Basset Hound
Basset Hound
Breed Highlight: |
Even-tempered, affectionate, and happy-go-lucky, Basset Hounds can be so much fun! They have short legs and a strong nose, and they will run after any scent they catch. |
Weight: |
Male: 25–34 kg Female: 20–29 kg |
Height: |
12–15 inches |
Life Expectancy: |
10 - 12 years |
Litter Size: |
6 to 8 puppies |
Breed Appearance: |
Basset Hounds are large, short, solid and long, with curved sabre tails held high over their long backs. This breed has a hanging skin structure. Its neck is wider than its head. |
History: |
The basset hounds date as far as the 1500s; a period when the revolutionary French were using the breed for hunting. The breed was known to hunt in packs and received significant mention by Shakespeare in his plays.It’s however, believed that the basset hound was a direct descendant of the Hubert Hound in the Ardennes forest in the 7th century. |
Originally: |
The Basset is a scent hound that was originally bred for the purpose of hunting hare. Their sense of smell and ability to ground-scent is second only to the Bloodhound. |
Currently Used As: |
Basset Hounds are often used as advertising logos and in movies. The Basset Hounds are very popular especially in the US and are currently ranked 28th most popular dog breed. |
Training: |
Basset Hounds are considered less intelligent than other breeds which make it a bit challenging to train them. It may take time and patience, but a well-trained basset is adorable and fun to be with. He’s independent and sometimes may ignore the owner’s commands especially when he’s outside and finds a favourite spot. For centuries, the dog breed was bred to work independently as hunters, following a scent without distraction. Therefore, much of its behaviour stems from its hunting origin. |
Health & Care: |
Compared to many other breeds, a basset is reasonably healthy. However, every dog breed, just like humans, may develop some genetic disorders. Bassets are prone to obesity and ear infections, but these can be controlled. |
Living Condition: |
Whether in a city, a suburb or a country, a basset will be comfortable, but his exercise and attention needs must be met. When busking outside, the basset hound needs to be confined in a fenced yard or be kept on a leash. If left on his own, he may follow his nose and wander off only to get lost. |
Exercise: |
Basset hounds have a low activity level compared to other breeds. But as a social dog, daily interactions and attention are needed from you.A walk or two a day is enough, but it has to be enough to achieve his exercise needs. |
Grooming: |
It’s a low maintenance dog, they said. However, the basset hound may need routine grooming to maintain excellent health. A weekly brushing session is vital as it helps to maintain healthy skin and will minimise shedding. The dog breed has hugely long but cute ears which need inspection and has to be cleaned to get rid of dirt as well as debris. |
Pros: |
Basset hounds have a personality that works with most family environments. Basset hounds are a short-haired dog breed, which means that they require a minimal amount of grooming. |
Cons: |
You must pay strict attention to their diet as Basset hounds love to eat. Basset hounds are stubborn in nature and a little hard to train. |