Dog Breed:   BASSET HOUND

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A basset hound is a long, low-slung, heavy-boned scent hound bred for hunting small game, primarily rabbits. His long ears were developed to stir up ground scent for his large nose to smell. The folds of skin under his chin are useful for trapping and holding the scent. His large feet give him steadiness and his heavy bone makes him sturdy. His short legs enable the hunter to follow him apace on foot. The basset hound must have great lung capacity and a large, strong heart so that he can track game for long periods of time. Bassets are expected to have the stamina to hunt day after day in widely varying terrain, often with dense undergrowth and in all weather conditions. They are truly a breed for whom form follows function.

Bassets are considered a medium-sized breed, although a male basset can weigh over seventy pounds—as much as many large dogs! Females generally weight between forty and fifty pounds. The basset has a thick, dense coat that repels water effectively and needs little formal grooming, a blessing for both those who exhibit them in dog shows and those who love them as companions. They're an independent breed with a sense of humor, extraordinarily intelligent, affectionate, and entertaining

The strong, sturdy Basset Hound was developed in France. The word basset, in French means "low-slung".  The words seems to fit this breed very well. Although the French breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, most researchers believe that the breed descends from the now-extinct St. Hubert breed, also from France. While the breed did not arrive in England and North America until the late1800s and early 1900s, it has existed in Europe for approximately 300 years. The Basset makes an excellent tracker of hare, rabbit badger and more. This breed is able to move through dense bush with relative ease with his sleek coat and compact body. While he may appear to be a slow-mover at first glance, the Basset Hound is surprisingly athletic and can cover great distances in a short time. Families with a Basset need to provide him with regular exercise, such as a daily walk, to prevent him from becoming obese.

Some misunderstandings about Bassets:

• Many people believe that Basset Hounds are not very intelligent. The opposite of this is true. The myth probably extends from the fact that this breed is very independent and not normally motivated to please their humans. Owners find this a challenge and small bites of food treats work well in training.

• Another belief is that Bassets are small and weak. They can range up to about 70 lbs and are a strong solid dog.  Have you ever seen a Basset pull a child in a wagon or their leased owner while on a walk?

• It is often felt that Bassets do not shed. They do, in fact, shed quite a bit. Regular grooming is as important for this breed as well as any other.

• Think of Bassets and many people imagine a lazy dog.  In fact, the Basset Hound loves to run and frolic and explore.  They are naturally inquisitive and can become separated from their owners easily if taken on unleashed walks.  They do, in fact, love their owners, but are always looking for new and fascinating things to get into.  They are full of surprises!

Basic Facts About The Breed:

Height: Generally, the Bassets are in the range of 13.5" to 14". Ideally though, the height should not exceed 14", however heights up to 15" are accepted. Any height at the shoulder blades over 15" is a disqualification.

Weight: 40 - 60 lbs (17.9 - 26.8 kg)

Coat Type: While the skin of the dog may be loose and wrinkled, the actual coat is short, flat and sleek. Colors acceptable to this breed are the same as any acceptable Foxhound color: tan, black, or red, with white markings permissible. A weekly rub-down with a bristle brush or hound-mitt keeps the coat clean and healthy.

Temperament: The companionable Basset makes a loyal, gentle and devoted family pet.

Health Problems:  Be sure to keep the eyes and extra-long ears clean to prevent infection.

Special Interest: Like every other hound-dog, when the Basset catches an interesting scent, he is inclined to track as far and for as long as he can. For this reason, make sure his exercise area is well-maintained and gated. When in public areas, be sure your dog is obedient to your call and beckon, otherwise keep him leashed..

Classifications:
AKC: Group 2 - Hounds
CKC: Group 2 - Hounds
KC: Sporting - Hound Group
FCI: Group 6
ANKC: Group 4 - Hounds

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Sharon Ziegenhagen is an award-winning artist and is a member of the National Dog Museum Artists' Registry and exhibitor at the New York Dog Fanciers Club "Dog Art Competition".  Find out more about her.

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