Basset Hound breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Basset Hounds
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
What Are Basset Hounds?
Basset Hounds are iconic dogs known for their long ears, soulful eyes, and remarkable sense of smell. Originally bred in France as hunting dogs, their name "Basset" comes from the French word "bas," meaning "low," referring to their short legs and low-slung body.
Despite their hunting origins, Basset Hounds are gentle, laid-back, and sociable dogs, making them a favourite among families. Their sturdy build and distinctive appearance, including their long ears and loose, wrinkled skin, contribute to their charm and practicality in tracking scents.
Weight, height & life expectancy
Basset Hounds typically weigh between 20-29 kg and stand about 33-38 cm tall at the shoulder. They are known for their endurance rather than speed, making them excellent companions for leisurely walks.
Their average life expectancy is around 10-12 years.
What Is the Temperament of Basset Hounds?
Basset Hounds are known for their gentle, affectionate, and laid-back temperament. These dogs are incredibly loyal and thrive on companionship, making them wonderful family pets. Their friendly nature means they generally get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats, provided they are properly socialised.
Despite their relaxed demeanour, Basset Hounds are independent thinkers. Their keen sense of smell and hunting instincts can sometimes lead them to follow their nose, so keeping them in a secure area or on a lead during walks is essential.
They are not overly energetic but do enjoy regular walks and playtime. While Basset Hounds are not known for being particularly aggressive, they may be a little stubborn during training, so patience and positive reinforcement are key to success.
In addition to being great companions, their calm and tolerant nature makes them ideal for households of all sizes, whether urban or rural.
Our Basset Hound Community
"Jean is a lovely quirky character. She loves a stroll. She enjoys a good hill work or a meander. She is equally happy to stretch out in the sun with you. She absolutely loves company."
Jean's owner, Rebecca from Huddersfield
"Sidney is a typical basset hound, affectionate, stubborn, and adorable. She can be a little shy at first but after a few cuddles, there's no getting away from her love. Her walks are more waddles with the occasional zoomie between snuffles. She will steal your food and your heart."
Sidney's owner, Francesca from Aberdeen
What Kind of Exercise Do Basset Hounds Need?
Basset Hounds require a moderate amount of exercise, typically up to 1 hour a day, to keep them fit and healthy. Regular activity helps to prevent them from becoming overweight, a common issue in this breed due to their low energy levels and sturdy build.
These dogs enjoy a good play in the garden, but it’s important to ensure the area is secure. Their exceptional sense of smell, inherited from their hunting origins, can lead them to wander off if they catch an interesting scent.
Basset Hounds thrive on activities that engage their powerful noses. Interactive games, such as scent trails or treasure hunts in the garden or house, provide both physical and mental stimulation, keeping them entertained and satisfied. Incorporating games that challenge their natural instincts can help maintain their overall well-being and prevent boredom.
While they don’t need strenuous exercise, daily walks combined with sniffing opportunities and engaging activities are essential for their health and happiness.
Do Basset Hounds Need a Lot of Grooming?
Basset Hounds have a dense, smooth, short-haired coat that requires relatively low maintenance. Most Basset Hounds are tricolour, with brown, black, and white markings, though some can also be red and white.
Their coat does not require extensive grooming—regular brushing once a week is sufficient to reduce shedding and keep their fur looking tidy. A grooming mitt or bristle brush works well to remove loose hair and maintain their sleek coat.
However, their distinctive skin folds require special attention. These areas should be cleaned and kept dry to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to irritation or infection. Regular cleaning ensures your Basset Hound stays comfortable and healthy.
As with any dog, regular dental care is essential. Ideally, you should brush your Basset Hound’s teeth twice daily using a dog-specific toothpaste. If this isn’t possible, aim to brush as often as you can to maintain good oral health and prevent dental issues.
With minimal effort and a little extra care for their skin folds, Basset Hounds are easy to groom and maintain.
Are Basset Hounds Easy to Train?
Basset Hounds are generally easy to train, provided you approach their training with patience and consistency. While they are intelligent and eager to please, they can also be a bit stubborn and independent. At times, they may choose to do their own thing or even ignore commands, but with a calm and persistent approach, they can learn effectively.
To ensure success in training, it's essential to remain consistent with commands and reward them for their efforts. Positive reinforcement works best, but be mindful of the number of treats given during training. Basset Hounds are prone to weight gain, so using treats in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy weight while reinforcing good behaviour.
Their independent nature may mean they require a bit more time and effort compared to other breeds, but with dedication, Basset Hounds can become well-trained and responsive companions.
What Do Basset Hounds Eat?
Adult Basset Hounds should be fed two meals of high-quality dog food each day to meet their nutritional needs and maintain a healthy weight. Choosing a diet that suits their age, size, and activity level is essential for their overall health.
For Basset Hound puppies, a high-quality puppy food is recommended for the first 12 months. After this, they can gradually transition to adult food. Since every food brand and dog is different, consulting with your vet or food supplier can help you create the best feeding plan tailored to your puppy’s needs.
Basset Hounds are known for their tendency to gain weight, so portion control is vital. Treats should only make up a maximum of 10% of their daily calorie intake to prevent obesity. Be mindful of overfeeding, as excessive weight can lead to joint strain and other health issues.
It’s also important to avoid walking, playing, or travelling in the car immediately after meals. Basset Hounds are at risk of gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), or twisted stomach, which can be a life-threatening condition. Allow time for their food to digest before engaging in activities.
By providing a balanced diet and managing their portions, you can help keep your Basset Hound healthy and happy.
Are Basset Hounds Healthy?
Basset Hounds are generally a healthy breed, but their unique stature and extra skin can make them prone to certain health issues. Like any breed, they are also predisposed to specific conditions that owners should be aware of to provide the best care.
Common Health Concerns in Basset Hounds
Bones and Joints
- Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not fit properly at the hip joint, leading to discomfort and mobility issues.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Caused by improper alignment of the bones at the elbow joint, potentially resulting in pain and lameness.
- Intervertebral Degenerative Disc Disease: When the cushions between spinal vertebrae (discs) slip out of place, causing pain and, in severe cases, paralysis.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): An inflammatory condition where cartilage detaches from the bone, causing discomfort and joint issues.
Ears
- Ear Infections: Due to their long, droopy ears, Basset Hounds are prone to bacterial and yeast overgrowth, causing irritation, inflammation, and unpleasant odours.
Eyes
- Ectropion: The eyelid rolls outward, exposing the eye and increasing the risk of dryness and irritation.
- Entropion: The eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the eye, leading to discomfort.
- Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye that can damage vision if left untreated.
Gastrointestinal
- Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV): Commonly known as twisted stomach, this life-threatening condition traps gas and food in the stomach. Immediate veterinary attention is essential.
Skin
- Skin Infections: Basset Hounds’ skin folds can trap bacteria and yeast, leading to inflammation, irritation, and infections that can spread if untreated.
General Health Tips
To manage potential health risks, ensure regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and an appropriate exercise routine. Cleaning their ears and skin folds frequently can help prevent infections, while keeping them at a healthy weight reduces strain on their joints.
If you have any concerns about your Basset Hound’s health or are considering adopting one, consult your vet for tailored advice.
Vet top tip
Basset Hounds’ long ears and distinctive skin folds require extra care to keep them healthy. Regularly clean their ears with a vet-recommended solution to prevent infections and ensure their skin folds are kept clean and dry to avoid irritation or bacterial growth. Additionally, monitor their weight carefully, as excess weight can strain their joints and exacerbate conditions like hip dysplasia. By combining regular grooming, weight management, and routine vet check-ups, you can help your Basset Hound lead a happy and healthy life.
