Basset Hound Dog Breed Information: Traits, Facts, Care & More
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Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are gentle, affectionate, and patient dogs known for their distinctive long ears, droopy eyes, and exceptional sense of smell—second only to the Bloodhound. Originally bred in France for hunting small game, these low-to-the-ground scent hounds excel at tracking thanks to their powerful noses and determined nature. Despite their hunting background, Basset Hounds are calm, easygoing companions who thrive on human company and form strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs. While they enjoy leisurely walks and sniffing adventures, Basset Hounds are not high-energy and are content with moderate exercise. Their stubborn streak means training requires patience and positive reinforcement. Regular grooming, especially ear cleaning, is essential to prevent infections. With their soulful expressions and loyal temperament, Basset Hounds bring warmth and charm to any household.
- Breed popularity ranking: 36 of 202
- Club: Basset Hound Club of America
- Population: 40,000+ (estimated in the U.S.)
- Price: $600 – $1,500
Weight
40–65 lbs
Height
13–15 inches
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed Group
Hound Group
Basset Hound Growth Chart
History and Origin
The Basset Hound, a distinctive and endearing scent hound, traces its roots back to France, where it was developed in the 16th century by crossing various French hounds. The breed’s name comes from the French word bas, meaning “low,” referring to its short legs and low-set body. Originally bred for hunting small game like rabbits and hares, the Basset Hound’s long ears, droopy skin, and powerful nose—second only to the Bloodhound—make it an exceptional tracker.
Basset Hounds were prized by hunters who needed a dog that could follow a trail slowly and steadily, allowing them to keep up on foot. Their calm temperament and strong scenting ability quickly made them popular both in the field and at home. The breed was eventually refined in England during the 19th century, where it gained recognition for its distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, the Basset Hound has since become a beloved companion in households around the world. Known for its affectionate nature, patience, and unique look, the breed remains equally cherished as a family pet and an occasional hunting partner.
Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body Build | Low, long, and heavy‑boned; deep chest with substantial substance and loose skin |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, and dense; weather‑resistant, lying close to the body |
| Coat Colors | Any hound color; common: tri‑color, black & tan, red & white, lemon & white, mahogany & white |
| Facial Markings | Domed skull with loose skin/wrinkles; long flews; pronounced stop; often darker mask around eyes |
| Chest Markings | Deep, broad brisket; may show white on chest in parti‑colored dogs |
| Tail | Set high, carried in a gentle curve above the back; often a white tip for visibility |
| Ears | Very long, set low, velvety; hang in folds and reach well past the nose when extended |
| Eyes | Dark brown; soft, sad expression; slightly prominent with loose lower lids |
| Nose | Large, black, with wide open nostrils; exceptional scenting ability |
| Feet | Large, heavy‑padded, slightly turned outward; strong nails for traction |
| Overall Expression | Gentle, patient, and dignified; calm demeanor with keen scent‑hound focus |
Basset Hound Characteristics
The further out a point is along a spoke, the stronger that trait is in the breed (on a scale of 1 to 10).
| Trait | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | 8 | Gentle, laid-back, and affectionate, Basset Hounds are known for their calm demeanor and even temperament. |
| Sociability & Friendliness | 7 | Generally friendly and good-natured with family and other pets, though can be a bit aloof with strangers. |
| Intelligence | 6 | Smart but often stubborn, their independent nature can make training a challenge. |
| Trainability | 5 | Requires patience and consistency; their strong scent drive can distract them during training sessions. |
| Energy Level | 4 | Low-energy dogs that enjoy leisurely walks and plenty of rest; not suited for high-intensity exercise. |
| Shedding Level | 6 | Moderate shedders with a short, dense coat that benefits from regular brushing. |
| Protective Instinct | 3 | Not highly protective, but may alert their owners with occasional barking. |
| Loyalty | 9 | Very devoted to their families, often forming strong bonds with their humans. |
| Barking Level | 7 | Vocal, with a distinctive baying howl that they use to communicate or when they catch an interesting scent. |
| Adaptability | 6 | Can adapt to various living environments, but may struggle in hot weather and with excessive stairs due to their build. |
Exercise & Activity Breakdown
Basset Hounds are calm, affectionate scent hounds with a steady, easygoing nature. While they aren’t as high-energy as some breeds, they still require daily walks and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight. Their strong sense of smell means they love to follow scents, so supervised outdoor time and sniff-based games are ideal.
- Puppy (0–12 months): At this stage, Basset Hound puppies are curious and eager to explore. Short walks, gentle play sessions, socialization, and basic training are important for building good habits. Activities like scent games, early interactive games, basic fetch, and gentle tug toys help develop focus and confidence without overexertion.
