hound facts potential owners need to keep in mind when considering this breed is that it can be noisy. As a hunting dog, it was developed to have a loud bark that it used when chasing game. For this reason, it is not typically recommended for apartment living.

 

Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!

 

Dogs With Pointy Ears

Dogs With Pointy Ears

Let’s face it, there’s something special about the look of pointy-eared dogs. Luckily there are many breeds that have this appealing physical characteristic. So here are some of the best dogs with pointy ears and what to know about them. Corgi Both types of Corgi, the...

Small Dogs With Big Ears

Small Dogs With Big Ears

There are many reasons to own a small dog and there is a wide range of amazing breeds to choose from.  Many people find the ones with big ears to be particularly adorable. So here are some of the top small dogs with big ears to help you find the canine you’re looking...

Big Dogs With Pointy Ears

Big Dogs With Pointy Ears

One of the most amazing things about dogs is that they come in every shape, size, and color imaginable! If you're looking for a certain physical trait in a dog breed, you'll be sure to find several different breeds that fit the bill. Today, we're going to take a look...

Bull Terriers Are Ugly

Bull Terriers Are Ugly

Some people think that Bull Terriers are ugly, and others think that their egg-shaped head makes them look cute. Whatever your opinion of how Bull Terriers look, an indisputable fact is that the smart Bull Terrier is unique and quite distinct. Why Are Bull Terriers So...

Are Bull Terriers Smart?

Are Bull Terriers Smart?

Are Bull Terriers smart? Ask anyone who has ever had a Bull Terrier this question, and the resounding and unanimous answer will be a yes. They will also tell you that they are intelligent, funny, energetic, and stubborn. For all these reasons first-time pet owners or...

Dog Breeds That Drool

Dog Breeds That Drool

Heat, thirst, and hunger are the three things that can cause just about any dog to drool. Yet there are certain breeds that slobber much more than others. So before you decide on what type of canine you’d like to purchase, you’ll want to check out the following list...

Low-Energy Dog Breeds

Low-Energy Dog Breeds

When choosing a pet it is critical that you pick a breed with an energy level that matches your own. For many people, a low-energy dog is the best fit for their lifestyle. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to check out the top low-energy dog breeds listed here....

Lazy Dog Breeds

Lazy Dog Breeds

Not everyone wants a high-energy pet. Many potential owners would actually prefer to have a dog that has a lot less energy. So here are some of the top lazy dog breeds you’ll want to consider that work well with a more laid-back lifestyle. Chow Chow The Chow Chow is...

Brindle Dog Breeds

Brindle Dog Breeds

Brindle is one of the most unique coat color patterns that is only found in certain dog breeds, and a few other animals as well. A brindle coat looks similar in appearance to tiger stripes, but not as bold. That’s because it has streaks of color that are different...

Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds

Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds

Black and tan is arguably one of the most impressive coat colors a dog can have. And quite a few breeds can be found in this eye-catching color. However, not everyone is looking for a large or even medium-sized pet. So here are some of the top small black and tan...

Black Dog Breeds

Black Dog Breeds

Let’s face it there are adorable dogs in every coat color. Yet for many people, a black pooch is the cutest of them all. So here are the top black dog breeds you’ll want to check out when considering a new pet. German Shepherd The German Shepherd comes in a handful of...

Red Dog Breeds

Red Dog Breeds

Red dogs come in many different eye-catching shades. For example, depending on the specific breed its coat may be described as red wheaten, ruby, mahogany, or fox-red just to name a few. So for fans of this spectacular-looking coat color here are some of the top red...

White Dog Breeds

White Dog Breeds

Dog breeds come in a range of different colors. Many people consider white to be the most attractive coat color of all. And there are quite a few breeds that have an all-white or predominantly white coat. So here are some of the top white dog breeds you'll want to...

Spotted Dog Breeds

Spotted Dog Breeds

Depending on the breed a dog’s coat may come in many different patterns. Yet there is always something special however about a coat with spots. So here are some of the top spotted dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. Bluetick Coonhound The Bluetick Coonhound is...

Stubborn Small Dog Breeds

Stubborn Small Dog Breeds

There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration....

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This