History

The Basset Hound is mostly known as the Hush Puppy dog, however, this breed offers way more than just advertisements. This breed originated from the French as Basset is a French word for ‘low’, which suffices considering the petite height of the Basset Hound. 

It is believed that the Basset Hound is a descendant of the St Hubert Hound which just so happens to be related to the Bloodhounds of today. It is also believed that the Basset Hound breed is a mutation of the Norman Staghounds, also a St Hubert Hound descendant. 

Also, during 1789, much after the French Revolution, horseback hunting was reserved for kings and members of the elite, hence hunting on foot became really popular and alongside it, the demand for Basset Hounds

Temperament

This dog breed is too calm to ever display any form of aggression. This is one breed that practically gets along with everyone despite their species. From adults to children and other animals too, they’re very laid back and great companions too. 

This dog may be small but they’re very helpful and resourceful at home. They are always alert and for this, they can be used as watchdogs, but their stature diminishes their security abilities. The blood of the hound flows through the Basset Hound and just like its relatives, it is reluctant with training. 

Also, as scent dogs they can be very trail hungry hence they’re likely to go wandering whilst being led by scent. They are dogs that are mostly on their good behavior and they are good companions for kids. 

Environment

This dog breed adapts really well to apartment settings. They are more sensitive to weather conditions than other breeds because of their small stature. Getting your Basset Hound a blanket during the winter and enough air conditioning during the hot summers will definitely make them feel more comfortable.

Just like its ancestors, the Basset Hound is a scent tracker and they’re likely to follow scents and may end up getting lost hence it’s important to keep them on a leash when outdoors. You may also want to get a fence around your yard too. 

Exercise

Their pocket-friendly size, tiny legs, and feet make them really slow on the ground hence their exercise needs aren’t in any way demanding. The Basset Hound is fun and as lively as can be but they do not have a high energy level and as such high-intensity exercise activities aren’t for this breed. 

They are usually calm but can do with playfulness too. You may need to go to the park 2-3 times a week and try routines like fetch. They love sniffing random objects so they may stop a while before they retrieve the object. 

However, if you’re a working parent with little or no time for dog walking or any other dog exercises, this breed may just be the perfect fit.

Grooming

Their smooth but short hair has a way of repelling dirt and water. Their grooming is pretty simple. If cleaning their ears occasionally, wiping the drool they leave, and cleaning their facial wrinkles doesn’t sound like too much work, then you may just groom the Basset Hound yourself. 

With respect to baths, this breed hardly needs those except for rare occasions like wandering into something smelly. Also, their coats need to be brushed with a good brush. This breed sheds all year round but regular brushing prevents too much shedding. Regular ear cleaning is also advised because their ears reach the ground when they’re sniffing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Basset Hounds