- Adult (1–6 years): Adult Basset Hounds benefit from daily walks, canine sports, supervised off-leash sniffing in secure areas, and mentally stimulating scent-based games. Puzzle feeders, hide-and-seek scent hunts, and obedience training help keep their minds engaged while supporting their natural tracking instincts.
- Senior (7+ years): As they age, Basset Hounds may slow down but still need regular, low-impact exercise to maintain mobility. Short, leisurely walks, gentle play, and light scent activities keep them physically comfortable and mentally engaged, while helping manage weight and joint health.
Basset Hound Daily Activity Breakdown
Nutrition
Basset Hounds need a balanced, high-quality diet that matches their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). As a medium-sized breed with a slower metabolism and a tendency toward weight gain, it’s important to feed them food formulated for medium-sized dogs that supports healthy weight management, joint health, and overall well-being.
Their diet should provide balanced nutrients to support skin and coat health, dental care, digestive health, and immune function. Because Basset Hounds are prone to obesity and related joint problems, portion control and nutrient-dense formulas are essential. Foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin can help protect their mobility and maintain cognitive health as they age. Read our “Best Basset Hound Dog Food Guide” to explore targeted nutrition tips and top food recommendations.
Nutritional Breakdown by Activity Level for Basset Hound
Common Health Issues
Most Basset Hounds are healthy, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Common health concerns include:
*BGDV: Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
*ED: Eye Disorders (Glaucoma, Cherry Eye)
*ALGY: Allergies
Recommended Health Tests for Basset Hounds:
Proactive health measures, attentive care, and regular veterinary visits can help ensure your Basset Hound lives a happy and healthy life as your loyal companion.
💡 Due to this breed’s high proclivity to health issues, we recommend getting pet insurance for financial protection against unexpected medical emergencies, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care without the burden of high out-of-pocket expenses. Check out our best pet insurance guide to find a suitable plan for your pet.
Care Requirements
| Grooming Task | Recommended Frequency | Importance | Tools Needed | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Weekly | Removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and keeps coat healthy | Slicker brush, grooming mitt | Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Dog Brush (View on Amazon) |
| Bathing | Every 4–6 weeks | Keeps coat clean, controls odor, and helps prevent skin issues | dog-safe shampoo, conditioner, towel | OUAI Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo (View on Amazon) |
| Nail Trimming | Every 3–4 weeks | Prevents discomfort, injury, and posture problems | dog nail clippers, nail grinder | Coastal Pet Safari Nail Clipper (View on Amazon) |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Prevents ear infections, especially important for long, floppy ears | Ear cleaning solution, cotton balls or pads (no Q-tips) | Zymox Ear Cleanser (View on Amazon) |
| Oral Care (Brushing Teeth) | Daily | Helps prevent dental disease, plaque buildup, and bad breath | Dog toothbrush, enzymatic toothpaste, dental chews | Greenies Dental Care Chews (View on Amazon) |
Basset Hound Dog Trainability
Basset Hounds are gentle, laid-back, and affectionate companion dogs. While they are intelligent, their independent nature and strong scent-driven instincts can make training a challenge. Consistent, patient training that uses clear, positive reinforcement techniques is essential. They respond well to praise, treats, and scent-based games—especially when training sessions are kept short, engaging, and tailored to their natural tracking abilities.
When compared to other breeds, Basset Hounds benefit from early socialization, firm yet gentle guidance, and training that taps into their love for scent work. Their steady temperament thrives in calm, encouraging environments where they can learn at their own pace. With patience, repetition, and reward-based methods, they develop into loyal, well-mannered companions.
Intelligence
According to canine psychologist Stanley Coren (author of The Intelligence of Dogs – View on Amazon), dog intelligence can be broken down into three types:
- Instinctive Intelligence – What a dog is bred to do (herding, guarding, retrieving).
- Adaptive Intelligence – A dog’s ability to solve problems and learn from the environment.
- Working & Obedience Intelligence – How quickly a dog learns commands and obeys them.
IQ Comparison
Basset Hounds are known for their strong scenting intelligence and independent thinking, developed through centuries of selective breeding for hunting and tracking. While they may not rank high in obedience-based IQ studies due to their stubborn streak and slower response to commands, their ability to follow a scent trail for miles showcases a different type of intelligence—one rooted in focus, persistence, and problem-solving. Their sharp noses and determination make them exceptional in scent work and tracking activities.
Basset Hounds perform best when training aligns with their natural instincts. While their independent nature can challenge novice owners, they excel with patient, reward-based methods and activities that engage their powerful sense of smell. Their unique intelligence allows them to solve scent-based problems with impressive accuracy, proving that “smart” comes in many forms beyond quick obedience.
