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Basset Hound

Hound Group

Joyful, amiable, and loving

Basset Hound

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Breed Overview

Basset Hounds, with their distinctive long ears and droopy eyes, are known for their excellent sense of smell and calm temperament. They make great companions for families and individuals alike.

 

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium to Large
  • Height Up to 15 inches at the shoulder
  • Weight 40-65 pounds
  • Lifespan 10-12 years
  • Coat Short, smooth, and dense
  • Color Commonly tricolor (tan, black, and white), but also exists in two-color combinations such as lemon and white, red and white, or black and white
  • Grooming Low to moderate; regular brushing and occasional baths
  • Temperament Gentle, friendly, and laid-back; known for being affectionate and good-natured
  • Energy Level Moderate; enjoys leisurely walks and sniffing around
  • Intelligence Moderate
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate; needs regular exercise but is not overly energetic
  • Trainability Independent but can be trained with patience and consistency
  • Socialization Sociable with both people and other animals; benefits from early socialization
  • Grooming Low to moderate; regular brushing and occasional baths
  • Health Issues Prone-to-back problems due to their long spine, obesity, ear infections, and eye conditions
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent; known for being good with children
  • Suitable Living Space Adaptable to various living situations, but needs space for moderate exercise; not well-suited for living outdoors due to their sociable nature

About the Breed

Originally bred for hunting due to their keen sense of smell, Basset Hounds are excellent trackers. Despite their hunting background, they are more often found as companion animals today.

History of the Breed

The Basset Hound originated in France and descended from the old St. Hubert Hounds. They were bred to hunt small game and are known for their ability to follow a scent trail.

France

Fun Facts About the Basset Hound

Basset,Hound

Their name, "Basset," derives from the French word "bas," meaning low, reflecting their stature.

Cute,Funny,Dog,Portrait,With,Butterfly,Sitting,On,His,Nose.

They have one of the best senses of smell among all dog breeds, second only to the Bloodhound.

Basset,Hound,Flying,Ears,Stand,In,Studio

The breed’s appearance and friendly nature have made them popular in media and advertising.

    What To Expect When Caring For a Basset Hound

    Health

    Prone to back problems due to their long spine, obesity, ear infections, and eye conditions. Regular health check-ups and attention to their weight and diet are important.

    Grooming

    Requires regular brushing and occasional baths. Their coat is low-maintenance, but they do shed. Ear care is essential due to their long, floppy ears, which can trap moisture and lead to infections.

    Exercise

    Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and playtime are sufficient. They enjoy sniffing and exploring but should be kept on a leash or in a secure area due to their tracking instincts.

    Training

    Known for being somewhat stubborn, they respond best to patient, consistent training methods. Early obedience training and socialization are recommended.

    Nutrition

    A well-balanced diet appropriate for their size and activity level is necessary. Monitor their food intake to prevent obesity, a common issue in the breed.

    Caring for a Basset Hound requires understanding their unique physical and emotional needs. They thrive in environments where they can be part of the family and engage in moderate activities. With proper care and attention, Basset Hounds make loving, loyal, and delightful companions.

    Basset Hound Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

    The Basset Hound, with its distinctive appearance and charming personality, is generally a robust breed. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health conditions. Awareness of these conditions and conducting recommended tests can help in maintaining their health.

    Description: Due to their long spine and short legs, Basset Hounds are prone to back issues, including intervertebral disc disease.

    Recommended Test: Spinal Examination: Regular veterinary checks can help detect signs of spinal issues. Imaging tests like X-rays may be recommended if symptoms are observed.

    Description: Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture and lead to chronic ear infections.

    Recommended Test: Ear Checks: Regular cleaning and veterinary examinations of the ears to prevent and detect infections.

    Description: Their love for food and tendency to gain weight can lead to various health problems.

    Recommended Test: Weight Management: Regular check-ups to monitor their weight. Discussions with your vet about diet and exercise are important.

    Description: Including glaucoma and cherry eye.

    Recommended Test: Ophthalmic Evaluation: Eye exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for hereditary eye disorders.

    Description: A blood clotting disorder that is inherited in some Basset Hounds.

    Recommended Test: Blood Clotting Tests: If there's a family history of thrombophilia, blood tests may be recommended to detect clotting issues.

    Back Problems

    Description: Due to their long spine and short legs, Basset Hounds are prone to back issues, including intervertebral disc disease.

    Recommended Test: Spinal Examination: Regular veterinary checks can help detect signs of spinal issues. Imaging tests like X-rays may be recommended if symptoms are observed.

    Ear Infections

    Description: Their long, floppy ears can trap moisture and lead to chronic ear infections.

    Recommended Test: Ear Checks: Regular cleaning and veterinary examinations of the ears to prevent and detect infections.

    Obesity

    Description: Their love for food and tendency to gain weight can lead to various health problems.

    Recommended Test: Weight Management: Regular check-ups to monitor their weight. Discussions with your vet about diet and exercise are important.

    Eye Conditions

    Description: Including glaucoma and cherry eye.

    Recommended Test: Ophthalmic Evaluation: Eye exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist to screen for hereditary eye disorders.

    Thrombopathia

    Description: A blood clotting disorder that is inherited in some Basset Hounds.

    Recommended Test: Blood Clotting Tests: If there's a family history of thrombophilia, blood tests may be recommended to detect clotting issues.

    Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early, and prompt attention to any changes in your dog's behavior or appearance is key. With proper care and attention to health, Basset Hounds can lead happy, healthy lives as beloved members of their families.

    Prescription Medication Assistance for Basset Hounds

    The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

    How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Basset Hound?

    Caring for a Basset Hound involves various annual expenses, which can vary depending on factors such as your location, the individual dog’s needs, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a general breakdown of the annual costs for a Basset Hound:

    The cost of a Basset Hound puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite pricey. Always consider adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue.

    Initial Cost

    $500 - 1500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Basset Hound enthusiasts.

    Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

    Initial Cost

    $200 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

    Basset Hounds require high-quality dog food and treats for a medium to large breed

    Estimated Cost

    $500 - 1000

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Learn more about the best quality dog food for Basset Hounds.

    Basset Hounds require moderate grooming, including regular brushing to manage shedding and bathing as needed. Attention to ear cleaning and nail trimming is also essential for their health and comfort.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, and nail trimmers.

    Basset Hounds require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

    Estimate Cost

    $400 - 800

    Potential Additional Costs:

    The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

    Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 600

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Basset Hound's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

    Your Basset Hound will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

    Estimated Cost

    $100 - 300

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

    Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

    Estimated Cost

    $200 - 2500

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

    Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

    If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

    Estimated Cost

    Varies based on need

    Potential Additional Costs:

    Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

    A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

    Estimated Cost

    $50 - 200

    Total Estimated Annual Cost:

    $2250 - $7900

    It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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