Basset Hound

Profile

The Basset Hound is a short-legged, scent hound breed known for its long ears and droopy skin. They are gentle, affectionate, and good with children, but can be stubborn and independent. They have a strong sense of smell and love to follow scents.

History

The Basset Hound is believed to have originated in France in the 16th century. They were bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares due to their excellent sense of smell and stamina. The breed’s name comes from the French word “bas,” meaning low, which refers to their short legs and low stature.

Highlights

Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive appearance, with short legs, long ears, and a droopy expression that gives them a unique and lovable look.

They are known for their excellent sense of smell, which makes them great tracking dogs. Basset Hounds were originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares.

Despite their hunting background, Basset Hounds are known for their gentle and friendly temperament. They are good with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets.

Basset Hounds are known for their laid-back and easygoing nature. They are not high-energy dogs and are content to lounge around the house, although they do enjoy daily walks to keep them healthy and happy.

Basset Hounds are known for their distinctive howling bark, which can be quite loud and melodious. This can be a charming trait for some owners, but may not be suitable for those living in close quarters or with noise restrictions.

Appearance

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog breed known for its long body, short legs, and droopy ears. They typically weigh between 40-65 pounds and stand around 14 inches tall at the shoulder.

Basset Hounds have a distinctive appearance with loose skin, a wrinkled face, and a sad expression. They have a dense, short coat that comes in a variety of colors including tricolor, lemon and white, and red and white.

Personality & Behaviour

The Basset Hound is known for its gentle and friendly personality. They are laid-back and easygoing, making them great companions for families and children. Basset Hounds are also known for their stubborn streak and can be a bit independent at times. They have a strong sense of smell and love to follow scents, which can sometimes lead them to wander off if not kept on a leash. Overall, Basset Hounds are loyal and loving dogs that enjoy spending time with their human family members.

Temperament

Compatibility with Children

Basset Hounds are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them great companions for children. They are patient and tolerant, making them well-suited for families with young kids.

Basset Hounds are also playful and enjoy being around people, making them a good match for active children who enjoy outdoor activities.

However, they can be stubborn at times, so consistent training and positive reinforcement are important when introducing them to children.

Overall, Basset Hounds can make loving and loyal pets for families with children.

Compatibility with other Pets

Basset Hounds are known to be friendly and sociable dogs, making them generally compatible with other pets in the household. They tend to get along well with other dogs, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age.

Basset Hounds may also do well with cats and other small animals, although their strong hunting instincts may cause them to chase smaller animals.

It is important to supervise interactions between a Basset Hound and smaller pets to ensure their safety and well-being.

Care Requirements

Basset Hounds require regular exercise to prevent obesity and maintain their health. Daily walks or playtime in a secure yard are recommended. They have a tendency to overeat, so monitoring their food intake is important.

Their floppy ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection. Regular grooming, including brushing their short coat and cleaning their wrinkles, is necessary to keep them clean and healthy.

Basset Hounds are social dogs that thrive on human companionship, so they should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Monthly Maintenance Cost

The Basset Hound is a lovable and low-maintenance breed, but they do require regular grooming, exercise, and veterinary care to stay healthy and happy.

Here are some estimated monthly maintenance costs for owning a Basset Hound:

• Food: $30-$50
• Grooming (brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning): $20-$40
• Veterinary care (vaccinations, flea/tick prevention): $50-$100
• Training classes or toys: $20-$30

Overall, you can expect to spend around $120-$220 per month on maintaining a Basset Hound.

Health

Basset Hounds are a lovable and affectionate dog breed known for their droopy ears and short legs. While they make great family pets, it is important to be aware of some common health issues that can affect this breed.

Some common health issues in Basset Hounds include:

1. Obesity: Basset Hounds are prone to obesity due to their love of food and low activity levels. It is important to monitor their diet and ensure they get enough exercise to prevent weight gain.

2. Ear Infections: Their long, droopy ears can trap moisture and debris, leading to ear infections. Regular cleaning and inspection of their ears can help prevent this issue.

3. Hip Dysplasia: Basset Hounds are at risk for hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that affects the hip joints. Providing a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent this condition.

To ensure the health and well-being of your Basset Hound, it is important to schedule regular veterinary check-ups, maintain a healthy diet, provide regular exercise, and keep their ears clean. By taking these precautions, you can help your Basset Hound live a long and healthy life.

Food & Feeding

Basset Hounds are known for their love of food, so it’s important to provide them with a balanced diet to keep them healthy and happy. The best food for a Basset Hound is high-quality dry dog food that is specifically formulated for large breeds.

Look for a brand that contains real meat as the first ingredient and avoid foods with fillers like corn and wheat.

When it comes to quantity, Basset Hounds are prone to obesity, so it’s important to monitor their food intake carefully. A typical adult Basset Hound should be fed around 2-3 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. Puppies may need more frequent feedings and smaller portions to support their growth and development.

Feeding timings are also important for Basset Hounds to prevent bloating and digestive issues. It’s recommended to feed your Basset Hound once in the morning and once in the evening, with at least 12 hours between meals.

Avoid feeding your Basset Hound immediately before or after exercise to prevent stomach upset. Remember to always provide fresh water for your Basset Hound to stay hydrated throughout the day.

In summary, here is a list of feeding guidelines for a Basset Hound:

• Feed high-quality dry dog food formulated for large breeds
• Feed 2-3 cups of food per day, divided into two meals
• Feed once in the morning and once in the evening, with at least 12 hours between meals
• Avoid feeding before or after exercise
• Provide fresh water at all times.

Fun Facts About Basset Hound

Basset Hounds have an incredible sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound. They were originally bred for hunting small game such as rabbits and hares.

Despite their short legs, Basset Hounds are surprisingly fast and agile. They have a strong hunting instinct and love to track scents, often following their noses without hesitation.

Basset Hounds are known for their long, droopy ears that help trap scents and funnel them towards their noses. Their loose skin and wrinkles also give them a unique and endearing appearance.

Basset Hounds are generally friendly and laid-back dogs, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, as well as their amusing antics.

The Basset Hound’s name comes from the French word “bas,” meaning low, which refers to their short stature. They are a relatively low-energy breed, but they still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Cost

The average cost of a Basset Hound ranges from $500 to $1,500. Prices can vary based on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. Adoption fees for Basset Hounds typically range from $50 to $300. Additional expenses for care and supplies should be considered.

• Reference

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions