Overview
| Other names | Basset, Hush Puppy, Big Nose, Long Ears |
|---|---|
| Coat | Smooth, short and close |
| Colors | Generally black, white and tan (tri-colour) or tan/lemon and white (bi-colour); but any recognized hound colour acceptable. |
Basset hounds have a long body based upon short legs which can provide cover in the countryside. Its coat is tight and sticks to its body, making it less vulnerable to briars, thistles, and low brush. This breed will move with its nose to the ground and does so in a powerful, purposeful manner.
Basset Hounds are a very good-natured breed and laid back in nature. Bassets get along well with pets and children, though caution must be exerted with kids to avoid strain on their back. Being a determined track dog, they love to sniff and investigate slowly, and they are not easily swayed from their course. The breed is also known for being stubborn and slow moving at times, along with a loud, distinct bay that they use when on the trail.
While they are not very protective, basset hounds are very easy to train and friendly while providing the ability to be an effective watchdog. To stay fit they must maintain an appropriate level of exercise, as their original function was for the purpose of tracking and trailing for rabbits and other animals. Largely used in hunting, this breed can make a great hunting companion or a lifelong pet.
Stats & Characteristics
| Country of origin | Great Britain, France |
|---|---|
| Height male | <14″ |
| Height female | <14″ |
| Weight male | 40-60 lbs |
| Weight female | 40-60 lbs |
| Popularity rank | 40 |
| Intelligence | |
| Intelligence rank | 71 |
| Shedding | |
| Grooming | Low maintenance |
| Energy level | Low energy |
| Exercise Needs | Low |
| Playfulness | Not very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Watchdog | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Good with dogs | Friendly |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Life span | 8 – 12 years |