Dog Breed Intelligence Comparison
Breeding
Basset Hounds are cherished for their gentle temperament, loyalty, and distinctive appearance. Like many purebred dogs, however, they can be prone to inherited health conditions such as ear infections, obesity, intervertebral disc disease, hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (GDV), eye disorders, skin infections, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and allergies. This makes responsible breeding essential. Ethical breeders should conduct thorough health screenings and genetic testing to help reduce the risk of passing on serious conditions. Proper spacing between litters is important to protect the health of both the dam and puppies, and only physically healthy, mentally stable Basset Hounds should be bred.
- Age: Basset Hounds should not be bred until they are fully mature—typically between 18 and 24 months of age.
- Litter size: A typical Basset Hound litter includes 6–8 puppies.
- Temperament: Breeding dogs should have sound temperaments—gentle, patient, and affectionate, without signs of aggression, extreme shyness, or nervousness.
Is The Basset Hound A Good Family Dog?
If the conditions below align with your lifestyle, personal preferences, and living situation, a Basset Hound could be a wonderful pet for your family. Otherwise, you may want to consider other breeds.
✅ = Ideal / Strong Match | ⚠️ = Needs Consideration | ❌ = Not Recommended
| Suitability | Category | Score (1–10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✅ | Family Bonding | 9 | Affectionate and loyal; enjoys spending time with all family members. |
| ✅ | Child Friendliness | 8 | Generally good with children; supervision recommended with very young kids due to their size and strength. |
| ✅ | Good With Other Pets | 8 | Usually sociable with other dogs and pets when socialized early. |
| ⚠️ | Maintenance Level | 6 | Short coat is low maintenance but requires regular ear cleaning and nail trimming. |
| ⚠️ | Monthly Expenses | 6 | Moderate costs for food, grooming, and healthcare. |
| ⚠️ | Home Size Compatibility | 7 | Adaptable to different home sizes if exercise needs are met. |
| ⚠️ | Lifestyle Match | 7 | Best for owners who enjoy leisurely walks and relaxed living. |
| ⚠️ | Trainability | 6 | Intelligent but can be stubborn; positive reinforcement works best. |
| ⚠️ | Alone Time Tolerance | 5 | May develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. |
| ⚠️ | Shedding & Drool Level | 7 | Moderate shedding; drools more than many breeds. |
| ❌ | Hypoallergenic | 1 | Not suitable for allergy sufferers due to shedding and dander. |
| ⚠️ | Protectiveness | 6 | Protective of family but generally friendly toward strangers. |
| ⚠️ | Mental Stimulation Needs | 6 | Enjoys scent games and moderate mental challenges. |
| ⚠️ | Climate Tolerance | 5 | Sensitive to extreme heat; moderate cold tolerance. |
| ⚠️ | Life Expectancy | 6 | Average lifespan of 10–12 years. |
| ⚠️ | Barking Level | 6 | Moderate barking, often to alert owners or express excitement. |
| ⚠️ | Travel Friendliness | 6 | Can travel if comfortable and given breaks for exercise and sniffing. |
| ⚠️ | Potty Training Ease | 6 | Can be slow to housetrain; consistent schedule and positive reinforcement help. |
Average Score: 6.44 / 10
Annual Cost of Ownership
| Category | Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Food & Treats | $600 – $900 |
| Routine Vet Care | $400 – $650 |
| Vaccinations & Preventatives | $250 – $450 |
| Pet Insurance | $350 – $650 |
| Grooming | $80 – $200 |
| Training & Socialization | $200 – $400 |
| Toys & Enrichment | $100 – $200 |
| Supplies (bed, bowls, leash, etc.) | $150 – $250 |
| Emergency Vet Fund (recommended) | $400 – $800 |
| Boarding or Pet Sitting | $300 – $500 |
$2,830 – $5,000
Best Places to Get A Basset Hound
Online marketplaces: For pre-screened, healthy puppies, Pawrade and PuppySpot are recommended resources, offering puppies from reputable U.S. breeders.
Rescue shelters: While Basset Hounds are rarely available at local shelters, opportunities can occasionally arise. Check your local animal shelters or dog rescue organizations for information. Online communities, such as Facebook groups, can also be helpful resources.
Breeders: Finding a reputable Basset Hound breeder can be challenging due to the complex nature of breeding this large, purebred working dog. Start by searching locally within your state. You may need to travel out of state if local options are unavailable. If purchasing from a breeder further away, consider the possibility of shipping the puppy if pickup is not an option. It’s essential to request medical records and health certifications for both parents. The American Basset Hound Association’s approved breeder list is a trusted resource for finding ethical breeders.
Avoid breeders who:
- Don’t provide health clearances for both parents
- Don’t allow visits to meet the dogs or see their living conditions
- Have frequent litters with no waiting list
- Emphasize appearance over health and temperament
Sources
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