Dog breed · Hound

Basset Hound

A low, heavy scent hound with a wonderful nose and an unhurried attitude to almost everything.

Medium10–12 yearsFranceCan suit apartments

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Breed characteristics

Bred in France to trail hare slowly enough for hunters to follow on foot.

Long body on short legs, with loose skin, long ears and a mournful expression.

Two moderate walks with plenty of sniffing; avoid stairs and jumping.

Clean the long ears and skin folds weekly and keep the dog lean to protect joints and back.

Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two moderate walks with plenty of sniffing; avoid stairs and jumping. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Ear infections, Intervertebral disc disease, Glaucoma, Bloat, Elbow dysplasia), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime. Bloat has no screening test: learn its emergency signs and ask about prevention.
Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.

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