The Basset Hound.

 What was the Basset Hound’s original purpose?

Basset Hounds are descended from the old St. Hubert hounds. Used to trail and drive game away, the basset hound has had such famous admirers as King Edward VII and Shakespeare. The basset was bred for bunting small game. The Basset’s long ears were developed to stir up and hold the scent for their strong nose to smell. The folds of skin under their chin, called the dewlap, held trap and hold the scent. Wrinkles about the head and face also aid in holding the scent. Their large feet make them steady and the heavy bones make them sturdy. With their short legs they are ideal for slow trailing which allows hunters to follow on foot. The basset is used primarily to hunt rabbit although they were first used on other small game such as pheasant. 

Does a Basset Hound make a good pet?

YES! The Basset Hound is one of the best dogs available for a family to love. They are extremely tolerant and loves everyone in the family equally. They are a very gentle, sweet, loyal and affectionate breed, although they are quite stubborn at times. They get along well with other pets of various species. They are not an aggressive watchdog but will learn to give a deep bark as a warning if praised when sounding off. Otherwise, they will accept visitors with a sniff and return to a favorite corner. The Basset Hound is a versatile pet who will play with children, make a skilled hunter, and sit by their owner’s side during quiet times. 

How big is the adult Basset Hound and how should they look?

The male Basset Hound at maturity usually weighs between 55 and 75 pounds, and stands 12-15 inches tall at the shoulder. They are a big dog on short legs. They female is usually about 10 pounds lighter. Make no mistake, the Basset grows to be a good sized dog, weighing more than most people expect, due to his heavy bone. As a young dog they need a consistent, firm (but not harsh) hand so they will learn not to jump on people. They are not lap dogs, even though they may think so. 

What is the Basset Hound’s temperament?

Basset Hounds have gentle dispositions. They were bred to be pack dogs and to get along with each other. This makes the male as friendly, mild, and easy to live with as the female. Males are not as aggressive as some other breeds of dogs, and they are usually not as prone to “marking” their territory. 

Do Bassets have any strange habits?

Some Bassets have a tendency to howl when left alone for long periods of time. They will also wander away from home if not kept in a securely locked area. The Basset is so good with kids, and often found in homes with children, great care must be taken to assure that gates cannot accidentally be left open when the kids enter and leave the fenced area. When a good scent reaches their nose, there is no telling where they will end up, and unfortunately, the Basset is not good at finding its way home.

Are Basset Hounds hard to groom?

They Basset Hound does not need fussy coat care due to his hard, short coat which repels dirt and water rather well. However, they should be brushed weekly to remove any loose hair or dirt. Bassets do not shed very much if brushed regularly. The Basset Hound needs a bath only 4-6 a year because a good rubdown with a coarse cloth will remove a great deal of dirt and bring a shine to the coat. Regular grooming helps to create a bond between owner and pet. Wipe out inside the ears once a week. The Basset’s heavy ear lather prevents loss of moisture from inside the ear and if not cleaned with a cotton ball or a medicated solution an infection can occur. Clean the ears outside also because they often go in the food bowl and pick up dirt of the ground. Trim the nails every 1-3 weeks to allow the dog to walk correctly on his feet and support his weight. 

Are Basset Hounds healthy dogs?

The Basset Hound claims excellent health. He is not prone to many hereditary weaknesses that are present in some other breeds. Many of the Basset’s problems can be caused by owner such as the dog becoming overweight leading to back and heart troubles. Physical fitness is as important to the Basset as is to humans. The Basset Hound enjoys running and leading an active life. Dogs raised in areas of the country where they can participate in the popular sport of field activities can enjoy good health.

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