Basset, Hush Puppy
Overview
The basset's long, heavy body and short legs make it easy to follow on foot and give it an edge in dense cover. The basset hound has heavier bone, in proportion to its total size, than any other breed. Its thick, tight coat protects it from brambles without becoming caught in them. It is speculated that its long ears may stir up ground scent, and the wrinkles trap the scent around the face. The large muzzle gives ample room for the olfactory apparatus. Such room would not be available in a miniature dog; only a large dog with shortened legs can combine the short height with large muzzle size. The basset's movement is smooth and powerful; it tends to move with nose to the ground.
The basset hound is among the most good-natured and easygoing of breeds. It is amiable with dogs, other pets and children, although children must be cautioned not to put strain on its back with their games. It is calm inside, but it needs regular exercise to keep fit. It prefers to investigate slowly, and loves to sniff and trail. It is a talented and determined tracker, not easily dissuaded from its course. Because of this, it may get on a trail and follow it until it becomes lost. It tends to be stubborn and slow-moving. It has a loud bay that it uses when excited on the trail.
| Size | Medium |
| Height | Male: 12-15 inches (30-38 cm)Female: 11-14 inches (28-36 cm) |
| Weight | Male: 50-65 pounds (23-29 kg)Female: 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Colors | Black and Tan Brown Gray Red Tricolor White |
| Origin | France |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
The Basset Hound will do okay in an apartment. They are very inactive indoors but outdoors they will run for hours in play if given the chance. They will do okay without a yard, but should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play to keep healthy and trim. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable dog breed for kids. It is also friendly toward other pets and friendly toward strangers. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Basset hounds do not require much exercise, but they tend to get excited and energetic once taken outdoors. They should be taken for short walks or allowed to play in the yard. Basset Hounds can live happily in an apartment. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: Basset hounds must be trained with consistency and patience. You should make the process active and engaging to keep them interested. Basset Hounds may forget to obey when a snack reward is not present. The Basset Hound is known for being difficult to house break. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
The oily Basset coat gives the dog a “houndy” odor. Some people like it, some people loathe it. If you’re a loather, you can bathe your Basset weekly to reduce the smell, but it will never completely go away. The rest is basic care. Trim his nails as needed, usually every few weeks, and brush his teeth for good overall health and fresh breath. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: The Basset has a short coat that requires daily care because it sheds heavily. Brush it with a rubber curry brush daily if you want to keep all the loose hair under control. The brush removes dead hairs that would otherwise end up on your floor, furniture and clothing. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |