Basset Hound is a peaceful and sweet little dog. These well behaved dogs tend to have an extremely tolerant and affectionate temperament. Therefore, they make for excellent family dog. They usually get along well with small children and other pets in the house.
Basset Hound Origin And Other Names
These short legged scent hounds are believed to have originated in France. They were originally used to hunt small animals like rabbits, hares, deer etc. But, gradually they gained popularity among nobles and aristocrats as affectionate companion dogs as well.
Physical Appearance
Basset Hound dog breed is typically characterized by a small yet heavy and muscular body. They have short legs. These dogs tend to have somewhat sad and droopy eyes and loose facial skin.
The eyes are generally brown to brown in color. Lighter colored eyes are usually accepted but not preferred. The large black nose has wide nostrils. The extremely long and low set ears are velvety in texture and hang in loose folds.
Color: These dogs are usually available in tricolors. Some common colors are black, brown, red, white and a variety of other colors.
Height: Both male as well as female Basset Hounds are generally 12 to 14 inches in height. Females can be an inch shorter than the males.
Weight: The average weight ranges between 50 to 65 pounds. The bitches usually weigh about 45 to 60 pounds.
Basset Hound Dog Breed Health Problems
Some common health problems in Basset hound breed dogs are Bloating, Blood Disorders, Hypothyroidism, Epilepsy, Entropion, Patellar Luxation, Arthritis, Intervertebral Disc Disease and other related problems.
They are also prone to skin problems, ear infections and eye diseases, particularly Glaucoma. These lazy dogs should not be fed excessively or else they can become obese.
Life Expectancy: The average lifespan of a Basset Hound is usually 10 to 12 years.
Litter Size: The average Basset Hound litter size is 8 to 10 puppies. Large litter size of about 15 puppies is also not uncommon in these dogs.
Basset Hound Dog Grooming Requirements
The short and dense hair coat of this dog breed requires minimal but regular brushing and combing, preferably with a firm bristle brush. The weather resistant hair coat is smooth in texture. Weekly brushing and combing of the coat is sufficient to keep the constant shedding coat in perfect condition.
These dogs do not require frequent bathing. Still, you can bathe your puppy 4 to 6 times in a year.
Besides, the ears of a Basset Hound should be cleaned on a weekly basis.
Moreover, check the folds on the skin from time to time and keep them clean. Other grooming activities like nail trimming, eye cleaning, teeth brushing etc should also be conducted on a more or less regular basis.
Basset Hound Dog Temperament
This dog breed is characterized by gentle, lazy, tolerant, friendly, loyal and loving temperament. These dogs can also be stubborn or strong willed at times. However, Basset Hound breed dogs are neither too timid nor too aggressive.
Plus, proper training and socialization can help control the erratic stubborn behavior in these dogs. These calm and peaceful dogs are usually not good at performing watchdog duties effectively as they are not very suspicious of strangers.
Pros and Cons
Basset Hounds have a tendency of excessive drooling. Plus, they tend to become fat and lazy, especially in old age. Therefore, resist the temptation of over feeding your beloved Basset Hound regardless of his naturally droopy expression.
Plus, make sure your dog receives plenty of physical as well as mental stimulation. These dogs are fairly inactive indoors and hence do not require large yards. Although, they should definitely be taken out for regular walks in order to provide sufficient opportunity for physical exercise.
However, when taking your dog out for a walk keep a close watch on him lest he wanders off to some other excursion following his keen sense of smelling.
